
About the Programme
The Home Office is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. As part of this commitment, the Pathway to Employment social mobility programme offers paid, fixed-term roles to individuals from low socio-economic backgrounds who have been unemployed for three months or more.
This initiative, which we run in partnership with the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP), provides meaningful paid work experience, supports career development opportunities, and offers a potential route into permanent employment within the Civil Service.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, candidates must:
- Be put forward by their DWP Work Coach
- Be unemployed for 3 months or more
- Be from a low socio-economic background
- Have the right to work in the UK
- Meet Civil Service nationality requirements
Available Roles
Roles within the Pathway to Employment social mobility programme are available across the UK, with opportunities primarily in operational areas of the Home Office. Each position comes with a clear job description and outlines the essential criteria required.

Application Process
- DWP Work Coach identifies eligible candidates.
- Candidate completes the Eligibility Form.
- Home Office reviews and invites candidates to a light-touch suitability discussion.
- Successful candidates receive a provisional offer subject to pre-employment checks.
FAQs
Have you got questions? We’ve got answers.
Topics include:
- Contract type and duration
- Rights and restrictions under FTA
- Flexitime and working patterns
- Reasonable adjustments
Next Steps
If successful:
- You’ll be offered a Fixed Term Appointment (up to 18 months)
- You may be considered for a permanent role after 12 months (subject to performance and budget)
