Jessica O'ConnorA new internship programme aimed at increasing social mobility within the Civil Service will launch in 2026, giving around 200 undergraduates from working-class backgrounds paid work experience in government departments.
The initiative has been designed to address disparities in access to the Civil Service Fast Stream, where applicants from lower socio-economic backgrounds are currently less likely to secure places.
Set to open for applications in October, the programme will give students two months of hands-on experience in areas such as policy development, event planning, and ministerial briefings.
Participants will also receive mentoring and skills training, and those who perform strongly will be fast-tracked to the final stages of the Fast Stream application process.
Pat McFadden, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, said: “We need to get more working class young people into the Civil Service so it harnesses the broadest range of talent and truly reflects the country. Government makes better decisions when it represents and understands the people we serve.
“I want to open up opportunities for students from all backgrounds, and in every corner of the UK, so they can take a leading role at the heart of government as we re-wire the state and deliver the Plan for Change.”
