Appointment of Independent Person.
West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service Authority.
Localism Act 2011.
In accordance with Section 28(7) of the Localism Act 2011, the Authority is required to appoint an Independent Person. This will initially be for a two-year term of office from 1 July 2026. The role of the independent person involves giving their views on matters involving Authority Members and ethical standards issues.
Job Description.
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To assist the Authority generally in discharging its duty to promote and maintain high standards of conduct by Elected Members.
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To work collectively with the Monitoring Officer to determine whether elected members comply with the requirements of the Members Code of Conduct of the Authority.
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To attend meetings of the Full Authority and its sub committees, in person at the WYFRS Headquarters in Birkenshaw, Bradford. Over the municipal year there are 20 meetings and although attendance at every meeting is not compulsory, it is recommended. Committees are usually on Friday mornings, commencing at 10:30am.
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Whilst not a current requirement, you may be required to participate in joint arrangements with other West Yorkshire local authorities.
Skills and Competencies.
In the supporting statement section of the application form give clear examples of how you meet all of the Essential criteria below in order to be shortlisted.
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Indicator |
Essential/ Desirable |
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1. Has a good understanding of the ethical standards required of persons holding public office; |
E |
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2. Has high standards of integrity and excellent communication skills |
E |
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3. Operates consistently and without bias. |
E |
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4. Is an effective role model; supports appropriate behaviours and challenges opinions and advice where appropriate, separating major issues from minor ones. |
E |
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5. Contributes proactive, proportionate and independent thought. |
E |
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6. Works sensitively with people inside and outside committee. |
E |
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7. Listens to and balances advice/objectivity |
E |
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8. Is able to act with tact and discretion and maintain the confidentiality of confidential and sensitive information |
E |
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9. Demonstrates a commitment to equal opportunities |
E |
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10. Experience gained working in a large/public sector organisation |
D |
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11. Serving on a committee. |
D |
Person Specification.
An Independent Person MUST:
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Live in West Yorkshire
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Be able and willing to devote the necessary time to the role
An Independent Person MUST NOT:
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Be, or have been during the last 5 years, a member or officer of the Authority or of any other local authority
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Be a relative or a close friend of member or officer of the Fire Authority.
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Be active in party politics
A person is defined by the Localism Act 2011 as a ‘relative if they are:
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The spouse or civil partner or living as if they were a spouse or civil partner;
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A grandparent;
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A lineal descendant of a grandparent;
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A parent, sibling or child;
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The spouse or civil partner of a grandparent, lineal descendant of a grandparent, or a parent, sibling or child; or
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Living with a grandparent, lineal descendant of a grandparent, or a parent, sibling or child as if they were a spouse or civil partner.
Travel and Subsistence.
The Authority will meet travel and subsistence expenses at the rates set for councillors and will also pay a small annual honorarium of £500 per annum.
A satisfactory Standard Disclosure and Barring (DBS) check is required for this role.
Closing date for all applications is Sunday 7 June.
We are an equal opportunities employer; we value and celebrate equality, diversity & neurodiversity and inclusion. We particularly welcome candidates from communities that are currently under-represented at WYFRS, including women, racially & ethnically diverse applicants and applicants with disabilities. We can offer support and adjustments for candidates and staff who experience barriers to work that result from health conditions or Specific Learning Differences, such as dyslexia. We are a ‘Real Living Wage’ employer.
West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service are committed to the safeguarding of our staff, volunteers, visitors and the community we serve. This includes protecting vulnerable adults, children and young people from potential neglect and harm. All employees must share the same commitment.
Click here for Additional Guidance on our new E-recruitment System
All correspondence will usually be sent to your email account registered with the online recruitment system rather than by letter. Please check your email account regularly.
If after reading all of this information, you are interested in applying, please read the documents listed above for more details and click on 'Apply' for the application form.
Please note we do not accept CVs. If you are viewing this vacancy on ‘jobsindeed’ or other external platform, please be advised this vacancy is only open to West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service employees.
For recruitment queries please contact Applications@westyorksfire.gov.uk