The Government Communication Service (GCS) is the professional body for around 6,000 public service communicators working in government departments, agencies and arm’s length bodies.
Learn about the various career paths you could take within government comms from internal communications to national campaigns.
“Communication is changing fast. The transformative power of technology is creating new opportunities, challenges, and ethical questions but great people will always remain at the heart of our work.”
Simon Baugh
Chief Executive, Government Communication Service
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Working in GCS
To support the Prime Minister’s priorities, we need brilliant people – a skilled and diverse workforce across the UK that reflects the population we serve.
People work in government communications because what we do matters. We explain the objectives and policies of the government of the day. We provide clarity and reassurance to the public at times of crisis. We support businesses to grow. We protect our environment. We help those in need to access support.
What we do
- Inform people about legal or statutory requirements (tax returns)
- Help the public understand changing Government priorities (benefits systems)
- Encourage people to change behaviour (tackling violence against women and girls)
- Let people know about public services (encouraging voting or what to do in a crisis)
- Enhance the reputation of the country by promoting the UK to people overseas
Our Award-Winning Apprenticeship
A GCS apprenticeship will develop your knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to begin an exciting career in communications.
Our 18-month apprenticeship is aimed at all levels, ages and academic backgrounds. It will involve working in one or more teams across GCS with 80% of apprentices staying on in the Civil Service after completion.
You will be working towards a level 4 PR and Communications qualification.
GCS Disciplines
The GCS comprises a variety of different roles – from comms planning and strategy to videographers, data specialists and press and media management. Each role fits within one of the seven Modern Communications Operating Model (MCOM) communication disciplines or job families within the GCS.
Why Join Us
A tailored induction for new starters including in-person networking events.
A ‘buddy’ to help you navigate your first weeks and months in the profession.
A curriculum designed to support your continued development during your communications career.
Advice, support and opportunities, both on and off the job, from the GCS community across the UK and beyond.
Our Career Framework
The Career Framework is for everyone – from policy colleagues looking to move into communications, to existing communicators from central government, arm’s length bodies and/or devolved administrations looking to progress their careers.
Delivering World-Class Public Service Communications
GCS is behind many of the UK Government’s national campaigns. What could you create?
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Enough
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The Giving Type
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Stoptober
Blogs from GCS colleagues
From teacher to GCS apprentice
Mandi Johal, GCS Apprentice, Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, discusses her career journey from Primary School teacher to GCS apprentice…
GCS apprentice revisited: Amber Warne
Amber Warne reflects on her journey and looks towards her future in GCS.
5 Minutes with Fiona Richards and Andrew Darby
Fiona and Andrew who lead the Media Discipline across government, sit down for an interview.
Kick-starting my career with a GCS Apprenticeship
Sarah Baxendale writes about what a day in the life of a GCS apprentice involves.
5 mins with Zara Farrar
Zara, Deputy Head of Discipline for Digital, discusses digital communications.
Insights from an apprentice and their line manager
Paige Anderson and Tom Durham discuss development for apprentices.