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Politician's assistant : Salary and conditions

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  • The range of starting salaries varies according to the role but is typically between £15,000 and £22,000 nationally (£17,000 - £24,000 for London).  Under the terms of the public sector pay freeze of 2010, those earning over £21,000 per annum have not had a pay increase since May 2010. Those earning under £21,000 have received an increase of £250.  
  • Starting salaries for senior posts requiring more experience also vary according to the specific role and location of the post. A senior case worker can expect to earn annually between £19,000 - £28,000 nationally (£23,00 - £31,000 for London) and an office manager, £26,00 - £33,000 nationally (£30,000 - £40,000 for London). 
  • Parliament-based assistants can expect to earn slightly more than their constituency-based colleagues. Although there are guidelines, politicians have some flexibility when deciding the salaries of their staff. See Working for an MP (W4MP)  for more details.
  • Working hours are generally nine to five, with extra hours likely at certain times, for example during the run-up to an election, when preparing high-profile legislation, and at times of national or political crisis.
  • The work environment varies substantially, with some assistants based at the political centre of their country or the European Union, and others based in local constituency offices.
  • There are part-time opportunities, and some assistants work for two politicians simultaneously.
  • The job may be stressful, particularly during elections, because of work pressures and job uncertainty, which is an ongoing issue. During parliamentary recesses, working hours are generally less pressured, except during the party conference season in September and October.
  • The job can be extremely rewarding and satisfying. An assistant’s enjoyment and success is significantly dependent upon their personal relationship with the politician and the dynamics between them are key for success in the role.
  • It is very important to be committed to the policies of the employing member’s party and membership is often necessary.
  • Travel within the working day is not common, but it will be necessary to spend time away from home for party conferences. Overseas travel is more likely for those working for MEPs.
 
AGCAS
Written by Andrea Gregory, AGCAS
Date: 
May 2011
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