From helping with local environmental projects and community galas to campaigning and raising awareness about local issues, the role of a community council member is a varied and rewarding one.

Residents can also attend regular public meetings and hear about what’s happening in their local area and the important issues being discussed.

Sameeha Rehman joined her local community council aged just 17 and she’s passionate about the positive difference it makes.

“It’s a fantastic way to meet other residents and to take part in local democracy and to stand up for issues that matter to the local community," she said.

“Our group plays a key role in the planning process and we supported the creation of the miners memorial, produced a heritage walking guide and are very much at the heart of our community.

“It’s really worthwhile and I’d strongly encourage people to sign up and take part in developing your local area and making it better for everyone.”

2023 marks the 50th anniversary of the legislation which brought community councils into existence.

Councillor Jim Logue, Leader of North Lanarkshire Council, said: “Community councils represent local people and are an important part of local democracy.

“The council works closely with community councils on issues that are important to them and values the role they play in working alongside us and other agencies to deliver better communities.

“During the last 50 years, community councils across Scotland have made important contributions to their communities by engaging with local people on the issues which matter to them and working to change their area for the better.”

Alice Morton of Stepps and District community council added: “Our community council is made up of enthusiastic committed residents who care about where we live, and they freely give up their time, skills, expertise and knowledge to make where we live a better place.”

In terms of the legislation applying to community councils, community council members are required to stand down every four years, with the right to be nominated for a further term of office. 

The council is now embarking on the election process and actively seeking nominations from local residents and current members to either be elected or remain within their local community council. 

The nomination process commences on Monday, 14 August 2023 and concludes no later than 4pm on Monday, 4 September 2023.

There are currently 38 established community councils in North Lanarkshire and each plays a very important role in representing local people’s views about services to them and other groups with community involvement. However, there is the opportunity for a further 42 community councils to be established.

Further details on your local community council, the election process, including how to become (or to remain) a community councillor, or for information on how to establish a community council are available in the community council section of our website.

Alternatively, please email the People Team at peopleteam@northlan.gov.uk