Council bosses seek standards watchdogs

Council bosses in County Durham are looking for volunteers to help maintain standards of conduct among county, town and parish councillors in the area.

Applications are now open for two ‘Independent Person’ posts to support Durham County Council’s monitoring officer and Standards Committee.

The successful applicants may be consulted by the council’s monitoring officer when they are considering complaints made against councillors or co-opted members and by the Standards Committee before it decides on any complaint against a councillor that has resulted in an investigation.

They will be expected to attend at least two meetings of the Standards Committee a year and be available by telephone and email for consultation on complaints.

Therolesarevoluntaryand unpaid, but the successful applicants will receive travelling and subsistence allowances, and a full induction with training will be provided.

Helen Lynch, Durham County Council’s head of legal and democratic services, said: “The council has a duty to upholdhighstandardsofconduct inlocalgovernmentandtheIndependentPersonsplayanimportant role in this.

“The roles are suitable for people who have a keen interest in standards in public life and want to serve the local community and uphold democracy.”

“Thesuccessfulcandidates will get all the help and guidance they need to fulfil their roles.”

For an application form contact Lucy Gladders, senior committee services officer, by emailing lucy.gladders@durham.gov.uk or calling 03000 269 712. Closing date is April 17.