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- Tasks: Support the Independents for B&NES Group with research, policy development, and communications.
- Company: Join Bath & North East Somerset Council to make a positive impact in your community.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible work options, fair pay, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that values community service and political engagement.
- Qualifications: Degree level education or equivalent with strong communication skills required.
- Other info: This is a fixed-term role until June 2027, with potential for reappointment.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for the role of Political Support Officer to the Independents for B&NES Group on Bath & North East Somerset Council. The Political Support Officer role is unique within the Council in that it directly supports the Independents for B&NES Group in undertaking research and policy development, providing administration support and communications advice to Councillors, drafting documentation, as well as supporting Group meetings and councillors’ participation in meetings of the Council and committees.
You will be working closely with the Independents for B&NES Group Leader, Karen Walker, as well as providing support to the Councillors within the wider Independents for B&NES Group (3 elected members in total). This will involve working alongside Councillors to further the aims of the Independents for B&NES Group within the Council, liaising with Council officers on behalf of the Group, and supporting Councillors in highlighting each Group’s policies and achievements.
The ideal candidate will be a strong self-starter, able to work alone and under their own initiative, with a good understanding of both politics and local government, and educated to degree level or equivalent with excellent communication and writing skills. Ideally, you will also have an understanding of the main political issues within Bath & North East Somerset, as well as an understanding of modern communication tools. You should be able to give sound, clear advice on complex issues with a high degree of political sensitivity. You should be able to act at pace and work effectively with elected members, senior officers within the Council and external stakeholders.
Due to statutory restrictions on the role, the post is Politically Restricted and is for a fixed term until 30 June 2027. Following the Council elections in May 2027, the post may be re-appointed on a four year contract. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. A disclosure check with the DBS will be undertaken.
If you are interested in this post and require more details or just to chat through the role and what’s involved, please contact Michael Hewitt, Head of Legal & Democratic Services, on Michael_Hewitt@BATHNES.GOV.UK or call 01225395125. Interview date: 18/06/2025 at the Guildhall, Bath.
Working at Bath & North East Somerset provides an opportunity to contribute to your community and make a positive impact on the lives of residents. Our values shape how we work to deliver public services, and how we communicate with the residents we serve. We care about the best outcomes for local people, through our public services.
We aspire to have a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply and join us. Please note that this role is subject to a Basic DBS Check.
Please note the Council operates a policy of prior consideration for roles for any individual on the Council’s at-risk register. This means should a redeployee express an interest in this role, providing they meet the essential criteria for the role they will be considered.
Contact Detail:
Bath River Line Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Political Group Support Officer (Independents for B&NES)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the key political issues in Bath & North East Somerset. Understanding local concerns will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role and the community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former council members and staff. Engaging with people who have experience in local government can provide valuable insights and may even lead to a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on recent council meetings and decisions. Being knowledgeable about ongoing projects and policies will show your proactive approach and readiness to support the Independents for B&NES Group effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss how you would handle complex political issues with sensitivity. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've navigated challenging situations, as this will highlight your suitability for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Political Group Support Officer (Independents for B&NES)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and requirements of the Political Group Support Officer position. Highlight key skills such as communication, research, and political awareness in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your relevant experience and skills that align with the role. Emphasise any previous work in local government or political environments, and showcase your ability to support elected officials.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only introduces yourself but also explains why you are passionate about supporting the Independents for B&NES Group. Mention specific examples of how your skills can contribute to their goals.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bath River Line
✨Understand the Political Landscape
Before your interview, make sure you have a solid grasp of the current political issues affecting Bath & North East Somerset. This will not only show your interest in the role but also demonstrate your ability to engage with the local community and its concerns.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Political Group Support Officer, excellent communication is key. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated complex information in the past, whether through writing or speaking. This will highlight your suitability for drafting documentation and providing advice.
✨Demonstrate Initiative and Independence
The role requires a self-starter who can work independently. Be ready to discuss instances where you've taken the initiative in previous roles or projects, showcasing your ability to manage tasks without constant supervision.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewer
Having thoughtful questions prepared shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation. Ask about the specific challenges the Independents for B&NES Group is currently facing or how they measure success in this position.
