Overview
We are seeking a motivated and skilled Local Authority Research Practitioner (LARP) to join our Public Health team at Herefordshire Council. In this new and specialist role you will lead and support the development of a sustainable research culture across the Council, acting as the main driver of research capability building, strengthening governance, embedding consistent processes and improving the quality and use of evidence to inform decision making. This role is offered on a fixed‑term basis of two years, funded through National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) funding, and the successful candidate must be in post no later than 30 June 2026.
Responsibilities
* Coordinate and support research activity across the Council, building organisational capacity and capability.
* Improve the consistency and quality of research processes such as needs assessments, evaluations, public surveys and other forms of research activity.
* Support collaborative research projects and funding applications and strengthen research governance and dissemination routes.
* Work closely with public health, corporate intelligence, wider council services and external partners to ensure evidence and lived experience inform policy, service design and decision making.
* Maintain and develop a network of Local Authority Research Practitioner roles (70+ across the country) and other NIHR support.
Qualifications
* Experience of working collaboratively across organisations such as local authorities, the NHS, universities or the VCSE sector.
* Strong organisational and communication skills, with the ability to explain complex information to a wide range of audiences.
* Enthusiasm and experience to convene others, build networks and identify and share innovation.
* Ability to understand, interpret and communicate research evidence to inform decision-making.
* Knowledge of research governance, ethics and information governance requirements, or aptitude to learn quickly.
Benefits
* Salary range of £36,363 - £38,220.
* Enrolment in the Local Government Pension Scheme.
* Annual Leave: 31 days' annual leave (pro rata) plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase an additional 10 days per annum during the request period.
* Flexible working, including the potential for job‑sharing, part‑time hours and agile working.
* Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 access to support and counselling.
* Payment of professional membership fees (based on role requirements).
* Access to a range of retail, leisure, holiday and health benefits, including savings, cash back and discounts.
EEO Statements
* Those who indicate that they have a disability – part of our commitment to the "Disability Confident" scheme.
* Those who indicate in their application that they are an Armed Forces Veteran or Reservist – part of our pledge to support the Armed Forces Covenant.
* Those who indicate in their application that they are a Herefordshire care leaver – part of our commitment to supporting young people leaving our care.
* All staff, visitors and volunteers are expected to share in our commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. Subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service check.
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