New members are being sought for the Inverclyde Citizens’ Panel to have their say about local services and issues.

Inverclyde Council is looking for people to join the panel, which is made up of 1,000 adults from across the area.

Membership of the panel changes by around a third each year and the local authority is now seeking over 300 new recruits.

The aim of the Citizens’ Panel is to regularly consult with people on a wide range of issues and to use their feedback to improve and develop services to ensure they meet the needs of Inverclyde residents.

Councillor Stephen McCabe, Leader of Inverclyde Council and convener of policy and resources, said: “We have a diverse population so it’s important we get as many different views and opinions as possible to have their say on what matters most to them.

“The panel is looking for people from all walks of life and from every part of Inverclyde to ensure we continue to provide quality services and support to the individuals and communities we serve.

“The Citizens’ Panel is a great opportunity for residents to help shape the future of the area, influence decision-making and make a real difference to Inverclyde.”

Becoming a member of the Citizens’ Panel will not take up very much time.

Panel members are sent two questionnaires each year to complete covering a broad range of subjects like roads and transport, recycling, alcohol and internet access.

A newsletter is enclosed with each questionnaire which outlines a summary of the results from the previous survey together with information on how the council has responded to feedback provided by panel members.

Around 3,300 people from across Inverclyde will soon receive a letter inviting them to join the Citizens’ Panel. 

Details from completed questionnaires will be entered into a prize draw to win three cash prizes of £75, £50 and £25.

To register an interest in becoming a panel member, please complete a short survey at https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/InverclydeRecruitment2022/.

Paper copies are available on request by calling Inverclyde Council on 01475 712065 or emailing corporate.policy@inverclyde.gov.uk.

The closing date is Monday 14 February 2022.