Local Democracy Reporter Lancashire

What will the role involve

• A day in the life of a Local Democracy Reporter looks like this 

• Youll be covering the key business of Lancaster Pendle Ribble Valley Rossendale and West Lancashire councils as well as the political and social issues affecting their communities

• Making sure you cover the council meetings and key decisions in a timely manner

• You will build contacts understand and explore the key issues write features and break exclusives with your work having the potential to also be shown on the BBC Homepage and used by other local media partners

Qualifications :

Who are we looking for

• You are an NCTJ or NQJ qualified journalist ideally with 100wpm shorthand skills (or be currently working towards this) with an understanding and interest in the issues of your local community

• Previous experience reporting on local government/councils is highly desirable

• You have the ability to pull the stories out of the local council meetings that our readers want to know about

• A good knowledge of social media and how you can use it to drive audience and engagement from the people in your area is an advantage

• Youre interested in local councils and government keen to hold politicians to account and ensure the local communities are heard

• You are an expert on all things Lancashire and have a solid understanding of the patch you will be covering

• In order to travel regularly to the various councils this role covers you ideally have access to your own vehicle

Additional Information :

How well look after you

We take good care of our people - and that means more than just a pay packet. Whatever your role youll get a range of benefits including:

• 25 days holiday (plus bank holidays) as well as an extra day after youve been with us for three five and 10 years. We also have a scheme to help you buy extra holiday if you want to.
• An extra days paid leave each year to volunteer for a cause close to your community or your heart.
• Big moment day - an extra days paid leave for a moment that matters to you - like getting married moving house or welcoming a new addition to the family (human or furry!)
• Help saving for your retirement - well match your company pension contributions up to 6% and you can contribute through salary sacrifice.
• Supportive and progressive people policies - were proud to have a range of policies to support people in their lives in and outside work including enhanced family leave and policies to promote flexibility inclusion and progression. We believe you shouldnt have to wait to join us to know what to expect from us which is why we share this overview of the policies we have in place to support families and carers. If theres something you want to understand more about just ask - it wont make a difference to your application.
• A healthcare cash plan - giving you money back for a range of medical expenses and fast access to doctors appointments.
• Car lease scheme - you can buy a brand new electric or hybrid car through our leasing partner and pay for it through salary sacrifice.
• Wellbeing support - including a 24/7 assistance programme for you and your family.
• Access to lots of discounts - including 15% off with Reachs very own online marketplace Yimbly where you can buy everything from homewares to beauty products.
• Interest-free loans - including for season tickets and technology.

If youre excited about this role but dont tick every single box please dont let that stop you from applying.

We know that everyone has their own story to tell and we value potential passion and the perspectives that different backgrounds bring to our work.

Diverse perspectives strengthen our teams and help us better serve our audiences which is why were dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome and supported. As an equal opportunities employer we encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences.

We are committed to a recruitment process that is fair and welcoming to all without discrimination on the basis of age disability gender identity ethnicity religion or belief sexual orientation or any other protected characteristic.  

Remote Work :

No

Employment Type :

Full-time