GovWire

The 2014 Civil Service Fast Stream report, published today, shows that:

• the proportion of successful applicants from ethnic minority groups is the highest weve ever achieved, rising to 14.2% in 2014 from 13.6% in 2013
• the proportion of successful applicants with a disability went up to 9.8% from 8.7% in 2013
• the proportion of successful applicants from parents with manual occupational backgrounds went up to 4.4%, compared to 3.7% in 2013
• 65% of successful applicants were educated in state schools

We are encouraging even more graduates from diverse and poorer backgrounds to apply for the Civil Service Fast Stream, which has opened today (1 September).

The Fast Stream programme offers talented graduates a quicker route to leadership and the opportunity to make a difference to peoples lives. Graduates receive a starting salary between 25,000 and 27,000 a year and could earn over 45,000 after 4 to 5 years.

The Civil Service has taken great strides to improve its diversity. Reaching out to under-represented groups is a top priority for all of its youth recruitment activity this year. Respecting and valuing differences will help to ensure that civil service policies and services reflect the needs and experiences of the people it serves.

The Fast Stream is the largest public sector graduate recruitment programme offering permanent contracts, employing over 800 people each year. Through 16 separate specialisms it enables graduates to start a wide range of careers in government.

The Fast Stream gives successful applicants an opportunity to be involved in solving the big issues that face the country. These include improving peoples employment prospects, widening access to public services and defending the country against natural disasters.

Minister for the Cabinet Office, Matthew Hancock, said:

We are building a one nation Civil Service that is more reflective of those we serve. We are calling on young people from all backgrounds, from every corner of the UK and those who might not have thought the Civil Service was for them to apply for our graduate programme.

Nobody should be defined by the circumstances of their birth and a one nation Civil Service will help every young person who joins the chance to reach their full potential.

Cabinet Secretary, Sir Jeremy Heywood, said:

The Civil Service needs leaders at all levels. Whoever you are and whatever your background, the Fast Stream will give you the skills you need to become a senior leader. If you think you have the talent and commitment to succeed, this is an unmissable opportunity to be involved at the heart of government in tackling the big issues facing our country and society.

To find out more about the Fast Stream and to apply, visit www.gov.uk/faststream.

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