CIEH supports LGA's 'Make a Difference' national recruitment campaign

The Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) has praised the Local Government Association's (LGA) launch of a national recruitment campaign aimed at strengthening the local government workforce. By emphasizing the crucial services on which residents depend daily, CIEH is particularly pleased to see the campaign’s promotion of careers in environmental health. 

The ‘Make a Difference, Work for Your Local Council’ campaign responds to the ongoing workforce challenges faced by local authorities, with nine out of ten councils across the UK struggling with staff recruitment and retention. CIEH has consistently advocated for increased resource for environmental health teams in local government. Our workforce shortage campaign is an essential tool for collaboration with key stakeholders across industry, including the LGA, to develop initiatives such as the Workforce Satellite Panel and Careers Materials Group. 

After a successful pilot in the North East of England, the campaign is now being rolled out nationwide, supported by UK Government funding. CIEH welcomes the new Government’s recognition of the essential role local authorities play in improving lives and supporting communities by supporting this vital campaign. 

Jon Buttolph, Executive Director of Professional Standards at CIEH, said: 

“CIEH is deeply committed to promoting the rewarding opportunities available within local government and in environmental health.  

“A robust environmental health workforce is essential. Without it, public health, housing, food safety, environmental protection and health and safety standards decline, impacting on the health and safety of society, particularly the most vulnerable. 

“We are proud to support the LGA’s campaign and look forward to continuing our work together to address workforce shortages in environmental health.” 

 Cllr Abi Brown, Chair of the LGA’s Improvement and Innovation Board, said: 

“Hundreds of essential services are provided every day by councils and combined authorities to keep our communities running and is great way to grow a career. 

“From caring for families and protecting children from harm, to ensuring your favourite takeaway or restaurant is safe and keeping our streets clean, there are a wide variety of challenging but equally rewarding roles on offer. 

“Working in local government offers unparalleled opportunities to make a real difference in people's lives and there has never been a more important or valued time to join.”