Benefits of Working for Us
Salary
We have a graded pay structure, and the salary advertised is
normally the ‘top of the grade’ for a fully qualified and
experienced person and shows the possible salary level available to
you in the future. As a rule, new appointments are made at an
appropriate level below the salary advertised. All salaries
are reviewed annually and any pay award takes effect on 1 July.
Hours of Work/Flexible Working
The authority has a flexible-working scheme based on a 37-hour
five-day week.
- the offices are open between 7am and 7pm
- core time (the hours during which you must be at work) is 10am
– midday and 2pm ‑ 4pm.
- the balance of hours is made up by agreement with your manager,
taking into account the manning needs of the section.
Some jobs require specific hours to be worked, which may include
evenings or weekends, but it is our policy to allow flexibility
where possible to help staff meet the demands of their home
life.
For suitable posts, some working from home may also be an
option.
Annual Leave
The basic annual leave entitlement is 20 days (pro rata for
part-time posts), plus 2 extra statutory days. The basic
entitlement will rise according to the grade of the post.
After 5 years’ continuous local government service, an extra 5 days
is added.
Pension/Life Assurance
All employees will automatically become members of the Local
Government Pension Scheme from the day they start, although you may
opt out. The scheme is based on final pay, and gives you a
tax-free lump sum on retirement, plus an index-linked annual
pension. The employee’s contribution is 6% of gross salary
and the Council’s contribution is generally assumed to be
two-thirds of the scheme costs. We also have a separate life
assurance scheme for our staff.
Essential Car User
Where a car is necessary to carry out the duties of the job, the
position will be classed as an “essential car user” entitled to a
subsidised lease car or cash alternative. If the job you have
applied for is in this category, it will be clearly shown on the
advertisement and the job description. You should be aware
that there are personal income tax implications if you have a lease
car. We also pay business mileage where appropriate.
Offices
The Civic Centre is a single modern block situated within easy
reach of the town centre and the station, and next to the
Stour Centre fitness and
leisure facilities. The majority of offices are open plan,
and a no-smoking policy applies. Our staff room has recently been
refurbished, and salads and sandwiches are available to buy at
times during the day.