PEOPLE are being encouraged to ‘Make a Difference’ where they live, through a new career working for their local council, ahead of the launch of a national recruitment campaign.
Essential services which residents rely on every day, ranging from working with adults and children, to finance, planning and environmental health have opportunities available to anyone looking to begin a new role in local government. The ‘Make a Difference, Work for your Local Council’ campaign, funded by the UK Government, showcases the wide variety of rewarding and impactful careers on offer.
More than nine in 10 councils across the country are experiencing staff recruitment and retention difficulties as demand for services continues to rise, highlighting the vital need to attract more people into the workforce.
The campaign was initially piloted in the North East of England from January to March 2024, with impressive results. Supported by extensive advertising on billboards, radio, and social media, the pilot campaign highlighted the diverse roles and exciting career opportunities in local government. It also emphasised the significant difference individuals can make in their communities.
Following this successful pilot, the UK Government has funded the national roll-out of the campaign to all regions. In partnership with the Regional Employers Organisations, the LGA is collaborating with councils nationwide to further develop and refine the campaign before its national launch, planned for Autumn 2024.
Cllr Abi Brown, Chairman of the Local Government Association’s Improvement and Innovation Board, said: “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. Hundreds of essential services are provided every day by councils and combined authorities to keep our communities running.
“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. It is great way to grow a career and we’re thrilled to extend this campaign nationwide, to encourage talented individuals across the country to join their local council in delivering the vital services their communities use and rely on every day.”
* Source: Local Government Association