Appointment of Independent Persons

Localism Act 2011

St Albans District Council is looking for a member of the public to take on the statutory role of 'Independent Person’ for the Council.

This important role involves being consulted for your independent view on any complaints about District or Town/Parish councillors’ conduct and advising any councillors who are complained about.  Independent Persons may also be invited to serve on a Panel convened to advise the Council should disciplinary action be proposed in respect of certain designated senior officer posts.

Most requests for advice can be considered on the basis of case papers.  Occasionally you will need by arrangement to attend meetings of the Council’s Standards Committee held at the Civic Centre, usually at starting at 7pm.

To ensure the independence of the role, applicants may not be a St Albans District or Parish councillor, co-opted councillor or employee of the Council or have been within the last five years.  Neither can they be a relative or close friend of such a person.

A small fixed annual allowance (currently £470 per annum, subject to periodic review) will be paid, together with any travel expenses.

No formal qualifications are required but candidates must be aged 18 or over and preferably live or work in St Albans District.  Initial appointments will usually be made for a term expiring on 20 July 2027.

We are an Equal Opportunity organisation. Equality, diversity and inclusion are important to us. We welcome and encourage applications from a wide range of people who reflect the rich diversity of our communities.