LGA Impact - Graduate Local Government Programme

Who we are

Impact is a fast-track graduate programme for bright and passionate individuals who want to make a difference while excelling in their own careers. It offers the chance to work directly with communities, but also to influence policies and plans at a senior level. All while earning a graduate salary and completing our council-specific leadership and management qualification.

It won’t be easy: the sector is facing incredible challenges in an ever-changing world. But that is why councils need your enthusiasm, fresh ideas and passion. You will have the support of colleagues who are driven by the same desire to make a difference, and will gain resilience alongside your cohort of like-minded graduates placed in councils across the country at the same time. 

Do you want to make an impact in local government whilst having a positive impact on your own future? Then why not join us to kick-start a meaningful, successful career in the public sector. 

What to expect

• If you're successful at interview, you will work as the employee of that council on a minimum two-year fixed-term contract.
• During this time, you will rotate between three to four different placements to gain a wide range of experience and skills.
• Placements usually cover strategic or corporate functions such as the chief executive's office, projects relating to frontline services such as social care or housing, and back-office areas such as HR, law, and finance. Often they combine these work areas around specific projects.
• Many councils have an open conversation with trainees about their work preferences as the two years progress, guiding what placements you select.
• You'll have the opportunity to earn a fully funded CMI Level 7 Qualification in Leadership and Management which has been designed specifically to equip trainees as leaders within the public sector.

Eligibility

• A minimum 2:2 undergraduate degree by August 2025.
• You must have the right to work in the UK for the duration of the two-year programme. Unfortunately, we are not able to sponsor visas.