District Council to recruit Independent Person

Stratford-on-Avon District Council is looking to appoint an 'Independent Person' to help councillors throughout the District keep to the highest of standards.

Under the provisions of the Localism Act 2011, the District Council must appoint an 'Independent Person' to assist the Monitoring Officer in assessing complaints of alleged misconduct amongst its elected members and around 560 Town and Parish councillors within the District.

Phil Grafton, Head Governance and Democracy says: "All local councils have a Code of Conduct which sets out what is expected of local councillors. When there is an allegation that a councillor has breached the Code, the Independent Person will help assess if there has been a breach. If you are interested in helping to monitor high standards in public life, serve the local community and uphold local democracy - whether you know anything about Local Government or not - then we would welcome your application."

The appointment will be effective from 1 July 2017 for an initial period of four years with the possibility that the period may be extended. Appropriate training will be given. A small allowance and any necessary expenses will be paid by the Council.

The District Council is looking for an individual with experience and knowledge that the public would recognise and respect as bringing an impartial and informed perspective. To ensure your voice is truly independent, there are restrictions on who can apply - you must not be a member or officer of a Council or Parish Council within the District or be a relative or close friend of such a member or officer.

More information and an application pack can be downloaded from the council's website at www.stratford.gov.uk or contact the Monitoring Officer, Phil Grafton on 01789 260400 for an informal discussion.

The deadline for applications is Friday 28 October 2016.