Freelance UX Researcher

Title: UX Researcher (Local Government Specialist)

Start: Monday 6th January

Length: 6 months (likely to extend up to 2 years)

Client: London Borough Council

Day rate: £500 per day (max)

IR35: Inside IR35 (Umbrella only, no Ltd or Sole Trader)

Hybrid working: Primarily remote

About the Role

Are you an experienced UX Researcher looking to improve the public services sector?

Join the team and work directly with a Local Borough Council, this role offers the opportunity to shape user-centric public services and processes across key council functions.

You'll play a crucial role in supporting teams across various council departments, including housing, social services, education, and community engagement. This position is ideal for someone familiar with the intricacies of Local Government, adept at navigating the challenges of public sector digital transformation, and experienced in meeting the Government Digital Service (GDS) standards.

Your Responsibilities

• Research Leadership: Develop and implement research frameworks tailored to public services, uncovering key insights to shape inclusive and accessible council services.
• Analysis & Insights: Analyse and synthesise research findings to produce actionable user stories and recommendations that align with Local Government standards.
• Methodological Expertise: Lead diverse research methods, from interviews and surveys to ethnographic studies, to understand user needs within the context of council services.
• Team Collaboration: Mentor and support other researchers, collaborating across disciplines to ensure cohesive and impactful research outcomes.
• Service Design Integration: Work closely with service design teams to ensure council offerings meet accessibility, equity, and inclusivity standards.
• Agile Application: Apply agile methods and principles effectively to deliver iterative improvements in council systems and services.

Requirements

• Proven experience in UX research within Local Government, ideally with specific exposure to areas such as housing, education, or social care.
• In-depth understanding of Local Government service design practices, including familiarity with the Local Council Manual for Research and GDS guidelines.
• Ability to lead and manage complex research projects, producing evidence-based recommendations.
• Strong knowledge of inclusive and accessible design principles, particularly in public services.
• Comfortable working with multidisciplinary teams in an agile environment.

What they Offer

• Competitive Rate: Up to £500 per day, inside IR35.
• Long-term Opportunity: Initial 6-month contract with a high likelihood of extension of up to 2 years.
• Hybrid Working: Remote-first with occasional team meetings in Central London.
• Professional Growth: Opportunity to work across multiple Local Council departments, gaining unique insights and advancing your expertise in public services.

*Rates depend on experience and client requirements