IPSA has done a genuinely impressive job of professionalising pay for MPs’ staff. As someone who started out as a parliamentary researcher on a salary that looks embarrassing by today’s standards, I think the organisation deserves real credit — these are demanding roles in high-pressure environments, and fair pay matters.
However, the 2026–27 pay ranges (see table below) raise a question that smaller agencies and organisations can’t afford to ignore: is parliamentary talent becoming too expensive to hire?
What IPSA Is Paying in 2026–27 (London Area)
Senior parliamentary assistants can now earn up to £64,677. Senior caseworkers up to £53,804. Even entry-level administrative officers start at £25,691 with a ceiling of £38,707.
The Post-Election Reality Check
After the last general election, I spoke to dozens of highly qualified former Conservative researchers who found themselves on the market overnight. Despite strong CVs and genuine experience, many expected to walk straight into roles paying £50k+. The reality for a significant number was months of job hunting — and some had to accept a sideways or even backwards step to begin a career outside Westminster.
That gap between expectation and market rate hasn’t closed. If anything, rising IPSA benchmarks are widening it.
What This Means If You’re Hiring
If you’re a small or growing agency looking to recruit mid-level hires from a parliamentary background, you may already be feeling the pinch. The talent is there — but the salary expectations that come with it are increasingly shaped by what IPSA pays, not what the private sector typically offers at the same level.
There are options. But it takes an honest conversation about profile, fit, and what you’re actually able to offer.
Thinking About Your Next Move — or Your Next Hire?
If you’re leaving parliament and want a straight-talking conversation about where you’re most likely to land and at what level, get in touch.
If you’re hiring and know your budget doesn’t stretch to IPSA-level salaries, we can talk through your options.
📧 info@door10.co.uk
