These pages provide additional information to assist you when applying for a job at the Council. This information should be used together with the vacancy application form, job description and person specification for the advertised vacancy.

Guidance notes on completing your application form

• The information you supply us with will be compared to the criteria set out in the person specification. Please make sure you include evidence relating to as many of the desirable and essential criteria as apply to you.
• Please read the job description, person specification and any other documentation you have been sent before completing the application form. Tailor your responses to the job you are applying for.
• Applications will only be accepted on the official application form. CV's will not be accepted as substitutes for the application form.
• We strongly recommend that you list your experience using the headings on the person specification and to provide specific examples when demonstrating your past experiences, skills, etc.
• Please include evidence of knowledge and skills gained through voluntary work, school / college, involvement in community activities, managing a home and special interests, as well as in previous paid employment, which is relevant to the job.
• Please include the names and addresses of two referees. The first referee should be your present or last employer. For those still in full time training, or a school, college or university leaver, your Head Teacher, College Principal or Course Tutor should provide your reference. References are taken up on all short-listed candidates. If you do not wish your current employer to be contacted, please tick the appropriate box on the application form. Please note we do not accept references from anyone related to the applicant.
• Please note, short-listed candidates’ qualifications and professional training may be subject to verification.
• Your application form can be completed either by hand or in type. Please use black ink as this helps us with photocopying.
• If you would like us to confirm we have received your application form please enclose a stamped, addressed postcard or envelope.
• Employment referees are asked for details of any sickness absence during the last 12 months.
• Please declare on the application form if you are related to a Councillor or member of staff.
• If you have any questions, or need further assistance with completing the application form please contact Personnel Services on 01803 861234.

Additional assistance

• If you are shortlisted and require any assistance with attending an interview or believe that particular arrangements may have to be made, please contact us.
• If expenses are payable for attending an interview this will be indicated in the letter inviting you to interview.
• The Council welcomes applications from people with a disability and disclosure of relevant information will not prejudice your chances of obtaining employment.
• The monitoring form will be detached from the application form upon receipt and will not be used in the selection process. It is used, however, for statistical and monitoring purposes.
• We endeavour to treat everybody properly and fairly. If you feel that we have not achieved this you can write to:
  
  Personnel Manager
  South Hams District Council
  Follaton House
  Plymouth Road
  Totnes
  Devon
  TQ9 5NE
  
  Your complaint will be investigated in accordance with our complaint procedure.

Definition of ‘related’

A parent, grandparent, partner, child, stepchild, adopted child, grandchild, brother, sister, aunt, nephew or niece of an existing Councillor and Officer, or the partner of such a person.