Frequently Asked Questions

What are Community Councils?

Under the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 all Councils are legally obliged to set up Community Councils. These are legally recognised groups of local people with an interest in their community.

The size of each Community Council varies, some are as small as 5 and others as large as 20 people.

What do Community Councils do?

The main role of Community Councils is to represent their local area, to consult with local residents and pass their views on to public sector organisations such as Scottish Borders Council, NHS Borders and the Scottish Executive, also major utility services such as Scottish Water.

Scottish Borders Council has a responsibility to consult with Community Councils about how local services are delivered and inform them of any changes to services or any issues that may affect their local area.

Many Councillors attend their local Community Council meetings providing a good link between Scottish Borders Council and the community.

Each Community Council is a member of the Scottish Borders Community Councils' Network (SBCCN) which allows them to share good ideas and communicate easily with one another.

SBCCN organises an annual conference, seminars to discuss areas of concern and training, on matters such as committee procedures and how to respond to planning applications.

How do I find out about my local Community Council?

For details, or if you are not sure in which Community Council area you live in, contact Scottish Borders Council at the address overleaf.

Some Community Councils have their own website.

Do I have to be a Community Councillor to attend a meeting?

No. All meetings are open to the public and are advertised locally.

How many Community Councils are there?

There are 66 Community Councils active in the Scottish Borders.

How are Community Councils funded?

Community Councils receive an annual grant from Scottish Borders Council. They can also apply for different grants to carry out specific projects and activities in their area as well as hold their own fund raising events.

For example: A Community Council may wish to produce a local information booklet or provide benches at a local beauty spot. Advice and assistance about how to apply for grants is available from Scottish Borders Council.

How do I join my Community Council?

If you wish to become a Community Councillor you must be on the Electoral Role of the Community Council area. Becoming a temporary member to work on a specific project or to fill a vacancy may also be an option.

Each Community Council must hold an election at least once every five years giving new members the opportunity to join. Your local Community Council will be able to give you information about when their elections are held.

All Community Councils welcome local residents becoming involved.

How often do Community Councils meet?

Each Community Council decides how often it will meet. This may vary from four times a year to every month.

Do Community Councillors get paid?

No, members give their time voluntarily.

However, the Secretary and Treasurer may receive a small payment for the work they do, from Community Council funds.

Expenses for carrying out the work of the Community Council can be paid to members from its funds.

Still have questions?

Please contact Scottish Borders Council at the address below for more information about Community Councils.

Clare Malster
Community Engagement Officer
Scottish Borders Council
Newtown St Boswells
MELROSE TD6 0SA

Telephone: (direct line): 01835 826626
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