Background
There is no real job description for special advisers and no hand-over process to ease the transition period.
Special advisers (spads) have had to find their own way, often through trial and error.
The aim of this work stream is to get a decent base of understanding on:
- the role of special advisers
- the key do's and don'ts
- potential pitfalls
- the key skills required for operating effectively as a spad.
To date our work has included:
- an introductory briefing for newly appointed special advisers
- a four part induction programme covering a range of issues and core skills for spads
- planning future sessions that are based on demand-led content for advisers.
Select committee submissions
The Institute made a submission to the Public Administration Select Committee enquiry into the role of special advisers. Our submission is available to download (PDF).
Publications
United We Stand (PDF)
One year On (PDF)
Oiling the Machine: thoughts for special advisers working in Government 2010 (PDF)
Not so special? Why we need a more thought out approach to special advisers, Zoe Gruhn, June 2012
A spad for all seasons: the reality for special advisers, Zoe Gruhn, May 2012
Special Treatment? Why the coalition is appointing more special advisers, Akash Paun, October 2011
Why special advisers are more than cabinet apprentices, Jonathan McClory, May 2011