Local Democracy Reporter – Southend and Thurrock

The Southend Echo and Thurrock Gazette is looking for an outstanding reporter to lead political coverage within one of Newsquest’s fastest‑growing newsrooms, as part of the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.

You’ll join a highly respected team known for breaking agenda‑setting council stories and play a vital role in supporting the BBC’s public‑interest journalism programme.

We’re looking for someone with proven knowledge and passion for local government, strong reporting instincts and the ability to produce engaging, accurate and compelling copy. This role requires shorthand and a formal journalism qualification.

In this role, you’ll cover Southend Council and Thurrock Council and work on some of the region’s biggest news stories. This is a rare chance to join a successful title, boasting significant page views, subscription growth, and print audience engagement.

As part of Newsquest, you’ll be part of a nationwide network of trusted news brands providing 24/7 coverage to millions of readers.

This vacancy is offered through the BBC‑funded Local Democracy Reporting Scheme and is ideal for an exceptional, newly NCTJ‑qualified journalist or qualified senior reporter.

It is a flexible role that includes covering council meetings, some of which take place in the evenings.

Key Responsibilities

Cover local councils and committees across Southend and Thurrock, including evening meetings
Break exclusive and agenda‑setting stories on local government, policy, spending and community issues
Produce accurate, high‑quality copy suitable for publication across multiple Newsquest titles and BBC partner outlets
Build strong contacts within local authorities, political groups and community organisations
Work collaboratively with the BBC Local Democracy Reporting Service and the wider Newsquest editorial teams
Deliver content that drives engagement, subscriptions and readership growth
Uphold industry‑leading standards of accuracy, fairness, impartiality and ethical journalism

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

NCTJ Diploma or equivalent formal journalism qualification
Strong shorthand skills
Excellent understanding of local government, political structures and public-sector processes
Proven ability to write clear, engaging and high‑impact stories
Strong digital awareness and a commitment to delivering content that resonates with local audiences
Ability to manage competing deadlines and work independently in a fast‑paced newsroom
Willingness to attend evening council meetings as required
Work as part of our wider reporting team from our Basildon office – within easy distance for both Southend and Thurrock

Benefits

25 days holiday + bank holidays + your birthday off
Holiday buy scheme for extra flexibility
Structured career progression & ongoing training
Pension plan
Employee Helpline counselling and advice
Perks & discounts including:
- Gym membership
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Eye care
- Retail discounts
Team building days & annual volunteer charity day

About Newsquest Media Group

We are a media company with a difference. We are committed to bringing a voice to your region by investing in a passionate team of journalists who proudly serve their communities by sharing authoritative news that readers trust. Our sales teams provide local businesses with highly responsive digital advertising and marketing solutions.

We are one of the largest regional news publishers in the UK and have a portfolio of more than 250+ local news brands and magazines online and in print. With an online audience of 41 million users a month and 7 million readers a week in print, our content is read by a substantial proportion of the UK population.

In addition to our local news brands, we own several digital pure play and specialist media businesses such as s1jobs and s1homes, Exchange & Mart, and Newsquest Specialist Media. We also own LOCALiQ, an award-winning digital marketing agency that specialises in driving more leads, increasing online growth and generating return on marketing investment on behalf of thousands of UK SMBs.