FIRST STEP TO STAND

Welcome to the First Step to Stand workshop toolkit designed specifically for local authorities in Scotland! The aim of the First Step To Stand workshop is to demystify local democracy and encourage women to get involved, with a particular focus on considering standing for election to council in 2027 local elections.

Join us in making meaningful change!

SUPPORTING OUR FUTURE WOMEN COUNCILLORS

Over the past few years we have worked in collaboration with numerous local authorities to host in-person workshops encouraging women to consider a future in local Government. This toolkit represents the next step in this work giving councils all of the resources, information and advice they need to independently run a First Step To Stand workshop and open up dialogue with women in their communities about considering standing for election in the 2027 local elections.

The timeline towards the 2027 local elections in Scotland demonstrates that now is the time to be having conversations with women so that there is adequate time for them to engage in political parties, local campaigns and to prepare well in advance of 2027!

2025: First Step to Stand workshops happen across Scotland, women engage in local campaigns and join political parties. 2026: Women build their reputation and join Holyrood election campaigns. Selections take place for candidates for 2027 locals.

WORKSHOP OBJECTIVES

Women have increased knowledge about standing for political office
Women have increased confidence in themselves
Women have stronger networks of support
Women have increased knowledge in order to prepare them to make a decision about standing for office.

WE ARE HERE TO SUPPORT YOU

Elect Her wants to give you all the resources you need to independently run a successful workshop! In our First Step to Stand resource pack, we have a document that outlines everything you need to know. This includes preparing and planning for the workshop, inviting guest speakers, setting up registration, delivering the workshop, making sure the workshop is inclusive and accessible, and how to publicise the event!

We have also created a full-length facilitation guide designed to help you host the workshop, including timings, talking points, and agendas.

Finally, we have included an example of a “Speaker Briefing” that you can edit and use to provide your guest speakers with information about the workshop, and a fabulously designed slideshow that you can use during the workshop.

If you, or your local authority is interested in hosting a First Step to Stand workshop, all of the resources are available for download on our website here.

We want to know if you’re running a workshop so we can support and champion you through the process. Please email Rosie Trevill - rosie@elect-her.org.uk to keep us updated, we look forward to hearing from you soon!