You know your community. Becoming a District or Parish Councillor is a chance to help shape its future. We are inviting local residents to stand as independent representatives in May 2027, with a particular focus on Arun District Council and local Parish Councils.
Every single seat is up for election on existing boundaries.
Decisions on overdevelopment, sewage, flood defences, high streets, and council tax are made right here.
We welcome potential candidates from across Sussex. Our main focus for May 2027 is Arun District Council, alongside Town and Parish Councils in our towns and villages.
By May we will have an active presence on Arun District Council and a very strong say in what happens now. We are fielding a full slate of local champions across Arun, and we need ordinary, passionate residents to step up.
Sussex First is a brand-new party. When we launch fully in January it will be a big bang, with full-scale social media and press coverage so everyone in Sussex will have heard about us.
We are bringing independent, dedicated local people together to give residents a stronger voice.
You can help build a more responsive, community-led approach to local politics.
YOUR VOICE AT THE TABLE
WHY BEING A COUNCILLOR IS AN INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCE
Being an independent councillor with Sussex First is an opportunity to listen, learn and contribute at the heart of your community.
HELP TURN LOCAL PRIORITIES INTO ACTION
Helping your street resolve a problem, questioning a planning proposal or securing action from a utility company can make a real difference. As a councillor, you can bring residents’ concerns to the table and help shape better decisions.
Direct Authority
A FOCUSED 2-YEAR TERM (LGR TRANSITION)
Because of upcoming Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) moving toward new unitary councils, the May 2027 intake is expected to serve a focused 2-year transitional term. It is a rare, exciting window to step up during a historic shake-up, protect local assets, and make a huge impact without committing to a 4-year term.
Historic Shake-Up
LGR WINDOW
ALLOWANCES & FULL EXPENSE COVER
District Councillors receive a statutory Basic Allowance (currently paid monthly) plus other allowances so working people and parents are never priced out. Parish roles are voluntary with travel/expense support.
Fair Support For All
PRACTICAL SUPPORT AT EVERY STEP
New to local politics? We will help you get started.
You bring the local passion and common sense, our experienced team of serving Parish, District, and County Councillors provides all the support you'll need.
HELP WITH THE PAPERWORK
We walk you through every single Electoral Commission form, nomination signature, and legal requirement step by step so nothing feels daunting.
Step-by-step guidance
DONE-FOR-YOU CAMPAIGNING
Professionally designed leaflets, ward branding, social media videos, and digital graphics, all created by our media team so you look polished from day one.
Your ward, our branding
Full media team backing
SUPPLIED BY US
A LOCAL TEAM ALONGSIDE YOU
We are recruiting volunteers, campaigners and fellow candidates to meet residents alongside you and build connections across your ward.
Active street team
MENTORING IN THE CHAMBER
Once elected, you won't be thrown in at the deep end. Our serving councillors mentor you all the way on council rules, planning committees, and how to get things done.
Serving councillor mentorship
OUR VALUES: DO YOU ALIGN WITH SUSSEX FIRST?
Your local experience matters.
Vote With Your Conscience:With no party whips, you can use your independent judgement and vote in the best interests of your residents.
Champion Your Community:Listen to local people, ask clear questions and seek practical answers from developers, water companies and councils.
Infrastructure Before Concrete:Demand proper roads, GP surgeries, schools, and drainage before approving thousands of new homes.
Plain English & Integrity:Honest answers, visible presence in your ward, and total loyalty to the neighbours who elected you.
Join local residents stepping forward for May 2027
LET’S TALK ABOUT STANDING IN YOUR AREA
STAND IN MAY 2027 — EXPRESSION OF INTEREST
Candidate selection for Arun District and Parish wards is happening right now. Filling this in puts you under zero obligation—it simply sets up an informal, friendly coffee or phone chat with our team to answer your questions.