Cumberland Council is seeking people to join its Community Panels and help transform their communities.
The council’s eight panels direct funding and other support to grass roots projects in their wards. They are made up of ward councillors, but some of the panels are now seeking non-elected people who might be able to offer insight, expertise or new skills.
These co-opted members can’t vote at meetings, but they can directly influence decision-making with their ideas and advice.
Cllr Lisa Brown, Cumberland Council’s Deputy leader and portfolio Holder for Governance and Thriving Communities, said: “I believe the unique advantage of Community Panels is that they are so close to their communities. They are led by the views of residents, who tell us what they want to prioritise, and what’s missing.
“They can be made even more democratic and ‘local’ by bringing the ideas and experience of knowledgeable people directly to the table.
“I can’t stress enough that I’d like everyone to consider this – whatever you gender, age and life experience, you could bring us something unique. And while everyone is welcome to express an interest, I’d love to see more than just those who are already engaged with their community and council. New faces with fresh perspectives are especially welcome.
"The time commitment does not need to be onerous - the panels meet four times a year and there could be additional time needed for induction, training and meeting preparation."
Co-opted members could be residents, employers, students – anyone who works or lives in that Community Panel area, or has a particular connection to it.
Currently, the following Community Panels are seeking co-opted members. Others may choose to do so in the future:
- Lakes to Sea
Covering the wards of Bothel and Wharrels, Cockermouth North, Cockermouth South, Dearham and Broughton, Keswick, Maryport North and Maryport South.
- Workington Together
Covering the wards of Mossbay, Moorclose, Harrington, Seaton, St John’s and Great Clifton, and St Michael’s.
- Whitehaven and Coastal
Covering the wards of Bransty, Egremont North, Hillcrest and Hensingham, Howgate, Kells and Sandwith, and Mirehouse.
- Fells and Solway
Covering the wards of Dalston and Burgh, Solway Coast, Thursby, Aspatria and Wigton.
- Petteril
Covering the wards of Botcherby, Currock, Harraby South, Harraby North and Upperby.
Anyone who is interested in finding out more about becoming a co-opted Community Panel member should visit Co-opted Community Panel members | Cumberland Council.
Co-opted members must be over 18 and cannot be currently employed by Cumberland or Westmorland and Furness councils.
Applications will remain open until an appropriate number of co-optees has been recruited – so those interested should apply as soon as possible.