Internship (Policy and Research)
| Posting date: | 25 February 2026 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 22 March 2026 |
| Location: | Halifax, West Yorkshire |
| Remote working: | Hybrid - work remotely up to 2 days per week |
| Company: | Calderdale Council |
| Job type: | Temporary |
| Job reference: | CC745 |
Summary
Our vision for Calderdale in 2034 is for an enterprising place, full of opportunity, where we can all live a larger life. We will always be kind and welcoming. Everyone will have reason to be full of hope and this will enable us to thrive and get us through testing times. We will be celebrated for our distinctive heritage, nature and creativity that everyone can enjoy.
The Chief Executive is looking to recruit a passionate and committed intern to undertake research, respond to the fast changing internal and external world and develop policy and thinking that supports our aim to be known as a leading innovator in public services in the region. Over the next 12 months you will have the opportunity to support the transition of the Council and its leadership following the all-out elections in May 2026. You will also support work on embedding and delivering our long-term vision for Calderdale, Vision 34, as well as working with the Chief Executive, senior team and the Council’s Cabinet Members on the development and alignment of our strategic priorities.
This is a stimulating and rewarding opportunity for a politically astute individual who is interested in Local Government and wishes to learn more about how to make a difference in an ambitious Council. In this role you will brief the Chief Executive and council members on key details around legislation, emerging practice and leading innovation across the world. Through shadowing the Chief Executive at key events, and working closely with officers from across the council you will develop a vital insight into the function of the Local Authority and how the Council impacts upon those who live and work within Calderdale.
Applications will be considered from those who hold or are currently studying towards a graduate degree in a relevant area, who can demonstrate an ability to communicate to a range of stakeholders and have recent experience of undertaking research and delivering projects.
Closing Date: Sunday 22nd March 2026
Interview Date: Monday, 13th April 2026
This is a politically restricted post in accordance with Section 2(3) of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989, because of the nature of its duties.
We may utilise digital interview methods.
As part of our Vision (https://www.calderdale.gov.uk/vision/) we aim to be a talented, resilient and inclusive community. We welcome applications from all and offer a variety of flexible working / job share opportunities.
On 30 January 2019, the Council declared a climate emergency in a bold move to step up its action to tackle climate change.
Calderdale Council embraces the positive benefits of a diverse workforce and we are committed to providing an environment that is inclusive. We encourage applications from people who share our commitment to challenge inequality and promote diversity across Calderdale. We particularly welcome applications from communities that are currently under-represented in our organisation. All applications are anonymised before being seen by the selection panel.
The Chief Executive is looking to recruit a passionate and committed intern to undertake research, respond to the fast changing internal and external world and develop policy and thinking that supports our aim to be known as a leading innovator in public services in the region. Over the next 12 months you will have the opportunity to support the transition of the Council and its leadership following the all-out elections in May 2026. You will also support work on embedding and delivering our long-term vision for Calderdale, Vision 34, as well as working with the Chief Executive, senior team and the Council’s Cabinet Members on the development and alignment of our strategic priorities.
This is a stimulating and rewarding opportunity for a politically astute individual who is interested in Local Government and wishes to learn more about how to make a difference in an ambitious Council. In this role you will brief the Chief Executive and council members on key details around legislation, emerging practice and leading innovation across the world. Through shadowing the Chief Executive at key events, and working closely with officers from across the council you will develop a vital insight into the function of the Local Authority and how the Council impacts upon those who live and work within Calderdale.
Applications will be considered from those who hold or are currently studying towards a graduate degree in a relevant area, who can demonstrate an ability to communicate to a range of stakeholders and have recent experience of undertaking research and delivering projects.
Closing Date: Sunday 22nd March 2026
Interview Date: Monday, 13th April 2026
This is a politically restricted post in accordance with Section 2(3) of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989, because of the nature of its duties.
We may utilise digital interview methods.
As part of our Vision (https://www.calderdale.gov.uk/vision/) we aim to be a talented, resilient and inclusive community. We welcome applications from all and offer a variety of flexible working / job share opportunities.
On 30 January 2019, the Council declared a climate emergency in a bold move to step up its action to tackle climate change.
Calderdale Council embraces the positive benefits of a diverse workforce and we are committed to providing an environment that is inclusive. We encourage applications from people who share our commitment to challenge inequality and promote diversity across Calderdale. We particularly welcome applications from communities that are currently under-represented in our organisation. All applications are anonymised before being seen by the selection panel.
Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme
Disability Confident
About Disability Confident
A Disability Confident employer will generally offer an interview to any applicant that declares they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job as defined by the employer. It is important to note that in certain recruitment situations such as high-volume, seasonal and high-peak times, the employer may wish to limit the overall numbers of interviews offered to both disabled people and non-disabled people. For more details please go to Disability Confident.