FAQ's
Your Journey to Join Us
We're actively seeking passionate individuals who share our commitment to making a real difference in Rossendale's communities. Whether you're looking to advance your career or explore new opportunities in public service, we want to hear from you.
This page is your complete guide through the application process, designed to set you up for success at every step. You'll find practical answers to key questions, insider insights into what we're looking for, and clear guidance to help your application.
We value the time and energy you invest in applying to work with us. That's why we've created this comprehensive resource – to streamline your experience, help you prepare effectively, and give you a genuine understanding of what it's like to be part of our team.
Ready to explore how you can contribute to Rossendale's future? Let's get started.
Can I be notified of future vacancies I might be interested in?addremove
Yes. When you sign up to receive Job Alerts we will notify you of new vacancies that meet your search criteria via email.
If you have joined our Talent Pool, you may also be notified directly by one of our team about specific vacancies.
Do I need to set up an online account to be able to submit an application?addremove
Yes. We encourage those interested in applying for our vacancies to set up an on-line account through our partner Job Train.
When you click "apply" to a vacancy if you do not currently have an account with us, you will be directed to set one up. This is a straight forward and simple applicant friendly process with step by step guidance.
There are many benefits to having an on-line account, allowing you to apply for vacancies including on your mobile device, track the progress of your applications, stay updated with important communications and receive job alerts.
How will I know you have received my application?addremove
We want you to have peace of mind that your application has arrived safely with us which is why you will receive an automatic email acknowledgement once your on-line application form or CV has been successfully submitted.
Can I part complete my application and return to it later?addremove
Having an on-line account gives you the flexibility to save as you go, and return to complete your application at a later time
How can I check on the progress of my application?addremove
Your online account gives you the flexibility to track your applications on your own time, view updates and receive email communications.
Will I be told if my application has been unsuccessful?addremove
Yes, all applicants who have successfully submitted an on-line application will be informed of the outcome of their application via email and once this has been reviewed by the relevant hiring manager if you have not been shortlisted.
Do I have to complete the supporting statement?addremove
The supporting statement is an important part of the selection process and is your opportunity to clearly demonstrate how you meet the criteria for the role. Remember, you can include any current or previous paid, unpaid, or voluntary work, or work at home, qualifications, interests, and training to tell us how you think you meet the criteria specified with your Supporting Statement.
We aim to foster an inclusive experience for our applicants and the Supporting Statement provides an opportunity for individuals to demonstrate how they might meet the criteria for the role by telling us about transferable skills and values not just experience.
All criteria for the role is set out in the Person Specification Document which is included with the Advert and Job Description.
How quickly can I expect to find out if I have been shortlisted?addremove
You will receive an email letting you know if your application has been successful or not, once your submission has been reviewed by the relevant hiring mangers. Internal guidance is in place to facilitate timely feedback once the shortlisting stage has been completed.
If you have been shortlisted for the next stage of the process, we will send you full invite details with your feedback.
What will the selection process include?addremove
Selection methods can vary but all of our selection processes would typically include at least one face-to-face interview. For added convenience, many of interview invites allow you to log onto the self serve calendar to choose a date and time that suits you.
For some roles we may conduct other types of selection suitable for assessing both the essential and desirable criteria in the person specification and to support decision making and which might be difficult through interview alone. These might include a telephone or video interview, online interview (TEAMS), an assessment day or other role specific testing.
We will communicate with you at each stage of the process providing you with everything you need including the relevant invites, guidance and supporting information.
What happens after I have been offered a role?addremove
Once you have received a verbal offer of employment you will be invited to join our on-boarding hub via your on-line account.
If you originally completed a short application form or submitted a CV you may be asked to complete a 2nd stage application form if for example we need you to provide information on your referees or DBS (Disclosure Barring Service).
In your on-boarding account you will be able to review and sign your new employment contract and supporting documents.
All offers of employment are conditional subject to satisfactory relevant pre-employment checks and the on-boarding hub allows you to provide the required information to enable our teams to get you started in your new role!
You will be sent a link to the on-line welcome hub once your on-boarding is completed and your start date agreed. The platform offers a fantastic hub of information getting you introduced to your service, colleagues and induction information plus much more including everything you need for your first day!
Will I receive feedback if I am unsuccessful at interview?addremove
If you would like to request specific feedback about the outcome of your interview this should be arranged and completed by the hiring manager. In the first instance, if you have the hirers details you can contact them directly for feedback otherwise you should email us at recruitment@rossendalebc.gov.uk and a member of the People Management Team will arrange for the hirer to contact you.
Our Commitment To You
Rossendale Council respects and values the individuality that every employee brings. We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds, who share our values, our commitment to inclusion, and who will help us on our journey to transform our organisation.
We always aim to provide a fair, inclusive and transparent procedure for the recruitment and selection of all employees, as well as ensuring the company’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion requirements and all relevant employment legislation are met.
What support do you offer for applicants with a disability?addremove
Rossendale Council is committed to recruiting and retaining disabled people.
Any applicant with a declared disability, who meets the essential criteria outlined in the person specification, will be guaranteed an interview. Reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process will be made where necessary to ensure that no applicant is disadvantaged because of their disability. In practical terms, this means that consideration will be given by recruiting managers to the accessibility of venues, appropriate methods of assessment, and accessibility of information throughout the process and they will make reasonable adjustments to accommodate people with disabilities wherever required and possible.
You can tell us about any reasonable adjustments you require on your application form or by emailing recruitment@rossendalebc.gov.uk.
Can I apply for vacancies if I have a criminal conviction?addremove
Yes, you can complete the relevant questions with your application form and relevant pre-employment checks are undertaken for successful candidates.
Do I need to have the Right to Work in the UK to apply?addremove
The Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006 requires an employer to make thorough checks prior to employment to ensure that prospective employees are entitled to work in the United Kingdom. You will be required to produce documentary evidence of your right to remain and take up employment in the UK. Further guidance will be provided should you be successful in appointment.