The Civil Service is seeking talented disabled students for a summer internship scheme that will provide new skills and work experience at the heart of government.
Although the 2010 Fast Stream summer placement scheme does not offer permanent jobs it is seen as a stepping stone for those seeking a career in the Civil Service.
Successful interns will work in a government department on tasks such as research helping to prepare policy documents, shadowing senior civil servants, and attending meetings with senior advisors.
Placements last up to nine weeks, and usually start in late June, with interns given a training allowance of £350 per week if based in London or £300 if outside London.
The skills and experience gained could lead to a career in the Civil Service and possible entry to the Fast Stream graduate programme, aimed at those with the potential to become senior civil servants.
The disability charity Scope is helping the Cabinet Office on the scheme, helping to recruit disabled people, providing support for disabled interns, and offering advice on reasonable adjustments and disability equality training for line managers.
Rhonda Calder, head of Fast Stream marketing and outreach diversity at the Cabinet Office, said: “Organisations that seek to include talent from as wide a range of people as possible ultimately benefit in the long term.
“This scheme will help these students make their first step on the career ladder and gain the skills and experience that could potentially lead to a career in the Civil Service.”
Applicants must be in the final or penultimate year of their degree, considered disabled under the Disability Discrimination Act, and expect to gain at least a 2:2 degree.
The closing date for applications is 4 January 2010. For further information, visit: www.civilservice.gov.uk/summerdiversity
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