Council work scheme is hailed a success

SIX people have celebrated their time working at South Somerset District Council with an informal reception for councillors and colleagues and a presentation of their work and achievements over the past year.

Chief executive Mark Williams presented each of the interns with a certificate to mark their time spent with the authority. The interns highlighted a rich variety of experiences with the council ranging from developing communication skills and knowledge of office systems and software, to learning about tenancy law, teaching bushcraft skills and even appearing on television!

Council internships offer a fixed-term opportunity for someone trying to enter the workplace for the first time or obtain professional development.

It is expected that work of meaningful value to SSDC will be completed.  There is no guarantee of permanent employment at the end of an internship.

The scheme started in 2012 through the strong commitment and backing of council leader, Cllr Ric Pallister, and the council’s management board.

Melissa Whittaker worked within housing and welfare; Andrew Craig in the finance development; Emma Baker in environmental health; Helen Harris within development control; Benedict Sayers in the heritage department;  and Oliver Edmonds in the countryside department.

PHOTO: Above from left, are Melissa Whittaker, Andrew Craig, Emma Baker, South Somerset District Council's strategic director for operations and customer focus Vega Sturgess, Helen Harris, Benedict Sayers and Oliver Edmonds.

Cllr Pallister said: "This was designed as a win-win initiative.  We have young people leaving college and university with qualifications but no experience to bring to a job application.

"This scheme offers them the first rung on the employment ladder after nine months genuine employment, not short term work experience.

"In the process the council has given them this invaluable opportunity and in return we have had excellent value for money.  We were determined to play our part in offering young people the opportunity to gain the experiences and new skills they need in order to gain long-term employment and that is being achieved.

"I hope and would encourage other local employers to follow suit and provide that same employment kick start.”

With this first year proving such a success for interns and the council, the scheme is to continue.  A placement with the Octagon Theatre has already been advertised and two more placements are to be offered soon.

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