Could you be the voice of independence?

Released on 19 April 2012

Surrey Heath Borough Council has an opportunity for an Independent Person to help maintain high standards of conduct by its elected Councillors and co-opted Members.

The council is developing a new Code of Conduct setting out the key obligations of its elected office. The views of the Independent Person would be sought should a complaint be made that a Member failed to comply with the code. Their views can be sought at any other stage during an investigation, or by a Member against whom an allegation has been made.

The council is looking for someone already involved in the local community, but not politically active within it, and with an interest in Local Government. No professional background is required but it's important they have the profile and experience the community would recognise and respect in bringing an impartial and informed perspective to the investigation process.

Having experience in interpreting codes of conduct would be an advantage, as would knowledge of Local Government.
To ensure a truly independent voice in the role, the law rules out anyone who currently is, or has been within the last five years, a Member or co-opted Member of Surrey Heath Borough Council or its associated Parish Councils, or a close friend or relative of any of those persons.

This is an unpaid voluntary position, likely to be for an initial one year term, however reasonable travelling and subsistence expenses will be paid.

Applicants who would like to discuss the position informally and confidentially, should call Richard Payne, Monitoring Officer, at Surrey Heath Borough Council, on 01276 707150.

Application forms are available below or by calling Sarah Lindsay on 01276 707255. The closing date is 20 May 2012 and interviews will be held in the week commencing 28 May 2012.