At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Council in reviewing services and gathering evidence from communities.
- Company: Islington Council, dedicated to making a positive impact in local communities.
- Benefits: Up to 36 days leave, flexible working, competitive pay, and local discounts.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to equality and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in shaping policies that affect your community.
- Qualifications: Organised, with experience in supporting committees and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
About the role: We are looking for a Scrutiny Officer to join our small but busy Scrutiny team in Democratic Services. You will be supporting the Council’s scrutiny committees in reviewing and improving a wide range of services, from housing and transport to health services and education. In your role, you will gather evidence directly from residents, staff and partner organisations, and best practice from industry leaders and government to support the committees’ reviews and inform their recommendations, which you will play an instrumental part in bringing together. You will also support the committees at their formal meetings, writing minutes, advising on procedural matters and facilitating the compilation of agendas, the attendance of guest speakers and the webcasting of meetings on the Council’s website.
We are looking for:
- A highly organised individual that can manage a highly demanding workload
- Someone with direct experience of supporting committees, boards, panels or similar
- Someone with a keen interest in shaping policy and undertaking research
- Someone who can communicate effectively with staff, councillors and corporate partners, as well as with Islington’s communities and residents
- Someone who can attend evening meetings at the Town Hall, sometimes at short notice and occasionally at other locations around the borough, or online
Interviews will take place on Wednesday 9th September.
Benefits:
- Up to 31 days leave per year, increasing to 36 days after five years of local government service
- A range of flexible working arrangements to maintain a healthy work‑life balance, as well as a 35‑hour working week
- Learning and development opportunities to maximise your potential
- Competitive pay and a commitment to paying all staff the London Living Wage at minimum
- Excellent local government pension scheme
- Cycle to Work scheme and discounted gym memberships
- Local discounts from restaurants, shops, health and beauty therapists, and more
Please note: Priority will be given to those at risk of redundancy within Islington Council. Current employees who are part of the redeployment pool must meet the essential criteria for shortlisting to be prioritised.
Pre‑Employment Checks: Any offer of employment will be subject to the successful completion of required pre‑employment checks. These may include:
- Proof of address
- Evidence of any name changes (if applicable)
- Right to work in the UK
- Overseas criminal record check (if applicable)
- Satisfactory references
- Occupational Health clearance
- Evidence of professional qualifications or registrations
- DBS check at the appropriate level (if applicable)
Safeguarding: We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Disability Confident Scheme: Islington Council operates a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria and is committed to providing support for reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process and throughout careers.
Workforce Equality, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Statement: We are dedicated to creating an inclusive and equitable workforce, where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Our workforce strategy places equality, equity, diversity, and inclusion at the heart of everything we do, reaffirming our commitment to fostering a culture of inclusion.
Scrutiny Officer employer: Islington Council
Islington Council is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With generous leave entitlements, flexible working arrangements, and a commitment to the London Living Wage, employees can thrive both personally and professionally while contributing to meaningful public health initiatives in the vibrant boroughs of Islington and Haringey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Scrutiny Officer
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Islington Council, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Islington Council and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Scrutiny Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Islington Council and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Islington Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Islington Council, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Islington Council.
