National Recruitment Campaign Encourages People to ‘Make a Difference’ by Joining Local Councils

Friday, November 22, 2024

A new national recruitment campaign is urging individuals to make a tangible difference in their communities by starting a career with their local council. The ‘Make a Difference, Work for your Local Council’ initiative is designed to inspire jobseekers to consider a role in local government, offering opportunities that have a direct and lasting impact on the lives of local residents.

The campaign, which was officially launched today, invites people to visit the newly created website, www.localcounciljobs.gov.uk, where they can search for roles by postcode and find a position that suits their skills and interests. The website offers an easy way for prospective applicants to explore a wide range of career opportunities in local government.

Local councils provide essential services such as social care for both children and adults, environmental health, financial management, and planning, all of which are vital to the daily functioning of communities. The campaign highlights these areas and encourages individuals from all backgrounds and experience levels to apply for roles that help to deliver these important services.

The launch follows the success of a pilot campaign in the North East of England, which demonstrated the positive impact that promoting local government jobs can have on attracting talent to the sector. With councils across England now facing significant challenges related to recruitment and retention, the new campaign is seen as a timely and crucial step in addressing these issues.

Councils nationwide have been provided with a comprehensive toolkit to help them promote local government careers within their areas. National advertising, including radio spots, billboards, and social media campaigns, will support the initiative and raise public awareness about the wide range of roles available.

This initiative is a collaboration between the Local Government Association (LGA), SOLACE, Regional Employers Organisations, and local councils, and is part of the LGA’s Sector Support Offer. Funded by the UK Government, the campaign showcases the fulfilling and meaningful opportunities available within local government, aiming to attract talent that can help tackle the increasing demand for services.

A Critical Time for Local Government Recruitment

The campaign comes at a time of pressing need within the local government sector. With more than nine in 10 councils facing significant challenges in recruitment and retention, and with increasing demand for essential public services, the need for skilled workers has never been greater.

Cllr Abi Brown OBE, Chairman of the LGA’s Improvement and Innovation Board, commented:

“There has never been a more important time to highlight the real difference that working in local government makes. With public services facing mounting demand, we need committed and talented individuals to help deliver vital services. This campaign represents a fantastic opportunity for people to join their local council and contribute to the well-being of their communities.”

Graeme McDonald, Managing Director of Solace, added:

 
“This campaign not only highlights the diversity of careers available within local government but also reinforces the positive impact these roles can have on the lives of local residents. We are proud to support this initiative and look forward to its success in encouraging more people to consider a career in local government.”

With councils across England now actively recruiting, those interested in learning more about available positions can visit the website to explore current job listings and find a career path that suits their skills and passions.