Search for volunteer to 'help keep standards high' at newly-formed West Northamptonshire Council

A keen and dedicated volunteer from the local community is being sought to help keep standards high in the run-up to the creation of the new West Northamptonshire Council.

The West Northamptonshire Shadow Authority, which is leading the work to create the new Council on 1 April next year, is looking to recruit an ‘Independent Person’ to work with its Standards Committee and democratic services officers to help promote high standards among Members and ensure public confidence in the run-up to go-live day.

Under the Localism Act 2011, the ‘Independent Person’ will have a number of roles, ranging from being consulted on the decision of how to best resolve any complaints about standards of conduct or to advise Councillors on their positions.

The role, which will run until April 2021 when the new Council is then formed, is a valuable source of wisdom and outside perspective for the Authority and will be involved in many interesting issues of ethics and governance. The post is voluntary, however travel and subsistence expenses will be payable for undertaking duties.

Councillor Adam Brown, chair of the West Northamptonshire Shadow Authority’s Governance Task and Finish Group, said: “The role of the Independent Person is a vital one as local government in Northamptonshire undergoes a huge transformation with two new unitary councils next April.

“This position carries a great deal of responsibility with the important task of helping to ensure that shadow councillors maintain the highest of standards. If you’re impartial, dedicated to your community and keen to get involved in local democracy, whether you know anything about local government or not, then we’d love to hear from you.”

The closing date for applications is 4pm on Friday July 31, 2020 with interviews being held on Friday August 7, 2020.

For further details, including an application pack, please contact Paul Hanson, Democratic Services Manager, e-mail: [email protected] or call 07912 891994.