At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Youth Council and engage young people in local politics.
- Company: Mid Suffolk and Babergh District Councils, known for collaboration and community focus.
- Benefits: Generous leave, competitive pension, wellbeing support, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with great opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by empowering youth voices in local governance.
- Qualifications: Passion for politics, strong communication skills, and good organisational abilities.
The predicted salary is between 31537 - 36363 £ per year.
Address: Endeavour House, 8 Russell Road, Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 2BX
Hours: Full Time, 37 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
Salary: £31,537 - £36,363 per annum (pro rata for part time)
Applications accepted for full‑time, part‑time and job‑share positions and will be assessed equally.
About the Role
We are seeking a dynamic and politically astute Youth Council and Governance Support Officer to support the establishment and management of the Mid Suffolk Youth Council. The Youth Council was launched last year to give young people a chance to have their voice heard and to get involved in local politics. It addresses the disconnect between young people and politics, with research showing many believe politics should be taught more in schools.
Responsibilities:
- Liaise with key stakeholders
- Carry out research
- Manage and clerk meetings of the Youth Council
- Provide governance advice to councillors and youth councillors
- Ensure the Youth Council operates appropriately and in line with expectations
- Support the broader democratic services team, providing cover and capacity where appropriate
Qualifications and Experience:
- A keen interest in politics and local democracy
- Excellent networking and communication skills
- Good knowledge of research sources and techniques
- Broad understanding of the local government system and the local member role
- Strong administrative, clerical, IT and organisational skills
- Real energy and drive to support the democratic process in the local community
Hybrid Working
This role is hybrid, enabling you to work from home and from the office in Endeavour House on a flexible arrangement suited around working patterns.
About Us
Mid Suffolk and Babergh District Councils serve around 200,000 residents and are known for collaboration and partnership working across public, private and voluntary sectors. We believe the heart of Suffolk is an incredibly special place to live and work, with 60 conservation areas, two national landscapes and many picturesque market towns.
Benefits:
- Generous leave entitlement (26 days a year, rising to 31 days after 5 years)
- Competitive Local Government Pension Scheme
- Wellbeing Support and Employee Assistance Programs
- Private Health Care Options
- Electric Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme
- Paid volunteering days
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements (business needs permitting)
- Great learning and development opportunities
Contact
For an informal discussion about this role, please contact Alicia Norman, Lead Governance Officer – Scrutiny and Projects.
Application Deadline: Closing date: 5.00 pm, 30 June 2026.
Safeguarding and Equality
This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts.
Youth Council and Governance Support Officer in Ipswich employer: Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils
Mid Suffolk and Babergh District Councils offer a vibrant work environment where employees are encouraged to engage with the community and make a real impact on local democracy. With generous leave entitlements, competitive pension schemes, and flexible hybrid working arrangements, we prioritise employee wellbeing and professional development, making it an excellent place for those passionate about youth engagement and governance.
Contact Details:
Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils Recruitment Team
