People are being encouraged to ‘Make a Difference’ in their communities by embarking on a rewarding career with their local council.
A new campaign, ‘Make a Difference, Work for your Local Council’, aims to inspire individuals to explore career opportunities that have a direct and lasting impact on the lives of residents.
Local councils provide essential services that residents rely on every day, including planning, housing, environmental health and finance. Following a successful pilot in the North East of England, the campaign highlights the wide range of roles available in council services, welcoming people from all backgrounds and skill levels who are looking to begin a new role in local government.
Produced in collaboration between the Local Government Association (LGA), Solace, Regional Employers Organisations, and councils across the country as part of the LGA’s Sector Support Offer, and funded by the UK Government, the campaign showcases the variety of meaningful and fulfilling opportunities in local government.
Chief Executive Officer, Adam Hill, said: “Local authorities are a great place to work, with a wide range of roles in many different areas. Whether that be developing services for our communities, working with partners or delivering services at the heart of our communities; there is a role for everyone.
“After a lifetime in public service, I can't think of a better career than being in local government.”
With over 9 in 10 councils experiencing recruitment and retention challenges amid growing demand for services, this initiative comes at a crucial time. It aims to address workforce shortages by attracting new talent into councils, ensuring they can continue to provide the vital services on which communities depend.
Executive Mayor Andy Abrahams added: "I started my career in the highways department at the council. The training and support I received provided the platform for a very successful career as a chartered civil engineer, working on projects like the channel tunnel rail link and Manchester airport runway II.
"Despite public perception, local government is a dynamic, exciting place to work that opens opportunities to a variety of careers. I now use all these experiences to help me carry out my role as Executive Mayor."
The campaign website includes a postcode search to help job seekers find their ideal role. With hundreds of jobs in varying roles across the country, there are roles to suit all levels of experience, skills, and ambitions.
Cllr Abi Brown, Chairman of the LGA’s Improvement and Innovation Board, said: “Hundreds of essential services are provided every day by councils and combined authorities to keep our communities running and is great way to grow a career.
“From caring for families and protecting children from harm, to ensuring your favourite takeaway or restaurant is safe and keeping our streets clean, there are a wide variety of challenging but equally rewarding roles on offer.
“Working in local government offers unparalleled opportunities to make a real difference in people's lives and there has never been more important or valued time to join.”
Anyone interested in discovering how they can contribute to the future of their community by working for their local council can visit the dedicated campaign website: www.localcounciljobs.gov.uk (opens in new window).