Top tips on how to get a career in politics from a leading government minister is now the subject of the latest podcast from Connexions Leicester Shire, in partnership with the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) East Midlands.

Phil Hope, MP for Corby and East Northamptonshire, as well as Minister of State for Care Services and Minister for the East Midlands, reveals some inside secrets in a three minute interview with an animated online character.

Phil says: "People who get into politics don’t really get into it as a career – it’s more about getting stuck into your community because people who are involved in politics want to make a difference to their communities.

"I started my career in teaching and youth work and I felt that the people making decisions about my community were getting it wrong. That was my incentive to get involved. I became a district and county councillor, then was elected a MP and became part of government. It’s not the same for everyone – some people come from business, others the trade unions and all sorts of other walks of life. What unites us all it wanting to change the world around us for the better."

Mary Rogers, area director, LSC Leicestershire, says: "Phil’s message is that you need drive and passion to get on in your career. He has shown how he changed direction from teaching to make a real success in politics. I think that young people can take heart from Phil’s experience and recognise that whatever you want to achieve is achievable with self belief, drive and determination."

Rosemary Beard, chief executive, Connexions Leicester Shire, adds her support: "This podcast is a ‘must see’ for all young people considering a career in politics. Phil’s straightforward advice is sobering and he makes it clear that it’s a tough career to pursue. We hope the podcast helps bring them the success they want."

The podcast - funded by the LSC - is approximately three minutes long and downloadable from the Connexions website at www.connexions-leics.org