Assistant National Officer – Local Government Team

UNISON is the largest trade union in Local Government, with 600,000 members across a broad range of occupations and employers. We have the lead role in negotiating pay and conditions of service and equality and diversity, as well as devising and delivering national campaigns on policy issues relating to local government.

UNISON is also the lead union for police staff in England, Scotland and Wales with 38,000 members. UNISON is responsible for negotiating police staff pay and conditions and campaigns to promote the work of police staff. UNISON is also one of three unions representing staff working for the Probation Service and for the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (CAFCASS).

As a strategic centre we provide the necessary support and tools for our branches and regions to defend and promote jobs, services and pay and conditions at a local level and campaign with service users.

The role of Assistant National Officer is crucial to the work of the Local Government, Police, Probation & CAFCASS team and will work on a range of campaigns and issues. The post holders will work with National Officers, developing campaigns, producing materials, providing advice and guidance, carrying out research, organising training courses, meetings and other events, and the democratic structures of the union. They will link these activities to the recruitment and organisation of members and representatives. They will ensure the smooth running of committees and forums and will draft papers for committees.

The person

What we’re looking for

• Has a strong understanding of local government, police, probation or wider public service policy and delivery issues.
• Can quickly take ownership of established projects and progress work with minimal supervision.
• Has experience of organising, recruiting and delivering successful campaigns.
• Can provide high-quality policy advice, guidance and bargaining support to a range of stakeholders.
• Is an excellent communicator, able to translate complex information into clear and accessible messages for different audiences.
• Builds effective relationships and works collaboratively with colleagues, branches, regions and external partners.
• Has strong research, analytical and report-writing skills, with the ability to prepare compelling briefings and recommendations.
• Understands the challenges facing a predominantly low-paid, female workforce and is committed to equality, inclusion and member engagement.

Please refer to the job description and person specification for full requirements for this role.

To apply for this opportunity please download and complete the general application form from the UNISON job page, referring to the job description and person specification.

Please note that only the relevant application form will be accepted. CVs will not be accepted.

The completed application form, along with the Recruitment and Disability Monitoring Form, should be sent by email to Indira Patel at i.patel@unison.co.uk and quote reference BNE/52.

Please save each of your documents to include your full name, followed by job title, region/dept and reference.

Completed application forms must be received by no later than 12 noon on 30 October 2026.

In-person interviews will be held on 19 & 20 November 2026 at UNISON Centre, 130 Euston Road, London NW1 2AY.