Why work for local government?

There is such a variety of careers in the public services that you really could do anything. The career options across the sector are vast. There are 468 councils in the UK, from the 33 London boroughs to sprawling county councils and unitary authorities which are responsible for all council services across their district.

Together, local government employs more than two million staff, making it the single biggest employer in the UK. More than 600 different occupations are on offer, double the number available in the NHS. The people employed by local councils have extensive qualifications and experience, and personal training and development is given high priority.

You’ll be amazed by the sheer range and scope of career opportunities available to you, from teaching to social work, from finance to tourism, from engineering to IT, from skilled gardeners to plumbers.

Local government is a diverse employer that encourages the development of its staff who in turn deliver quality services to its clients - the public. Employees feel that they are contributing to the local community and making a difference in people’s lives whilst working in a dynamic, fair and flexible environment. Whoever you are and whatever your background, working in local government gives you the opportunity not only to develop your career but also to improve others’ lives.

Diversity
Because of the range of jobs in local government there are many opportunities for developing your current or future career. The variety and depth of work is huge and spans many professional and trade areas. Of course, diversity does not just mean diversity in the type of job you could be doing. It also means that local government employs many different people from many different walks of life. Local councils strive to be equal opportunities employers and many lead the field in this respect. Councils aim to achieve equity in the terms and conditions of employment for ALL members of staff.

Flexibility
Due to the broad range of occupations in local government, there have always been many different patterns of work. Some jobs may require you to work the traditional full time week i.e. 35-40 hours, but often there may be part time and job share opportunities, or shift work available. Increasingly local councils are investigating different ways of working. Firstly, because of the pressure upon them to deliver services in the most efficient and cost-effective manner. And secondly, to meet the demands of employees who want to achieve a better balance between their work and their other priorities including caring for children or elderly parents, gaining further education and qualifications or pursuing leisure activities.

Training
Local government has long been known as an employer keen to train and develop its staff and although the type of training may vary from council to council, they all think of career development for staff as very important. Many councils have shown their dedication to the continued professional development of staff, by achieving Investors in People (IiP) status. This is a national initiative to promote excellence in training and development.

Some councils run specific training programmes for particular groups of people, for example:
Graduate training schemes
Management trainee schemes
Trainee schemes for professions such as law or accountancy etc.
Apprenticeships
Positive action schemes.
There is also a national graduate development programme for local government run by IDeA.

However, you don’t need to be on one of these schemes to benefit, as the commitment to training includes everybody. As a new member of staff within a council, you will receive an induction telling you about the council and the job you will be doing. Throughout your career in local government, you are likely to have regular appraisals with your line manager enabling you both to identify your current and future training needs. Depending on the needs identified, the council will provide in-house training, or pay for you to attend a course externally. They may also allow you day-release to study for further qualifications.
For many local government employees, the training they receive enables them to gain new qualifications and sometimes this may lead to membership of a professional body.
For more information and career opportunities visit www.lgcareers.com