At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and support research initiatives to enhance decision-making in local government.
- Company: Join Herefordshire Council's Public Health team and make a difference.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Access to a nationwide network of research practitioners and ongoing support.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative role that shapes evidence-based policies and practices.
- Qualifications: Experience in collaborative environments and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 36363 - 38220 € per year.
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. You will act as the main driver of research capability building across the organisation, strengthening research governance, embedding consistent processes, and improving the quality and use of evidence to inform decision making.
The post is primarily focused on building research capability rather than acting as a sole researcher, although there will be opportunities to contribute to and support research activity. It is an exciting opportunity for anyone enthused by developing a more research‑informed Council by setting up high‑quality collaborations with universities, the NHS, voluntary and community partners, and national research bodies. This role is offered on a fixed‑term basis for two years, linked to National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) funding. Due to the funding conditions, the successful candidate must be in post no later than 30 June 2026. Prospective candidates should only consider an application if they are able to start in post no later than 30 June 2026.
What will you be doing? As the Local Authority Research Practitioner, you will coordinate and support research activity across the Council, helping to build organisational capacity and capability. This will include improving the consistency and quality of research processes such as needs assessments, evaluations, public surveys and other forms of research activity and engagement. It will also involve supporting collaborative research projects and funding applications; and strengthening research governance and dissemination routes. You will work closely with public health, corporate intelligence and wider council services, as well as external partners, to ensure that evidence and lived experience meaningfully inform policy, service design and decision making.
About You: 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. You will be proactive, well‑organised and committed to developing research capability and evidence‑informed practice within a local government setting.
What we Offer: A competitive salary, holiday entitlement, and access to our contributory pension and staff benefits scheme. 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. You can also 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). Pick your perks – our benefits include access to a range of retail, leisure, holiday and health benefits. This includes savings, cash back and discounts.
Commitments, Covenants and Statutory Obligations: The following candidates will be interviewed if they meet the essential criteria for the post they are applying for: Those who indicate that they have a disability. This is part of our commitment to the “Disability Confident” scheme. Those who indicate in their application that they are an Armed Forces Veteran or Reservist. This is part of our pledge to support the Armed Forces Covenant. Those who indicate in their application that they are a Herefordshire care leaver. This is part of our commitment to supporting young people leaving our care. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. If you are offered this position, it will be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service check.
Local Authority Research Practitioner (LARP) employer: Hoople
Herefordshire Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth and collaboration. As a Local Authority Research Practitioner, you will benefit from a competitive salary, generous annual leave, and flexible working arrangements, all while contributing to meaningful research initiatives that shape public health policy in the community. With access to a vast network of professionals and resources, this role provides a unique opportunity to enhance your skills and make a tangible impact in local governance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Local Authority Research Practitioner (LARP)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the public health sector, especially those already working in local authorities or research roles. Attend events, webinars, and workshops to make connections that could lead to opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your enthusiasm! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let your passion for research and public health shine through. Share your ideas on how to build research capability and improve decision-making processes.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of research governance and ethics. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to collaborative projects and strengthen research processes within the council.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Local Authority Research Practitioner (LARP)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Local Authority Research Practitioner. We want to see how you can contribute to building a sustainable research culture at Herefordshire Council!
Showcase Your Collaboration Skills:Since this role involves working with various organisations, be sure to emphasise your experience in collaborative projects. We love seeing examples of how you've built networks and worked with others to achieve common goals.
Communicate Clearly:Your ability to explain complex information is key! Use clear and concise language in your application to demonstrate how you can communicate research evidence effectively to different audiences. We appreciate straightforward communication!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hoople
✨Know Your Research Governance
Familiarise yourself with research governance, ethics, and information governance requirements. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you understand the framework within which you'll be operating as a Local Authority Research Practitioner.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully worked across different organisations, like local authorities or the NHS. Highlight your ability to build networks and collaborate effectively, as this role heavily relies on working with various partners.
✨Communicate Complex Ideas Simply
Practice explaining complex research concepts in straightforward terms. The interviewers will want to see that you can communicate effectively with diverse audiences, so think of ways to simplify your explanations without losing the essence of the information.
✨Demonstrate Enthusiasm for Evidence-Informed Practice
Express your passion for developing a research-informed culture within local government. Share any relevant experiences or ideas you have for improving research processes and how you envision contributing to the Council's goals.
