Dr Sarah Wollaston MP is looking to appoint a reliable, proactive and hardworking intern in her busy Westminster office on a fixed term contract until the dissolution of Parliament in April 2015. The successful applicant will have the opportunity to gain experience in parliamentary research, briefings, event planning and a range of written tasks and to gain an understanding of how Parliament works.

The position would suit someone with strong writing skills who is able to take the initiative and proactively develop ideas to help Dr Wollaston’s work on a range of issues.

Main responsibilities will include:
• Researching issues in preparation for events and debates.
• Monitoring proceedings in Parliament.
• Taking responsibility for a number of issues and campaigns – monitoring and progressing Dr Wollaston’s work on them.
• Preparing summaries and briefings for upcoming business in the Commons.
• Assisting with research for written correspondence.
• Using a range of sources to write website pieces.
• Assisting with various administrative and diary tasks.

Essential qualities
• Excellent writing skills.
• Ability to take the initiative and work proactively.
• Strong verbal communication skills, good telephone manner and confidence in talking to external contacts.
• High standard of IT literacy.
• Ability to manage own workload and work to tight deadlines.

Desirable qualities
• Previous experience in Parliament or a similar organisation.
• Interest or familiarity with South Devon.

It is hoped that the internship will begin on 6th October and will be based on a fixed-term contract lasting until the dissolution of Parliament – expected to be in April 2015.