When applying for a role at the council you will be required to complete a short application form and if specified submit a copy of your CV. You will be directed to our online hiring portal where you will be asked to create an account. Alternatively, you can request a paper copy of the application form by contacting us.
We advertise all our vacancies with a copy of the job description and person specification. These documents explain the duties and responsibilities of the role and the essential/desirable criteria: experience, qualifications, training and other requirements.
Here are some helpful tips to make your application stand out:
- Read the instructions carefully
Before you start, read through the entire form and any supporting documents. Make sure you understand what's being asked before you begin answering. - Provide accurate and honest information
Always be truthful about your experience, availability, and qualifications. If you're unsure about something, it's okay to say so - honesty is valued.
- Tailor your answers
When you are asked about your interests or goals, tailor your responses to show how they relate to the role you are applying for. Show why you're interested in working with the council. - Highlight relevant skills
Even if you don't have specific job-related experience, think about transferable skills you've gained through other roles, volunteering, hobbies, or group projects - such as teamwork, communication, time management, or problem-solving. - Check spelling and grammar
Take the time to proofread your answers. A clear, well-written application form helps create a good impression. - Ask for help if needed
If you are unsure about a question or need support, don't hesitate to ask a friend or contact our team - we're happy to help. - Submit on time
Double-check the closing date for applications and submit your application form early if possible. Late applications will not be considered.
Shortly after the closing deadline the interview panel will review all the application forms and decide whether to shortlist your application or not. We base this decision on the information provided and assessing it against the requirements of the role. We will let you know if you have been selected for an interview via email and if at any point you decide to withdraw your application, you can do this via the online portal.
If you are selected for interview you will receive a link asking you to select your preferred interview slot. You can also see the interview details, such as any preparation required, interview format and location.
Your interview is an opportunity for you to display how your skills and experience make you a good fit for the job. An interview is also a chance for you to get a better understanding of the council, work environment and culture to make sure it also fits your values.
If you are successful and are offered the position, the hiring manager will contact you to make a verbal offer. If you accept, you will receive a conditional offer via email along with a copy of your contract, medical form, reference request and personal details form.
As part of your offer we will need to carry out pre-employment checks. Your offer stays conditional until we have received the following:
- pre-employment medical screening
- employment references
- eligibility to work in the UK
- DBS check (if applicable)
- qualifications (if applicable)
Relatives of elected councillors or senior council officers
If you are in or have any relationship with a councillor or senior officer of the council, you must tell us when applying for a job. If you fail to disclose this information, you may be disqualified from your appointment. Councillors and senior officers must also disclose any relationship they may have with someone applying to work for the council.
You must not try to influence any councillor or officer of the council in relation to your job application. If you do so you will be disqualified. This means you must not seek the support or influence of a councillor or officer about who to appoint.
Disclosing criminal convictions
Under the terms of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, certain jobs need applicants to declare all criminal convictions/cautions, regardless of whether they are spent. If the job you are applying falls into this category, an offer of employment will need a satisfactory response to a check of police records via Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
Complaints
If you wish to make a complaint about the recruitment process, please contact us.
