Public Sector / Government Internship Jobs in the UK
Want to contribute to the public good? Public sector internships give students and graduates experience working with local councils, national bodies, or charities funded by the government. Whether you're interested in housing, policy, education, health, or administration, these internships offer practical insight into how government and non-profit organisations operate. These roles often include project coordination, community engagement, event support, or policy research. Internships may be hosted by charities, councils, NHS bodies, education departments, or civil service departments.
Common Public Sector Internship Tasks
- Assist with service delivery or community projects
- Write reports and support documentation
- Help coordinate events or public consultations
- Communicate with residents or service users
- Conduct research on local or national policies
- Support marketing, comms or admin tasks
Who Offers Government Internships?
You might work with:
- Local councils (boroughs, county councils)
- National charities and NGOs
- NHS Trusts and hospital boards
- Educational institutions or local schools
- Central government-supported organisations
Common locations: London, Manchester, Leeds, Birmingham, Bristol, and remote.
Skills You’ll Develop
- Policy research & report writing
- Community outreach
- Project support & administration
- Communication (written and verbal)
- Teamwork across departments
Sample Job Titles
- Local Government Intern
- Policy Assistant Intern
- Community Projects Intern
- Government Outreach Assistant
- Public Sector Support Officer (Internship)
Why Apply for a Public Sector Internship?
These internships are a great fit for people interested in making a difference. They’re especially useful for students studying public policy, sociology, politics, international development, or communications.They’re also valuable for future careers in NGOs, local authorities, healthcare, education, and nonprofit management.
Filters
Featured Employers
FAQs – Public Sector Internships in the UK
Are government internships paid?
Some are, especially with local councils or NHS Trusts. Charities may offer unpaid or part-time roles.
Do I need a political science degree?
No, but a strong interest in public services and communication helps.
Where can I find remote internships in this sector?
Policy, research, admin, and marketing roles often allow remote work.
Do these internships lead to jobs?
Yes — many interns go on to civil service roles or full-time nonprofit work.
