S26-153 Press and PR Officer (LC8) in Preston

Press and PR Officer

Lancashire Constabulary is seeking a skilled and motivated Press and PR Officer to join our Corporate Communications team. This is a key role supporting the Constabulary’s reputation, helping to build trust and confidence with communities, stakeholders and the media.

As a member of the Constabulary’s Press and PR team you will work to provide a high‑quality, comprehensive proactive and reactive press and PR service for the Constabulary, its stakeholders and the media, with the aim of increasing public confidence and reducing the fear of crime. No two days are the same, with incidents varying day‑to‑day. Working on call can be challenging, but rewarding, providing support out of hours for officers who need your help. Issuing appeals that help police make arrests or solve crimes demonstrates the difference you will make.

Key Responsibilities

• Take the lead, under the direction of the Senior Press and PR Officer, for the media management of all serious/major crimes and incidents countywide.
• Recognise and manage incidents and issues, including those on social media, that could expose the force to international, national or regional media attention in order to enhance and protect the corporate reputation of the Constabulary and to increase public confidence and reduce fear of crime.
• Promote the positive work of the Constabulary and identify and maximise opportunities to deliver operational PR activity, both through traditional media and all the Constabulary’s social media channels.
• Work closely with colleagues across the Media and Engagement department to maximise the potential of all press and public relations work through effective teamwork, including internal communications, campaigns and digital.
• Collaborate with the wider organisation to provide support and focus to operational policing, and attend meetings (e.g., Gold Command) to offer expert support and advice to colleagues where appropriate.

Skills and Experience

• Experience of all forms of media liaison including call handling, press briefings, press conferences, facilitation of interviews and planning communication/media strategies.
• Ability to work as an effective team member in a demanding environment.
• Experience of sourcing, researching, writing and distributing a range of press releases for a variety of media, including industry publications.
• Demonstrable experience in a public relations or journalism field within the Police or other public sector organisation.
• Must hold a qualification in journalism or public relations equivalent to NVQ Level 5.
• Must hold a full UK Manual driving licence.

Vetting and Medical

As a condition of your appointment you must undergo and pass Recruitment Vetting (RV). There is a minimum 3‑year UK residency requirement for Recruitment Vetter and you must be 18 years old at the point of applying. Successful applicants will also be subject to a medical assessment.

Benefits

• 25–31 days annual leave (role‑dependent) plus 8 bank holidays pro rata.
• Local Government Pension Scheme with contributions from 5.5% to 12.5% depending on your salary.
• Sick pay provisions.
• Generous maternity, paternity and adoption leave entitlements.
• Option to become a member of the onsite unions.
• Discounts from various retailers via the Blue Light Scheme.
• Access to on-site gyms – HQ.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Support from our Health and Wellbeing Centre including Welfare Officers, Counselling, Physiotherapy and Mental Health Peer Supporters.
• Hybrid / Agile working (role‑dependent).