Apply to become an Independent Person

About the role

We are seeking to appoint to 2 vacancies for the role of Independent Person. The Independent Person helps promote and maintain high standards of conduct by Borough, Town and Parish Councillors. 

The Independent Person works with Wokingham Borough Council’s Monitoring Officer, providing objective and impartial views on complaints about Councillors’ behaviour. They will also be a member of the Panel advising the Council on matters relating to the potential dismissal of the Council’s Head of Paid Service, Chief Finance Officer and Monitoring Officer. 

The role would suit someone who has a keen interest in local government and standards of behaviour in public office. 

Experience required

Prospective applicants should have experience of public sector organisations, good analytical and communication skills, be contactable during working hours and be available to attend hearings or meetings at relatively short notice. Meetings are you usually held during the day. 

An allowance of £1,000 per annum will be paid along with travel and parking expenses.

However, you cannot be appointed to the role if:

1. you are politically active;
2. now, or within the past 5 years, you have been an elected Member, co-opted member or Officer of Wokingham Borough Council;
3. now, or within the past 5 years, you have been an elected Member, co-opted member or Officer of a Town or Parish Council within the area of Wokingham Borough Council;
4. you are a relative or close friend of a person within (b) or (c) above;
5. you are involved with the Local Authority as a major supplier, partner or contractor.

How to apply

Further information, including an application form, can be obtained from Neil Carr, Democratic Services, Wokingham Borough Council, Shute End, Wokingham RG40 1BN.

• Contact: Neil Carr
• Email: democratic.services@wokingham.gov.uk  
• Call: 07889 669 359

Deadline for applications - 25 April

Application forms should be returned to Democratic Services by 25 April 2025. 

Interviews will be held in early May 2025.