TIME and again I hear the same thing: “Why should I vote? They [the councillors] do what they want anyway.”

It’s such a sad reflection of the utter lack of trust in the council that I see and hear in my day-to-day work as a councillor in Three Elms, the ward I am elected to serve.

This is why It is vital that the system has to change, why this cabinet system, at the heart of this distrust must be discontinued and a more representative approach to local governance be put in place.

Only then, when everyone’s concern has a chance of being heard, when all 53 elected councillors have some input into the decision making, can we begin to restore the trust in the people, the trust of the voters in the council.

Yes, it will make decision making slower, but in my view, and I am sure that of many others, much more democratic, inclusive, and even more important, faithful to the wishes of the electorate.

How can this happen? Look carefully at the person asking for your vote. They are a person, not a political party. Do they inspire trust in you? Do you have the confidence they will truly represent your views to council?

Better still, are you so concerned things have got so bad, that like myself you might be prepared to stand for election. We desperately need a change to the way we are governed locally, and the only necessary qualification is faithfulness and honesty to the voter. Everything else is a learning process.

I am just an ordinary guy with a lot of passion for my community.

Becoming a councillor has opened my eyes to what can be achieved. It has transformed my life, given me a renewed sense of purpose. It makes me want to achieve. It could be the same for you.

In May 2015 you will be asked to vote for two elections at the same time, national elections, for your MP, and local elections. Two distinctly different votes. Two distinctly different needs.

CHARLES NICHOLLS Fayre Oaks Home Park, Hereford