A new SENDIASS Advisory Board is being established for the Liverpool and Knowsley joint SENDIASS service and it is seeking an independent Volunteer Chair to support its important work.
This role may particularly suit retired headteachers, former councillors, and retired professionals who are looking to use their experience in governance, leadership and strategic oversight to make a meaningful contribution to children, young people and families.
About the Advisory Board
The primary purpose of the Board is to provide independent oversight and assurance that the SENDIASS service is meeting the National IASS Minimum Standards and to help inform future service development.
The Board will include representatives from a range of partner organisations. We are required to appoint an independent Chair and are therefore seeking a volunteer willing to undertake this role .
About the Role
The Chair’s role is intended to be supportive and light-touch. The time commitment is minimal and clearly defined.
Responsibilities include:
- Chairing the Advisory Board meeting (held every six months, lasting approximately 1.5 hours)
- Supporting constructive discussion focused on service improvement
- Reviewing the SENDIASS service development plan at each meeting
- Reviewing the SENDIASS annual report once per year
The local authority will:
- Arrange meetings
- Prepare agendas
- Circulate invitations and papers
Your role would simply be to attend and chair the meetings. You would also be asked to identify a deputy who could attend in your absence.
Who We Are Looking For
We are seeking someone who:
- Has experience of strategic leadership, governance or public service
- Can provide independent, balanced oversight
- Is confident chairing meetings and encouraging focused discussion
- Is committed to improving services for children, young people and families
Experience in education, local government or a professional regulatory or advisory environment would be particularly valuable.
Why Volunteer?
This is an opportunity to:
- Contribute your expertise to an important local service
- Support accountability and high standards
- Make a positive difference with a modest time commitment
We are aiming to hold the first meeting as soon as possible.
If you are interested in supporting this important work, please submit an expression of interest to commissionedsupport@knowsley.gov.uk by end of day on 12 April 2026.