[Hiring] Local Democracy Reporter @Reach plc

Role Description

We are looking for someone to join us at DevonLive as a Local Democracy Reporter to live and breathe the decisions being made by Exeter City Council, Teignbridge District Council, and Torbay Council.

Your work will mean that everyone in and around Exeter, Teignbridge, and Torbay will get to hear about what their councils are doing in their name.

If you’re a politically-minded reporter, ready to hold power to account in the South West, then this is the position for you!

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

• Covering the key business of Exeter City Council, Teignbridge District Council, and Torbay Council.
• Addressing the political and social issues affecting their communities.
• Making sure you cover the council meetings and key decisions in a timely manner.
• Building contacts, understanding and exploring the key issues, writing features, and breaking exclusives.
• Your work has the potential to be shown on the BBC Homepage and used by other local media partners.

Qualifications

• NCTJ or NQJ qualified journalist, ideally with 100wpm shorthand skills (or currently working towards this).
• Understanding and interest in the issues of your local community.
• Previous experience reporting on local government/councils is highly desirable.
• Ability to pull the stories out of local council meetings that readers want to know about.
• Good knowledge of social media and how to use it to drive audience engagement.
• Interest in local councils and government, keen to hold politicians to account.
• Expert on all things South West with a solid understanding of the patch you will be covering.
• Access to your own vehicle for regular travel to various councils.

Benefits

• 25 days' holiday (plus bank holidays), with an extra day after three, five, and ten years of service.
• Extra day’s paid leave each year to volunteer for a cause close to your community.
• Big moment day - an extra day’s paid leave for significant life events.
• Help saving for retirement - matching company pension contributions up to 6%.
• Supportive and progressive people policies, including enhanced family leave and policies promoting flexibility and inclusion.
• A healthcare cash plan for medical expenses and fast access to doctor's appointments.
• Car lease scheme for buying a new electric or hybrid car through salary sacrifice.
• Wellbeing support, including a 24/7 assistance programme for you and your family.
• Access to discounts, including 15% off with Reach's online marketplace, Yimbly.
• Interest-free loans for season tickets and technology.