Communications and Social Change Graduate

Somerset Council; Taunton; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

28 days’ annual leave

LGPS

Flexible and hybrid working

Health and wellbeing support

Volunteer opportunities

Job summary

Somerset Council is recruiting a Communications and Social Change Graduate to support flood resilience communications and engagement. You will gain hands-on experience across campaigns, behaviour change initiatives and stakeholder collaboration within a multi‑agency programme.

You'll contribute from day one, developing skills in communications, community engagement and project delivery while working in a supportive team focused on communities, environment and resilience across Somerset.

Qualifications

• A relevant degree or equivalent qualification, with a classification of at least 2:2 (obtained within the last 3 years).
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage a range of audiences.
• Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
• Experience of undertaking research, analysing information and presenting findings clearly.
• Good IT and digital skills, with confidence using a range of systems and tools.
• Ability to build effective working relationships and work collaboratively with colleagues and stakeholders.
• An understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion and a commitment to these values.

Responsibilities

• Support the planning and delivery of communication and engagement campaigns.
• Help develop and promote behaviour change initiatives that encourage community flood resilience.
• Carry out research, analysis and insight gathering to inform projects and communications activities.
• Support the coordination and administration of programme activities and projects.
• Build positive relationships with colleagues, partners, stakeholders and community groups.
• Contribute to service improvements by supporting new initiatives and ways of working.

Skills

Strong communication and interpersonal

Research and analytical

Independent working and prioritisation

IT and digital skills

Stakeholder engagement

Equality and inclusion awareness

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent (2:2+)

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Salary: Grade 12 - £29,542 per annum, increasing in set increments as per the Graduate Scheme, to a final salary of Grade 11 - £33,673 per annum

Hours: Full-time, 37 hours per week

Contract: This is a fixed-term opportunity for a period of two years as part of Somerset Council's Graduate Scheme

Closing date: 15 October 2026

Looking to start your career in communications and behaviour change while making a real difference to communities across Somerset?

This is an exciting opportunity to join Somerset Council's Flood Resilience Programme Team and gain hands‑on experience supporting a high‑profile, multi‑agency programme focused on reducing flood risk and building long‑term resilience.

You’ll work alongside experienced professionals, developing practical skills in communications, community engagement, behaviour change campaigns and stakeholder collaboration. You'll be involved in meaningful work from day one, helping to shape projects that support communities, the environment and Somerset's future resilience, while receiving the support and experience needed to build a successful career.

About The Role

As a Communications and Social Change Graduate, you'll support the delivery of communications, engagement activities and behaviour change initiatives that help communities become better prepared for flooding and climate‑related challenges. You'll gain valuable experience working on a wide range of projects, supporting programme delivery while developing your skills and knowledge within a supportive team environment.

How You'll Make a Difference

• Support the planning and delivery of communication and engagement campaigns.
• Help develop and promote behaviour change initiatives that encourage community flood resilience.
• Carry out research, analysis and insight gathering to inform projects and communications activities.
• Support the coordination and administration of programme activities and projects.
• Build positive relationships with colleagues, partners, stakeholders and community groups.
• Contribute to service improvements by supporting new initiatives and ways of working.

What You'll Bring

• A relevant degree or equivalent qualification, with a classification of at least 2:2 (obtained within the last 3 years).
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage a range of audiences.
• The ability to work independently, manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
• Experience of undertaking research, analysing information and presenting findings clearly.
• Good IT and digital skills, with confidence using a range of systems and tools.
• The ability to build effective working relationships and work collaboratively with colleagues and stakeholders.
• An understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion and a commitment to these values.

Why Join Us?

At Somerset Council, we're a progressive organisation committed to improving lives and shaping better services for our communities. Based in one of England's most beautiful counties, it's a great place to build your career and enjoy an excellent quality of life.

• 28 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase additional leave.
• Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), one of the UK's most enhanced and secure pension schemes.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements to support work‑life balance, where service needs allow.
• Health and wellbeing support, including access to confidential employee assistance services.
• Paid volunteering opportunities, helping you make a difference both inside and outside of work.

Find Out More About Working At Somerset Council

https://www.somerset.gov.uk/jobs-and-careers/working-at-somerset-council/

Further Information

• We offer flexible and hybrid working arrangements to support a healthy work-life balance.
• This is a two-year fixed-term contract.
• Professional Development Plan will be provided across the two years; including cohort training sessions around skill development and reflective practice.
• Unfortunately, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role.

We believe diversity makes us stronger and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences, whose unique perspectives help us better serve the people of Somerset.

For an informal chat about the role, you can contact James Divall (Head of Service: Climate and Natural Environment) on [e-mail]

You can find a copy of the job description here: AG1122 General Graduate.pdf

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