Could you help uphold trust and fairness in local democracy? 

West Northamptonshire Council is inviting applications from people with a passion for integrity, fairness and public service to become Independent Persons, a vital role that helps uphold high standards of conduct in local government.

Independent Persons play an important part in maintaining public confidence in how local democracy works. When a concern is raised about whether a councillor or co-opted member has followed the Council’s Code of Conduct, the Council is required by law to seek the views of an Independent Person before a decision is made. Independent Persons may also be consulted directly by councillors who are the subject of a complaint, providing an impartial and independent perspective. 

The role is not about taking sides, but about applying sound judgement, balance, and fairness. Independent Persons are asked to read and consider complaints and investigation reports, work closely with the Council’s Monitoring Officer and her team to help ensure concerns are handled proportionately, transparently and in line with the law. The impartiality and independence of the role helps reassure residents that high standards of behaviour are expected and upheld. 

What we’re looking for are people with a sense of fairness, sound judgement and the confidence to look at issues objectively. There are no specific qualifications or experience necessary. An understanding of local government can be helpful, but full training is provided. We’re looking for individuals with integrity who can listen carefully, consider different perspectives, act independently and help us uphold the high standards our residents expect.Sarah Hall, Monitoring Officer at West Northamptonshire Council

Appointments are made for a four-year term, with an annual allowance of £600.  

To ensure the role remains fully independent, applicants must not have been a councillor or co-opted member of West Northamptonshire Council, a predecessor authority, or a parish or town council within the area in the last five years. Applicants must also not be a close friend or relative of someone who currently holds one of these roles 

Further information and an application pack are available on Council’s website.  

The closing date for applications is Sunday 28 February, with interviews expected to take place in the week beginning of 9 March.