Are you interested in local democracy and politics? Are you looking for a challenging opportunity to develop your skills? Gloucestershire County Council employs three Political Assistants and their contracts run for the four‑year term of the Council (May 2025 to May 2029). A vacancy has arisen to support the Green Group. You will assist the Political Group in managing and coordinating group business, keeping a watching brief on national developments affecting local government, drafting press releases, preparing briefings, managing the group's social media channels and supporting group members in their day‑to‑day activities.
Responsibilities
- Support the Political Group in managing and coordinating group business.
- Maintain a watching brief on national developments affecting local government.
- Draft press releases and prepare briefings.
- Manage the group's social media channels.
- Provide day‑to‑day support to group members.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Experience of working in a political environment (local government experience is desirable).
- Good understanding of online communications including social media.
- Self‑motivated with the ability to manage changing priorities.
- Political awareness and sensitivity.
- Degree standard or equivalent experience.
- Right to work: must have the right to work in the UK for at least 6 months. Sponsorship is not available.
- Fluent English required for customer‑facing role (Immigration Act 2016).
- Designation under Section 9 of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 as politically restricted.
Benefits
- Flexible and agile working opportunities.
- 25.5 days annual leave, rising to 30.5 days after 5 years continuous service.
- Option to purchase 10 days of additional leave per year (pro‑rata for part‑time staff).
- Family‑friendly employer benefits.
- Career development and qualification opportunities.
- Supportive and positive working environment with regular, robust supervision.
- Excellent Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) providing free, confidential counselling and advice 24 hours a day, online and by telephone.
- In‑house Occupational Health service.
- Employee discount scheme.
- Cycle to Work scheme.
- Links to employee networks such as Prism (LGBT+ network) and the Young Employees Network.
- Gloucestershire Salary Sacrifice Green Car Scheme (T&C apply).
