Independent Person, Standards Committee Hertsmere Borough Council is seeking an Independent Person to join our Standards Committee. The Committee exists to maintain high ethical standards and probity at all levels within Hertsmere Council. This is done by monitoring the operation of the Members’ Code of Conduct by ensuring that councillors comply with the requirements of the code. There are five councillors on the committee representing all our political groups. The Independent Person is a non-voting member of the committee. For this role we are looking for people who can advise us about councillor behaviour. Councillors are required to comply with the Members’ Code of Conduct. Complaints about councillor misconduct are considered by an Independent Person to let us know their view about the complaint. The work is usually done online or by telephone, but will involve occasional travel to Borehamwood for meetings. Independent Persons will typically be asked to consider between two and five cases a year. The cases may be sent at short notice and we normally ask the Independent Person to be able to consider cases within a week. Independent Persons cannot be an officer or councillor of Hertsmere Borough Council or a relative or close friend of any such person. Independent Persons must act impartially. Allowance: £974 per annum. There is also an entitlement to claim travel and subsistence allowances to attend meetings of the Standards Committee and Standards Assessment Panel when appropriate. Term: 4 years We are looking for people that have: A commitment to uphold the seven Nolan Principals of Public Life. A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. An ability to act independently and objectively. An ability to analyse complex information. Excellent interpersonal skills especially listening and communication. An ability to make sound decisions based on evidence. The Council will not consider a candidate who: Has a public profile in party politics including a role on the management or selection committee(s) of a registered political party. Has been a candidate or canvasser for a registered political party at local or national elections. Has been convicted of a criminal offence. Had a contractual relationship with Hertsmere Borough Council that could cause a potential conflict of interest e.g. a contractual relationship with the Council as a supplier. Is a relative or a close friend of an officer, a member, a co-opted member of Hertsmere Borough Council or a Town or Parish Council established in the Borough. Closing Date: Monday 6 January, 10am