Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council

Viewpoint - How the panel works

This page contains information on how the Viewpoint panel works, how long you can remain a member and what we can offer members of the panel.

How will I have my say?

• We will ask you what you think about Council services and issues that affect you and the area you live in.
  
• You will be sent no more than six questionnaires per year and be invited to respond either online or via a telephone call.
  
• You may get invited to small, informal meetings to discuss issues in depth.
  
• From time-to-time we may also invite you to join a consultation that relates to you personally, for example because you:
  
  - Are from a certain area;
  - Are a certain age;
  - Are from a particular ethnic group;
  - Have a particular disability.
  
  
• Occasionally you will be invited to full panel events.

How long will I be a member?

• We want to make sure as many people as possible get the chance to be a part of Viewpoint. This means we ask some of the current members to stand down each year. You will be a panel member for no more than three years (If you want to leave before being asked, you only have to let us know).

What happens to the information I provide?

• We will treat the information you provide us with during your membership of Viewpoint confidentially in accordance with the requirements of the Data Protection Act. When you cease to be a member of Viewpoint all personal information held on you will be destroyed.

What can we offer you?

• We will cover your travel expenses to and from meetings.
  
• We will always provide information in a format that is accessible to you.
  
• We will make sure meetings are held in accessible venues.
  
• Interpreters and aids to communication are available on request.
  
• We will cover child care expenses on request (providing the child is with a Council registered child minder).