Communications & Engagement Consultant

Our local authority client based in Sussex are urgently seeking an experienced Communications and Engagement Consultant.
350 a day Outside IR35
Requirements
This is a full–time hybrid role, for West Sussex County Council.
We are looking for a communications expert to consult on the development of an engagement plan for the SEND & Inclusion Change Programme. The consultant will advise on the effective creation and co–ordination of holistic messaging to embed new ways of working that will transform services for SEND support. This includes two DfE funded programmes that are running to Summer 2025. The consultant will work in partnership with key officers to engage with a broad audience of stakeholders including schools, professionals and parent / carers.
Statement of Works
Implement an effective approach for the Change Programme to achieve its milestones and objectives through communication and engagement Develop and co–ordinate communication activities and advise on the delivery of complex and varied messages via a variety of channels Collaborate with key officers to develop key messages in relation to the SEND & Inclusion Change Programme To advise senior leads on strategic narratives with stakeholders, partners and teams. Compile, analyse and produce intelligence to show impact and completion of objectives To align with Communications Standards and Guidelines To leave a sustainable communications approach for SEND & Inclusion to be managed as BAU
Experience Needed:
Experience of working in a communication or engagement programme during a time of change within local government or an Education setting Deciphering key messages from statutory information and conveying it in a compelling way through briefings, presentations, web content and other communication materials Collaborating with local government and education partnerships and handling difficult messages as well as sharing success in a proactive way Strong interpersonal and networking skills with the ability to build and maintain positive relationships with stakeholders Experience of using digital media to communicate with stakeholders
Please apply with your updated CV ensuring that any gaps in employment are explained.
At this point, may we take this opportunity to thank you for the interest you have shown in this role. Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications that we receive, it is not always possible to respond to everyone. Therefore, unless you hear from us within the next 7 days, your application for this vacancy will have been unsuccessful.