DWP
Our Benefits

The Department for Work and Pensions is one of the biggest government departments, delivering vital services to some of the most vulnerable people in society. To make this happen, we need our people to feel their best and be supported in their work.

Show video transcript
  • 0:01 At DWP, we’re right at the heart of making a difference, helping people find jobs they can thrive in, looking after workplace pensions and the State Pension, and supporting over 20 million people through our social security system.
  • 0:15 When you join us, your work has a real impact every single day and you’ll get to enjoy some great benefits too. You’ll get a competitive salary, that we review every year, plus you’ll be part of the generous Civil Service pension scheme, with DWP adding to your pot too.
  • 0:33 On top of that, you’ll have the opportunity to receive rewards for your work, save money through our employee discount scheme, and you can even access season ticket loans to help with your travel costs. We know life isn’t one size fits all, which is why our colleagues can request a wide range of flexible working options.
  • 0:51 We’ve got you covered if you need time off for a new arrival or want to share parental leave. Plus, you’ll enjoy generous annual leave. All the usual public holidays and our special leave is here to help, if something unexpected comes your way.
  • 1:07 Your health and wellbeing matter to us. Our Employee Assistance Programme will be there whenever you need a chat, or some advice, and you’ll have access to our occupational health service too. Plus, we’ve got a fantastic network of mental health first aiders, ready to help if things get tough. And we even offer free eye tests and help with the cost of your prescription glasses.
  • 1:32 At DWP we’ll help you grow and reach your full potential, whether you’re keen to pick up new skills, take part in talent schemes, or dive into specialist training, there’s plenty of support here to help you shape your career, how you choose. DWP. Shaping the services that touch lives across the UK. That’s our purpose.

DWP have a broad benefits package built around your work-life balance which includes:

  • an occupational pension with an employer contribution of over 28% plus a range of other benefits – Civil Service Pensions
  • working patterns to support work/life balance such as job sharing, term-time working, flexi-time and compressed hours.
  • generous annual leave – at least 23 days on entry, increasing up to 30 days over time (pro–rata for part time employees), plus 9 days public and privilege leave.
  • support for financial wellbeing, including interest-free season ticket loans for travel, a cycle to work scheme and an employee discount scheme.
  • health and wellbeing support including our Employee Assistance Programme for specialist advice and counselling and the opportunity to join HASSRA a first-class programme of competitions, activities and benefits for its members (subscription payable monthly).
  • family friendly policies including enhanced maternity and shared parental leave pay after 1 year’s continuous service.
  • funded learning and development to support progress in your role and career. This includes industry recognised qualifications and accreditations, coaching, mentoring and talent development programmes.
  • an inclusive and diverse environment with opportunities to join professional and interpersonal networks including Women’s Network, National Race Network, National Disability Network (THRIVE) and many more.

Hybrid working

At DWP, we’ve always recognised the importance of work–life balance. For roles that can be carried out from home, we offer hybrid working and a range of flexible working options

Hybrid working is where an employee works part of the week in their DWP office and part of the week from home.  

This is a voluntary, non-contractual arrangement and an office identified as a base will be the contractual place of work.

While business need will be the main factor in deciding homeworking days, we’ll also take personal and other relevant circumstances into consideration.

If the role is suitable for hybrid working this will be clearly stated in the advert. Opportunities for hybrid working, will be discussed with you before you take up your post.

Talent and development opportunities

At DWP we want our employees to reach their full potential, which is why we offer a range of different opportunities such as development schemes and a variety of courses which can be accessed virtually or in-person. Some examples are:

Beyond Boundaries

Beyond Boundaries is a one-year cross-government development programme designed to help participants develop the knowledge, skills and networks required to build a satisfying and effective career in the Civil Service. 

Continuous learning

Across DWP we offer virtual learning sessions providing learning on different topics. We also support colleagues through a range of different professional qualifications.

Future Leaders Scheme

The Future Leaders Scheme (FLS) is a Civil Service accelerated development scheme for high potential senior managers. Through a blend of formal and experiential learning, participants are supported to drive forward their own development and aspirational goals. 

Leaders Like You

Leaders Like You is aimed at future leaders with the aspiration, engagement and potential to progress to a more senior grade. The scheme is tailored to individuals, with targeted career support from a cohort leader and a focus on their individual learning and development.

Mentoring

Our colleagues have a wealth of knowledge, capability and experience. We encourage sharing that expertise across the organisation for colleagues who are still growing in their careers. 

Operational Delivery Profession (ODP) Leadership Programme

This Leadership Programme is an exciting 3 year programme which aims to develop future senior leaders within the ODP.

Summer School

Our Summer School runs annually and provides participants with a range of activities, including the opportunity to work in a project group, to increase business knowledge and support personal development.

Apprenticeships

DWP value the role that apprenticeships play in developing capability and ensuring we have talent for the future. Doing an apprenticeship is a great way for our employees to develop new skills and knowledge or enhance those already developed while gaining a recognised qualification.

DWP offer a range of apprenticeships including operational delivery, counter fraud, digital, human resources, finance, commercial, project delivery, communications and occupational psychology.

“I can confidently say that I started this Apprenticeship Programme as a child, a scared teenager who didn’t know where life was heading and now before the Programme has even ended, I’m a young adult. I’m someone who will have the qualifications and the experience to go further than I had ever imagined.” 

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Social Mobility Apprentice

An apprenticeship puts you in a paid position whilst allowing you to study for professional accreditation, which then enables you to progress in your chosen field.

Find out more about the range of benefits offered by the Civil Service Pension Scheme.