Press Officer
| Posting date: | 06 January 2026 |
|---|---|
| Salary: | £50,254 per year |
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 19 January 2026 |
| Location: | London |
| Company: | Government Recruitment Service |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | 438275/1 |
Summary
The DWP Communications Directorate team plays a critical role in managing the reputation of DWP internally with colleagues and externally in the media, stakeholders and to customers. The work we do makes a real difference.
Government communications exist to shape and deliver government priorities, working in collaboration with policy teams from ideation to implementation and delivery. We look at the most effective way to solve problems, manage risk and reputation while delivering first-class communications to the public.
The DWP Communications team works to build public awareness and shape support for the Department’s vision and initiatives through thoughtful communications, while also protecting the Department's reputation and helping to deliver change.
We use our expertise in audience insight and research to inform partnerships, campaigns, and policy, delivering change to improve lives. For example, as a result of the biggest ever campaign to boost Pension Credit take-up, nearly 60,000 extra pensioners are receiving support.
We are committed to making the DWP Communications Directorate truly inclusive and welcome applications from people from all backgrounds, including those who have not worked in the Civil Service.
About the role
Government press officers handle many of the news stories you read, watch, listen and react to every day. Working in a media team within Government Communications is an exciting, inspiring opportunity that will challenge and develop you as a professional communicator. You will be operating at the very heart of government, helping to shape news coverage on issues that affect everyday lives.
One of the main aspects of your role will be responding to incoming queries from the media and participating in the round-the-clock duty rota. This will involve proactively monitoring for breaking news and coverage that might require correction or clarification, providing swift and effective responses to requests for comment and keeping the department abreast of developments.
To be successful in this role, you will be confident in turning complex information into clear content that resonates with diverse audiences. You’ll be responsible for developing innovative communication plans across multiple platforms, beyond traditional print and broadcast media, working creatively with colleagues on digital and social media channels to reach different audiences. An essential part of this role is collaboration, and you will work closely with ministers, communication professionals and other stakeholders to create clear communication strategies and finalise messaging.
- Reactive media and press management – managing breaking stories, drafting and providing timely lines to take and accurate information to journalists, and keeping the department updated.
- Proactive media handling – drafting proactive press releases and communications handling plans that tells the government’s story in a clear and succinct way. You will work with policy colleagues and Special Advisers to agree key messages and plans to maximise ministerial time, including on visits.
- News management – the ability to quickly spot both potential problems but also opportunities to insert a government voice positively.
- Digital communications - helping government create, shape, share and exchange information through online and virtual networks.
With the support of an experienced network of peers and a strong focus on professional development, you will develop skills in line with these areas.
Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme