Independent but Influential: The Power of Non-Party Politics in Local Government

In an era where public trust in political institutions is increasingly strained, the role of independent councillors in local government has never been more vital. From scandals in Westminster to polarising national debates, many residents feel disconnected from traditional party politics. Yet local government remains the closest tier of democracy to the people and independent councillors are uniquely positioned to bridge that gap. Free from party lines and national manifestos, independents offer a refreshing, community-first approach to leadership. They are not beholden to central directives or political allegiances, allowing them to focus solely on what matters most to their constituents. This freedom fosters a more authentic, responsive, and often courageous style of governance one that prioritises local needs over national narratives.

In this blog, we explore the power and potential of non-party politics in local government, drawing on insights from a recent conversation with Councillor Hannah Dalton, Leader of Epsom and Ewell Borough Council and a prominent voice in the Local Government Association’s Independent Group.

A Movement Rooted in Community

Unlike many politicians who enter public life through party structures, Hannah Dalton’s journey began with a deeply personal cause. Her local train station had 76 steps from street to platform, effectively dividing the community and excluding those with mobility challenges. Rather than accept the status quo, Hannah campaigned for step-free access a campaign that ultimately secured £8 million in investment and delivered a brand-new station.

“I got involved with my residents’ association and was asked to stand. I didn’t say yes straight away it took six or seven asks. But I’m proud of what we’ve achieved.”

Her story is emblematic of how independent councillors often emerge from grassroots activism. They are not career politicians, but community champions people who see a problem, take action, and then realise they can do even more from within the council chamber. This bottom-up approach to politics is what gives the independent movement its strength and credibility. In Hannah’s case, her work didn’t stop at infrastructure. She became a respected leader, known for her pragmatic decision-making and unwavering commitment to resident-led governance. Her success shows that when local people stand up for their communities, they can shape policy, influence investment, and lead change without needing a party badge.

Authenticity Over Allegiance

One of the defining strengths of independent councillors is their ability to act without the constraints of party politics. Unlike their party-affiliated counterparts, independents are not bound by national policy platforms, internal party dynamics, or the pressure to toe the party line. This freedom allows them to make decisions based solely on what they believe is right for their communities without compromise or political calculation.

“I don’t have a central party dictate telling me what I should or shouldn’t be thinking. I can focus on what’s right for my residents.” Cllr Hannah Dalton

This autonomy becomes especially valuable during contentious or complex issues, such as local government reorganisation (LGR). While party-affiliated councillors may find themselves navigating conflicting loyalties balancing personal convictions, party expectations, and constituent views independents are free to take a clear, principled stance. Their decisions are guided by local priorities, not national agendas.

Moreover, independents often serve as a moral compass within councils, unafraid to challenge groupthink or raise concerns that others might avoid for fear of political fallout. Their presence can help diversify debate, encourage transparency, and ensure that decisions are scrutinised from multiple perspectives. In a political climate where authenticity is increasingly valued by the public, independent councillors offer a model of leadership that is grounded, honest, and deeply connected to the communities they serve.

The Numbers Behind the Movement

While independent councillors may not dominate the headlines, their presence in local government is both significant and growing. As of October 2025, there are over 2,100 independent councillors across the UK. Though they remain a minority compared to the major parties, their influence is particularly notable in councils with no overall control, where independents often hold the balance of power. In the May 2025 local elections, independents gained 89 seats, a modest but meaningful increase that reflects steady momentum. Their success is often built on strong local reputations, community engagement, and a track record of action rather than party branding or national campaign machinery.

Public sentiment is also shifting. A recent poll found that 51% of voters would consider voting for an independent candidate, suggesting a growing appetite for non-party representation. However, only 26% have actually done so, highlighting a gap between interest and action. This may be due to limited visibility of independent candidates, lack of awareness about their platforms, or the enduring pull of party loyalty. Nevertheless, the data points to a clear opportunity: if independents can increase their visibility, build trust, and demonstrate impact, they have the potential to reshape local political landscapes in meaningful ways.

Challenges on the Campaign Trail

Despite their strengths, independent councillors face a range of structural and practical hurdles that can make standing for election and staying in office significantly more difficult than for their party-affiliated counterparts.

Funding and Resources

Without the backing of a national party, independents must rely on personal networks, community goodwill, and limited financial resources. There are no central campaign funds, no paid staff, and no ready-made leaflets or digital assets. Every aspect of the campaign from canvassing to printing is self-organised and often self-funded.

“We don’t have the kind of money and resources to run campaigns. But we’re in the heart of our communities, and our work speaks for itself.” Cllr Hannah Dalton

This grassroots approach can be powerful, but it also means that independent candidates must work harder to gain visibility and traction, especially in competitive wards.

Electoral Scale

Local government reorganisation (LGR) is reshaping the electoral map, often increasing the size of wards and reducing the number of councillors. This creates larger footprints for candidates to cover, making door-to-door campaigning more demanding and costly. For independents, who typically campaign with small teams, this can be a significant barrier to entry.

Visibility and Recognition

Party candidates benefit from brand recognition and national messaging. Independents, by contrast, must build their profile from scratch. Their visibility depends on sustained community engagement, local reputation, and word-of-mouth. While this can foster deep trust, it also means that new candidates may struggle to gain attention without a long-standing presence in the area.

These challenges are not insurmountable but they do require resilience, creativity, and a genuine commitment to public service. For many independents, their connection to the community and the impact of their work is what sustains them through the campaign trail and beyond.

Building Influence in a Party-Dominated Landscape

Influence in local government isn’t solely determined by numbers it’s shaped by relationships, credibility, and collaboration. Independent councillors may not have the weight of a party group behind them, but they often bring a unique ability to build bridges across political divides.

“You build influence by understanding where others are coming from. Often, councillors want the same things you just need to find common ground.” Cllr Hannah Dalton

Hannah’s experience working alongside party-affiliated colleagues on the District Councils’ Network illustrates how independents can lead and shape policy when they focus on shared goals. By engaging with others respectfully, listening actively, and championing resident-led priorities, independents can become trusted voices in the chamber.

Their independence can also be an asset in negotiations, allowing them to act as honest brokers in contentious debates. Without the pressure to conform to party positions, they can speak freely, ask difficult questions, and advocate for solutions that reflect the needs of their communities.

In councils where party politics dominate, this ability to operate outside the usual frameworks can be both refreshing and strategically powerful. It allows independents to influence outcomes not through numbers, but through integrity, insight, and collaboration.

Supporting the Independent Voice

Independent councillors may operate outside the traditional party system, but they are far from alone. The Local Government Association (LGA) Independent Group plays a vital role in supporting non-party councillors across England and Wales. This group provides tailored resources, peer mentoring, and strategic advice to help independents thrive in what can often be a complex and politically charged environment. One of its flagship initiatives is the “Be a Councillor” programme, which encourages people from all walks of life to consider standing for election. The programme offers practical guidance on campaigning, governance, and public engagement particularly valuable for those without prior political experience.

“We have member peers who will talk to you, and oodles of experience running campaigns. Just do it it’s one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done.” Cllr Hannah Dalton

The LGA Independent Group also advocates nationally for fair treatment of independents, pushing for reforms that make it easier to stand, campaign, and serve effectively. Their work ensures that independent voices are not only heard but respected within the wider local government ecosystem.

What Officers Need to Know

Local government officers play a crucial role in supporting elected members, but the dynamics can differ significantly when working with independents. Unlike party-affiliated councillors, independents may not have access to group briefings, legal support, or internal networks. This can leave them more exposed, especially when navigating complex or contentious issues.

Hannah Dalton urges officers to recognise these challenges and approach independent councillors with empathy and fairness.

“Sometimes just treat us with a bit of kindness. We don’t have the same access to resources, but we’re here for the same reason to serve our communities.”

Officers should also be mindful of unconscious bias in how they engage with different political groups. Ensuring equal access to information, support, and decision-making processes is essential for maintaining a healthy democratic environment one where all voices, regardless of affiliation, are valued. Ultimately, better political acumen within the officer corps can lead to stronger collaboration, more inclusive governance, and better outcomes for residents.

Conclusion: A Vital Voice in Local Democracy

Independent councillors bring authenticity, courage, and community focus to local government. They are often the first to speak up, the last to back down, and the most deeply embedded in the lives of the people they serve. As the sector evolves through reorganisation, financial pressures, and shifting public expectations their voices must not be lost in the noise of national politics.

Whether you're a resident considering standing, an officer working with members, or a voter looking for change remember that independence isn’t just a status. It’s a strength.