West Edinburgh

Community Councils and what they do

Edinburgh is divided into 43 Community Council areas. Community Councils are made up of volunteer members who are either nominated or elected every five years. The community councils are made up of local people and organisations who give up their free time to make West Edinburgh a better place. There are three in this area.

What is a Community Council?

A Community Council is a voluntary organisation set up by statute by the Local Authority and run by local residents to act on behalf of its area. As the most local tier of elected representation, Community Councils play an important role in local democracy.

Community Councils are comprised of people who care about their community and want to make it a better place to live.

As well as representing the community to the local authority, Community Councils facilitate a wide range of activities which promote the well-being of their communities. They bring local people together to help make things happen, and many Community Councils protect and promote the identity of their community. They advise, petition, influence and advocate numerous causes and cases of concern on behalf of local communities. Here are some examples of their work from across the country:

  • Carry out projects to enhance their community for all types of citizens – elderly, single mothers, minority groups, youths etc.
  • Issue community newsletters
  • Conduct local surveys
  • Campaign on local issues
  • Organise community events (such as local galas)

Community Councils are the strongest means of becoming involved with your local area. All local authorities in Scotland encourage citizens to become a member of their Community Council.

Map of Community Council Area

References