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Local Democracy Reporter

newsquest.co.uk Logo

Newsquest Media Group

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Location:
United Kingdom , Swindon

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Category:

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Contract Type:
Not provided

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Salary:

Not provided

Job Description:

We’re looking for an ambitious and curious Local Democracy Reporter to cover Swindon and ensure residents are properly informed about decisions taken by those in power. This role focuses on local government, public bodies and democratic institutions, explaining how decisions are made, what they mean for local people, and holding decision‑makers to account through clear, fair and accurate reporting. You’ll be based at our Swindon office, and will attend meetings in person wherever possible, including some evenings. This is a BBC-funded role, with your work being shared across several platforms, including the BBC, the nationals and other local news brands. You will be given support and development, including a structured induction and ongoing training, editorial, legal and digital support when needed, and opportunities to develop investigative, analytical and multimedia skills. You will have access to regular meetings and conferences through the BBC with the Local Democracy Reporting scheme, and opportunities to appear on TV and radio at times for wider BBC coverage.

Job Responsibility:

  • Cover council meetings, committees and public decision‑making, producing clear, accurate and balanced reports
  • Read agendas and papers in advance, spotting the real stories and explaining their implications for residents
  • Break exclusive stories and enterprise reporting, including investigations, follow‑ups and deeper dives into key issues
  • Build strong local contacts with councillors, officers, community leaders and residents, while maintaining independence
  • Write digital‑first stories using headlines, structure and context to make civic journalism accessible to modern audiences
  • Use multimedia where it adds value, such as short videos, images or explainers to help audiences understand complex issues

Requirements:

  • Strong reporting and writing skills with a commitment to accuracy, fairness and balance
  • Confidence working independently to deadlines and managing a busy diary
  • The personality to contend with pressure from stakeholders and readers on contentious issues
  • Ability to turn complex council business into clear, engaging stories
  • Digital awareness and an understanding of how audiences consume local news online
  • NCTJ qualification or equivalent (including shorthand at 100wpm), or solid equivalent experience
  • Drivers licence

Nice to have:

  • NQJ or senior qualification or equivalent experience
  • Experience covering councils, courts or public bodies (or a clear interest in this field)
  • Extensive experience working in a newsroom
  • Experience working on multimedia, including video
What we offer:
  • 25 days holiday + bank holidays + your birthday off
  • Holiday buy scheme for extra flexibility
  • Structured career progression & ongoing training
  • Pension plan
  • Employee Helpline counselling and advice
  • Gym membership
  • Cycle to Work scheme
  • Eye care
  • Retail discounts
  • Team building days & annual volunteer charity day

Additional Information:

Job Posted:
May 04, 2026

Expiration:
May 11, 2026

Employment Type:
Fulltime
Work Type:
On-site work
Job Link Share:

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