Government Social Research
Government social researchers from all over the UK gathered at HM Treasury, Whitehall, in early April for the official launch of the Government Social Research (GSR) In-Service Fast Stream – currently available only to GSR members, and to which applications are now invited.
Chief Government Social Researcher Sue Duncan set the scene, telling those present: “The In-Service Fast Stream, for the first time, provides a dedicated route for social researchers to reach the highest levels of responsibility in the Civil Service – an opportunity long enjoyed by other groups of analysts in government.” Successful applicants can expect to gain experience of technically challenging and politically high profile work in a variety of contexts, to move posts more frequently and learn more quickly. As a consequence, they should be ready for promotion to Principal Research Officer sooner than they would otherwise, and be ready to take on a post in the Senior Civil Service a few years after that.
GSRU Head of HR Rebecca Laffineur then talked delegates through the application and Development Centre processes, followed by a presentation from Margaret Prythergch of the Civil Service Selection Board. Fast Streamers Lee Foulger and Katie Law of HM Treasury described their experiences, concluding that the assessment process was enjoyable as well as challenging, and identifying networking, control over work experience and good development opportunities as benefits.
A lively question and answer session raised a number of queries around assessment criteria, opportunities to prepare, and the work experience implications for social researchers workings in devolved administrations and the regions. Rebecca Laffineur explained: “These and other concerns will be addressed through the Fast Stream section of the GSRU website – we update ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ on a regular basis - and other communications. Applying to join the Fast Stream is a big step, and we’re committed to making sure that anybody interested has the information they need to make the right decision.”
For copies of the presentations given, please contact gsrcareers@hm-treasury.x.gsi.gov.uk. Applications for the GSR In-Service Fast Stream must be received by noon on May 19. Potential applicants are also invited to contact GRSU Careers direct by telephone (0207 270 5619) or e-mail (gsrcareers@hm-treasury.x.gsi.gov.uk) for advice and information.
