The John Clark Internship Programme has been created by Amy Callaghan MP in memory of her friend and SNP stalwart, John Clark.
After a successful first round which saw two individuals complete the 12 week programme, Amy is continuing the John Clark Internship Scheme to continue John’s legacy in politics.
John Clark was an SNP activist and campaigner, who provided Amy with knowledge and strength to be a successful activist and parliamentary member of staff. This internship programme is to continue John’s legacy, to equip others with skills needed to work in politics.
This opportunity will provide the successful candidate with experience of working life in a political office. Over the internship, the successful candidate will learn, grow, and develop a range of transferable skills.
Working pattern
This is a part time position. The successful candidate will be expected to work Mon-Wed 9am-6pm.
Additional hours may be required but Amy will be flexible with the successful candidate.
Key responsibilities
- Assisting/ learning how to manage constituent correspondence and casework
- Assisting/ learning how to monitor media coverage and brief MP
- Basic administrative support
- Learning/ assisting in appropriate research to assist with resolving casework, or parliamentary activities.
- Learn how to analyse, evaluate, and interpret data
- Learn how to draft local/national press releases
- Accompany the member to constituency and parliamentary engagements, including MP Surgeries and health policy events.
- Assist with arranging events; this may include compiling and managing guests-lists and providing on-the-day event support as required
- Log all cases; monitor progress and ensure all identified actions are taken
- Draft responses to constituents, including letters and email correspondence
- Ensure records are kept and information managed confidentially in line with the data protection legislation
- Drafting briefings for debates, statements and urgent questions, involving independent research and working.
- Attending policy meetings alongside Amy and note-taking.
- Undertake other general administrative duties in support of the Members’ work as required.
- There may be a requirement for the role holder to work outside of the normal working hours.
- The successful candidate will be expected to travel to Amy’s constituency for experience in both offices.
About you
Essential criteria
- To be considered for this role you must be able to demonstrate the following
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the proven ability to produce a high standard of written work.
- Experience in dealing with the public and confidence to deal effectively with constituents, outside bodies and politicians.
- The ability to deal compassionately and respectfully with sensitive issues on behalf of constituents.
- Excellent organisational skills, accuracy, and attention to detail.
- The ability to work under pressure to deadlines.
- A flexible approach to working with the ability to work as part of a small team and on own.
- Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications
Desirable criteria
- Experience of dealing with sensitive and confidential information
- An interest in and general understanding of the political scene in Scotland and the UK
- Knowledge of the East Dunbartonshire constituency
In line with IPSA pay scales for Internships 2024/25 (£22,308-£25,643 pro rata)
The successful candidate will be based in the Parliamentary Office at Westminster. There may be occasional travel to East Dunbartonshire when required.
To apply
To apply please send a CV and covering letter demonstrating how you meet with requirements of the role to amy.callaghan.mp@parliament.uk
Closing date for applications is at 12 noon on Friday 3rd May 2024. Interviews to be held on Tuesday 7th and Wednesday 8th May 2024.
