At a Glance
- Tasks: Support Brighton & Hove City Council in maintaining high standards of conduct among elected members.
- Company: Brighton & Hove City Council, committed to integrity and public service.
- Benefits: Annual allowance of £1089.53 plus reasonable expenses.
- Other info: Ideal for those passionate about ethics in governance.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public life while exercising your judgement and discretion.
- Qualifications: Strong public sector ethos and ability to remain impartial.
In this role, you are not employed by the council. It attracts an annual allowance of £1089.53 plus reasonable expenses.
Recruitment of two Independent Persons to Brighton & Hove City Council and to the East Sussex Fire Authority. The above Authorities are each seeking to recruit to the role of ‘Independent Person(s)’. These Independent Persons are appointed under the Localism Act 2011 to support the appointing body in promoting and maintaining high standards of conduct amongst their elected and co‑opted members. The Independent Persons are consulted when allegations are made against councillors. They are required to act objectively and impartially, maintaining confidentiality at all times.
This role would particularly suit someone with a strong public sector ethos and an interest in assisting with the project of maintaining high standards in public life. The ability to formulate an impartial and evidence‑based view is important in this role, as is the ability to exercise discretion and professional judgement in a context which may be complex.
The law prevents the appointment to this role of anyone who is or has in the last five years been a member or co‑opted member of the appointing body. The same restriction applies to any potential applicant who is a relative or close friend of someone who is a member or co‑opted member.
Applications are invited by curriculum vitae and covering letter. Your covering letter should highlight your relevant experience as well as your interest in this role. If you do not indicate that you wish to be considered for appointment to just one or other of the Fire Authority or Brighton & Hove City Council, then it will be assumed that you wish to be considered for both appointments.
The closing date for applications is Wednesday 20th May 2026. Interviews will be scheduled for 1st or 3rd June 2026 and will take place via Microsoft Teams.
Independent Persons to Brighton & Hove City Council employer: Sussex Law Society
Barwells Solicitors is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth and career progression. Located in the picturesque town of Seaford, our flexible working arrangements allow for a healthy work-life balance while you engage in meaningful litigation work, handling diverse disputes and building strong client relationships. With a competitive salary and bonus package, we are committed to fostering a rewarding environment for our team members.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Independent Persons to Brighton & Hove City Council
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Sussex Law Society, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Sussex Law Society and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Independent Persons to Brighton & Hove City Council
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Sussex Law Society and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sussex Law Society
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Sussex Law Society, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Sussex Law Society.
