Independent Panel Member

Working with Councillors: You will attend around six meetings a year alongside elected councillors from across the West Midlands. You'll bring an independent perspective to discussions and help to ensure balanced and effective scrutiny. Review and Scrutinise: You will examine strategic plans, performance information, and progress reports presented by the Police and Crime Commissioner and help assess whether community priorities are being met, objectives are being delivered and public funds are being used effectively to improve outcomes for communities. Promote Transparency and Accountability: The Panel plays a crucial role in ensuring that the Police and Crime Commissioner is publicly accountable for decisions and performance. Who we are looking for:Applicants must be over 18 years old and live or work in the West Midlands. Full eligibility criteria are set out in the recruitment pack.We are looking for someone who:

• Has an interest in public accountability, policing, community safety and improving public services
• Can think independently, analyse information and can make balanced judgements
• Can work collaboratively with others
• Has a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion and understands the importance of hearing from diverse communities
• Can contribute confidently and respectfully in formal public meetings
You do not need specialist knowledge or professional qualifications. Experience gained through work, volunteering, community involvement or lived experience can be equally valuable.Term and Commitment:
• Term of appointment: November 2026 - May 2028.
• Meetings: Prepare for and attend approximately six meetings a year, usually held on Mondays (1pm-5pm) in person at various venues across the West Midlands.
Training and Expenses:
• Induction and relevant development training will be provided.
• A £930 allowance is available to cover travel and other expenses associated with carrying out this role.
  
  application. Proof of Right to work in the UK will be required for all applicants in accordance with UK Home Office requirements, before any employment offer can be confirmed. Birmingham City Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our citizens and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. You can view our Corporate Safeguarding Policy | Birmingham City Council here. Sponsorship is not available for this post. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK that does not require employer sponsorship for the duration of the appointment., Working for Birmingham City Council is more than just a job; it's about making life better for the 1 million plus people who live and work in the city., The Council is a fantastic place to work. You will find an organisation that is both challenging and supportive; with a leadership impatiently adventurous in its pursuit of excellence.
There is a clear vision which is ensuring that the Council is working for communities today and building for tomorrow, we focus our resources on five key priorities:
• A Prosperous Birmingham: through a focus on inclusive economic growth, tackling unemployment, attracting inward investment, and maximising the benefits of the Commonwealth Games.
• An Inclusive Birmingham: through a focus on tackling poverty and inequality, empowering citizens, promoting diversity and civic pride, and supporting and enabling all children and young people to thrive.
• A Safe Birmingham: through a focus on making the city safer, safeguarding vulnerable citizens, increasing affordable housing, and tackling homelessness.
• A Healthy Birmingham: through a focus on tackling health inequalities, encouraging physical activity and healthy living, supporting mental health, and improving outcomes for adults with disabilities and older people.
• A Green Birmingham: through a focus on street cleanliness, improving air quality, continuing the route to net zero, and becoming a city of nature.
We see the Council's role as providing strategic leadership - that's being able to visualise a new future for the city and equipping others to share our vision. We want to ensure the provision of services for all, so we can support those least able to support themselves by working with partners and putting citizens and neighbourhoods at the heart of our decision-making. We are always looking for people who put the customer at the centre of their approach, with a commitment to excellence to help us achieve our vision. We will support you to develop and thrive in your role, building a pathway for long-term success, with lots of development opportunities, such as apprenticeships.

In return, we offer you excellent terms and conditions, generous annual leave, a great pension scheme, well-being support, annual travel passes and discounts at a number of city centre establishments.