Before the Ballot: What Prospective Councillors Need to Know

Too many people step into elected office without a clear understanding of what the councillor role really involves, the workload, the emotional labour, the strategic responsibility, and the sheer breadth of services they’ll be accountable for.In this episode Matt sits down with sector leader, trainer, mentor, and long‑serving Kingston councillor Liz Green to explore her 3S model, Stewardship, Strategy, and Support, and why councils should start induction before someone even becomes a councillor.Together they unpack what early preparation could look like, how to set realistic expectations for candidates, and why better‑supported councillors lead to better outcomes for residents. This is a must‑listen for officers, political groups, prospective candidates, and anyone who cares about strengthening local democracy.