Independent Person

PLEASE DO NOT APPLY USING THE DERBYSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL WEBSITE, PLEASE SEE DETAILS BELOW.

 Chesterfield Borough Council Independent Person Application Pack 

Join us as an Independent Person – Upholding standards in public life:  

Are you passionate about integrity, fairness, and accountability in public service?

We are seeking 2 committed and impartial Independent Persons to support our Standards and Audit Committee in promoting and maintaining high standards of conduct among elected members. The term of office is until 31st March 2028, with an option to extend for 1 year. 

About the role

 As an Independent Person, you will play a key role in:

• Advising the council on the conduct of elected members.
• Assisting in the assessment and investigation of complaints under the Members’ Code of Conduct.
• Providing an independent and external perspective on standards matters.
• Sitting on a Panel (as a committee) that makes recommendations to full Council before any final decision is made to dismiss a statutory officer. 

This is a statutory role under the Localism Act 2011 and your input will help ensure transparency and public confidence in local democracy. 

What we’re looking for 

We welcome applications from individuals who:

• Demonstrate high standards of integrity and sound judgement.
• Have a keen interest in local governance and ethical standards.
• Can remain impartial and objective in sensitive situations.
• Possess excellent communication and analytical skills. 

Previous experience in governance, legal, or public service roles is desirable but not essential. 

What we offer 

• A meaningful opportunity to contribute to public life.
• Training and support to help you succeed in the role.
• An annual allowance of £1,393 per annum and reimbursement of reasonable expenses (travel and subsistence.) 

Eligibility 

You must not be:

• A current or recent (within the last 5 years) elected member, co-opted member, or officer of the council (including Town and Parish Councils within the borough of Chesterfield ) or any of its committees.
• A relative or close friend of any such person.
• Other eligibility requirements apply-please see the application pack for further details. 

How to apply 

If you wish to discuss this role, please contact the Interim Head of Legal and Monitoring Officer, Sian Roxborough (01246 959 617) / sian.roxborough@chesterfield.gov.uk . To apply, please read the Independent Person application pack for more details of the position and submit an up to date CV with a supporting statement (no more than 2 sides of A4) setting out how you meet the requirements of the role to sian.roxborough@chesterfield.gov.uk Alternatively, you can send your application by post to:

Sian Roxborough, Interim Head of Legal and Monitoring Officer, Legal Services, Chesterfield Borough Council, Town Hall, Rose Hill, Chesterfield S40 1LP 

Interviews expected: 18th September 2025 

Help us uphold the values of public service. Apply today and make a difference in your community.