Health Policy
Fast Track Scheme 2022
Become a Leader. Make an Impact in Health and Social Care.
Reference: 157296
Closing Date: Monday 15
th
November 2021
Permanent Secretary,
Chris Wormald
I am delighted to sponsor the Health Policy Fast
Track Scheme, which provides an exciting and
unique opportunity for talented individuals who
wish to specialise in developing their careers in
the health and social care policy area.
In DHSC, policy is at the heart of our role. As
a central Department of State, we advise
Ministers in leading the health and care system
in England. We work flexibly to respond to
emerging priorities, embedding the policy
standards and tests in our work. We support
Ministers, including in their accountability to
Parliament; set direction; act as guardians of
the health and care framework and take action to
resolve complex issues.
About the Department of Health & Social Care
There couldn’t be a more exciting time to join DHSC as it grows and evolves, solves complex problems, and creates positive change for the
nation’s health and social care system. DHSC’s policies are vital to the functioning of the country, and DHSC will give you the opportunity to gain
hands-on experience of how health policy is developed and delivered by Government.
Whatever role in the department, you’ll be helping deal with some of the big-ticket issues of the day. Our work really does affect people in their
daily lives - helping people live more independent, healthier lives for longer.
Find out more about us by clicking the links
below:
• Explore DHSC’s homepage here
• Learn more about our priorities here
• Find out who our agencies and partners
are here
• Discover how we can work together to
improve health and social care for all here
What advice would you
give someone thinking of
applying to the Department?
"Do it! It’s such an interesting and eye-
opening time to join the department
and exciting to be a part of it."
Abigail Brown, HPFTS
Our Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion
DHSC prides itself on being a diverse Government Department
solving some of the world’s biggest problems. But to create a
genuinely inclusive work environment, we recognise the need to
continue to come together in order to identify and understand what
makes us similar whilst celebrating and valuing the differences
between us.
Our large number of staff networks, which are open for any
employee to join, help to ensure that the needs and voices of all our
employees are heard and play an important role in making DHSC a
truly inclusive, diverse and supportive place to work. Examples of staff
networks:
• Diversity Networks
• Faith Based Networks
• Workplace Networks
• Health & Wellbeing Networks
"In DHSC we recognise our
responsibility to address the
real inequalities that persist
across health and social care.
By ensuring that we fully
reflect the society we serve,
and that every single person is
able to give of their best, we
not only create a great place to
work, but we design and
deliver the very best solutions
to some of the country’s most
complex problems"
Shona Dunn
Second Permanent
Secretary and Diversity &
Inclusion Champion
About the Health Policy Fast Track Scheme
The Health Policy Fast Track Scheme (HPFTS) is a three-year DHSC accelerated leadership development scheme. The HPFTS provides
an exciting opportunity to shape and influence policies that will positively impact people’s lives.
• It will open exciting new doors and give you hands-on experience of working
in government, supporting ministers to develop and deliver policies that support
the government’s objectives, in an unprecedented time.
• You will have the opportunity undertake several placements based in either
Leeds or London, and to work closely with a range of stakeholders across
government, operations, Arm’s Length Bodies, health and care services and
Private Office.
• It offers variety: one day you might be leading briefings for select committee
hearings with Ministers and the next, you could be helping to improve the day
to day lives of people working in the NHS.
• The HPFTS will help build the skills you need to build a rewarding career and
become a top-class policy professional and health care leader, who makes
a real impact on people’s lives.
• The scheme provides a fully financially supported study package towards
a postgraduate qualification in Health Policy, undertaken in the 2
nd
and 3
rd
years
What are the highlights of the HPFTS?
“Working in Government, no two days are the
same – it is a very fast paced environment, and you
get to work on policy with a range of different actors
across government, from our arm’s length bodies
to think tanks and other stakeholder groups.”
Emma Simpson, HPFTS
What we are looking for
We believe the best policy professionals come from all walks of life. We want people who have a real passion for making
improvements across the health and social care area. You will need to be:
• A good communicator and be comfortable in dealing with ambiguity and
shifting priorities.
• An innovative leader and somebody who looks for opportunities to do
things differently, whilst anticipating economic, social and technological
opportunities and risks.
• Someone who enjoys working with others, has good influencing skills,
and can build collaborative relationships that balance challenge with
support developing trust and mutual respect across the wider health
care system.
• Able to use sound judgment and evidence to make effective decisions.
• Able to manage and thrive in an environment which requires the ability
to think and absorb information quickly.
• Someone with at least a 2.1 degree, in any subject. Current Civil
Servants, who have served their probation period can apply without a
degree.
What advice would you
give someone thinking of applying to
the HPFTS?
“Don’t worry if you don’t have relevant Health and
Social Care policy experience, the Department values
all different types of experiences and backgrounds.”
Cara Diver, HPFTS
Supporting your growth and development
Throughout your time on the Scheme, you will receive a comprehensive
learning and development package to suit your needs. We will facilitate your
development from day one with support from:
• Your day-to-day Line Manager
• HR Development Lead
• Staff Networks
• Mentor, who is a senior leader in government
• Coach
• Buddy from previous HPFTS cohort
• Your cohort of peers
• L&D Courses
DHSC is devoted to being a great place to work for everyone, encompassing
an inclusive culture where diversity and wellbeing are encouraged and
embraced. We are committed to supporting and enhancing a work-life
balance with access to Flexible Working. We also promote a large number of
staff diversity networks, which provides a community where differences are
valued. There is also the opportunity to use onsite facilities including fitness
centres and staff canteens (where applicable).
Was there anything that stood out about
the wider Department which attracted you to
apply to the HPFTS?
“It is really important to me that the Department places a
high value on diversity and inclusion, ensuring there
are a range of networks and support structures for people
joining the department from all kinds of backgrounds”
Ben Lewis, HPFTS
Benefits of joining the Scheme
As a Fast Tracker and Civil Service employee, you’ll be entitled to a range of great benefits!
Salary - The Schemes starting salary and pay band is HEO £28,966 (National) and
£32,792 (London). You will receive a small uplift in salary upon each successfully completed
annual assessment. Current Civil Servants at grades HEO or SEO above this salary will
retain their current salary. On successful completion of the Scheme, you will be working in
leadership roles within the £49,529 to £53,355 bracket.
Generous Annual Leave allowance - In addition to 8 public holidays , 25 days annual leave
on entry, increasing on a sliding scale to 30 days after 5 years’ service.
Pension - Your pension is a valuable part of your total reward package. A competitive
contributory pension scheme that you can enter as soon as you join where we will make
a significant contribution to the cost of your pension; where your contributions come out of
your salary before any tax is taken; and where your pension will continue to provide valuable
benefits for you and your family if you are too ill to continue to work or die before you retire.
For more details visit www.civilservicepensionscheme.org.uk
Season Ticket and Bicycle Loan - Interest-free loans allowing you to spread the cost of
an annual travel season ticket or a new bicycle.
We also offer interest free rental deposit loans and Financial discounts such as access to
an exclusive site for DHSC staff that provides employee discounts, including a Cycle
to Work Scheme, Charitable Giving and Recognition and Reward Vouchers.
Paid maternity and paternity leave,
which is notably more than the statutory
minimum.
Occupational sick pay
Meet our Fast Trackers
Joe Garvey HPFTS
Personal Profile
Role: Policy Advisor
Team: Public Health Systems
and Strategy
Directorate: Population
Health
Start date: September 2020
What have been the best three things
about being on the HPFTS so far?
Already I have had the opportunity to
collaborate with people across the health
and social care landscape, from CQC to
the local government association. On a
developmental note, the scheme really does
want you to succeed and has made it clear
to us that our development is of the
upmost priority. This level of clarity and
clear indication of investment is exciting
and rewarding to hear. Finally, having a
non-health related background, it has been
fun learning about the complexities and
interactions of the healthcare system – still
a long way to go yet though!
What motivated you to apply to the HPFTS?
The main motivations for me were two-fold.
Firstly, the ability to work in an organisation
which drives social change and has
improving people's lives at its core, is
a particular driver for me. Secondly, the level of
investment and training that the scheme places
in its cohorts are second to none. For my own
personal and professional development,
there is no better scheme.
What advice would you give to someone
thinking of applying to the HPFTS?
Have a clear purpose for why you want to apply
for the scheme. As much as the application
process is about passing the online assessment, it
is also about why you want the role and why you
want to work for DHSC. The civil service is a
diverse employer who want people from a wide
range of backgrounds. Do not fear if you don’t
have a health or policy related background, but
make sure you understand why you are applying.
Meet our Fast Trackers
Sarah Adams, HPFTS
Personal Profile
Role: Policy Officer, EU &
International Legislation
Team: Professional
Regulation
Directorate: Workforce
Strategy
Start date: September 2020
What type of work are you involved in and how
does this make a difference?
My role has involved ensuring UK compliance with
EU Law prior to exiting the European Union, and
subsequently ensuring we have appropriate legal
mechanisms in place to continue to recognise
European healthcare qualifications. I have worked a
lot on legislation and I’ve also been responsible for
writing guidance for EEA healthcare professionals
seeking to work here, communicating with
our regulators, and monitoring the impact of EU Exit
on our healthcare workforce. I definitely think my role
has made a big difference. The work I’ve been
involved with has been crucial to facilitating the
continuing movement of qualified professionals
seeking to work in the UK, and hence
to maintain a sufficient supply of EU health
professionals in the NHS and wider health and care
system.
What experience has been the highlight
of the HPFTS so far?
Two experiences stand out as highlights on
the HPFTS so far: seeing guidance for
European healthcare professionals I had
written published on GOV.UK, and hearing
that a piece of legislation I had
worked had on come into force.
What is it like working for the Department
of Health and Social Care and would you
recommend it?
I have loved working for the Department of
Health and Social Care, and I’d definitely
recommend it to others. I’ve
really valued working with such capable and
supportive colleagues. Everyone is so
dedicated to their work and has been willing
to help and to take the time to explain things.
The work is important and interesting. No
matter how busy I am, I really enjoy what I
do!
Meet our Fast Trackers
Scott Matthewson
HPFTS Graduate
“At the time of applying for the HPFTS I was an existing DHSC
employee and given the interesting roles I’d worked in, I saw the
HPFTS as a great opportunity to further learn about the work of the
Department broadly and progress my career. In particular, the
opportunity to complete a part time MSc over the course of two years
has been a fantastic opportunity to gain specialist skills in policy
making and the range of postings across the three years have
allowed me to apply these skills in a variety of contexts. The scheme
is a great option for aspiring health policy professionals.”
A Fast Tracker’s Journey
No two experiences on the Health Policy Fast
Track Scheme are the same, but we asked one of
our current Fast Trackers to share his journey
through the programme so far
Lewis Cox, HPFTS
Placement 1
Policy Advisor
NHS Workforce Education,
Modernising & Funding
"I worked on the new training
grants for nursing, midwifery and
allied health students, and, later,
the contribution of students to
the coronavirus response and
the continuation of their studies."
Placement 2
Policy Officer
Adult Social Provider
Markets
"I worked with national partners
and across government to test
and rehearse joint contingency
plans for major business failure."
Placement 3
Senior Policy Advisor
Occupational Health Policy
"I am currently working on
improving the occupational
health workforce which supports
people to remain in work.”
Annual formal assessment points take place at 12, 24 and 36 months
Informal checkpoints take place at 6, 18 and 30 months
The Recruitment Process
To apply for the Scheme, you will need to submit an online application by no later than 23:55 Monday 15
th
of November 2021.
After submission of your application, you will be invited to complete an Online Civil Service Situational Judgement Test (CSJT). This is an
online, multimedia multiple choice assessment. If you meet the required pass mark, you will be invited to complete a Civil Service Numerical
Test (CSNT). You will be provided with full instructions on how to complete these tests and have until 23:55 Monday 15
th
of November 2021 at
the latest to complete them.
If you pass the online tests, you will be invited to complete your full application which must be submitted by 23:55 Monday 15
th
of November
2021. Please note the test and full application deadline is the same, we therefore advise you sit these tests at your earliest convenience ensuring
you have sufficient time to submit your application.
As part of the application, you will be required to complete a Personal Statement (of 750 words) explaining your motivation for applying to the
Scheme. You will be asked to answer: What interests and motivates you to apply for the Health Policy Fast Track Scheme? (Maximum 375 words)
Describe the qualities you have that would help you develop a career in the health and social care sector? (Maximum 375 words).
If you progress onto the Pre-recorded Video Interview stage, this consists of a video-based interview where your answers to a series of pre-set
questions are recorded and subsequently evaluated by an assessor. You have 14 days to complete the Video Interview.
If you pass the above stages, you will be invited to attend an online Assessment Centre. The HPFTS Assessment Centre reflects some of the
key elements of the Scheme roles and full details of the assessment process will be made available to you in advance if you are shortlisted for the
Assessment Centre. Any reasonable adjustments will be accommodated at the Assessment Centre and throughout the assessment process, so
it's very important that you let us know if this applies.
We’ll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process: Leadership, Working Together, Communicating and Influencing, Making
Effective Decisions, Delivering at Pace, Developing Self and Others.
Successful candidates will be offered a place on the Scheme to join in September 2022. We also operate a Reserve List for 12 months, where
we may offer suitable applicants future, non-Scheme vacancies within the Department that require similar skills.
If you wish to receive a hard copy of the information, or in an alternative format e.g., Audio, Braille or large font, please contact:
Application
CSJT + CSNT
Personal
Statement
Video
Interview
Assessment
Centre
Offer
Recruitment Process Timeline
The anticipated timetable is below. Whilst we’ll endeavour not to change these dates, they are indicative only and could be subject to change. If
you are unable to meet these timeframes, please let us know by contacting Dohrecruitment.grs@cabinetoffice.gov.uk.Please ensure you quote
the job title and reference number in your e-mail.
October 2021 May 2022
23:55 Monday 15th November
2021
Advert Closing Date
W/C Monday 24
th
January 2022
Invite to Video Interviews
W/C Monday 21
st
March – Friday 8
th
April
W/C Monday 2
nd
May 2022
Offers to Successful Candidates
Online Assessment Centres
W/C Monday 7
th
March 2022
Invite to Assessment Centre
Successful candidates will
start in post in September
2022 subject to successful
pre-employment checks
FAQs
1. Am I eligible to apply?
This vacancy is open to all Civil Service employees
and employees of accredited non-departmental
public bodies (NDPBs) who were appointed on merit
following a fair and open competition; or were
appointed to a permanent post through an exception
in the Civil Service Commissioners' rules. It is also
open to external applicants who have a minimum
qualification of an undergraduate degree at 2:1 or
currently working towards and expecting to achieve
this by September 2021.
We accept applications from candidates with
overseas degrees, provided that they can supply
evidence that their degree is at a comparable level to
that required. The onus (including any costs) of
providing appropriate documentation is on the
candidate. The National Academic Recognition
Information Centre (NARIC) provides information
about the comparability of different international
qualifications. We would not normally ask for such
evidence until you had been declared successful: it
would then be required for our pre-appointment
checks.
2. What nationality do I need to hold in order to
apply?
To be eligible for employment in this Scheme, you
must satisfy both the Nationality and Right to
work/Immigration
requirements. Nationality requirements (Civil
Service Nationality Rules).
You are eligible to apply if you are a:
• British citizen
• European Economic Area (EEA)
• Commonwealth citizen
• Swiss national
• Turkish national, in some circumstances
Nationality requirements are explained in more detail
in the Civil Service nationality rules. You must also
have the right to work in the United Kingdom and
meet the Immigration and Visa requirements for the
length of the Scheme. Further details can be found
on the Gov.uk Visas and Immigration page.
3. Where will the role be based?
If you are successful, you will be based at DHSC’s
office in Quarry House, Leeds or Victoria Street,
London. Unfortunately, relocation costs will not be
reimbursed.
4. Reserved for UK Nationals
Certain posts, notably those concerned with security
and intelligence, might be reserved for British
citizens, but this will not normally prevent access to a
wide range of developmental opportunities within the
Civil Service. This is not a reserved post.
5. Civil Service Code
All civil servants are subject to the provisions of the
Civil Service Code that details the Civil Service
values, standards of behaviour and rights and
responsibilities.
For further information, visit Gov.UK
6. Is security clearance required?
Before the appointment of the successful candidate
can be confirmed, the Department will undertake
background security checks. As part of this, we will
need to confirm your identity, employment history
over the past three years (or course details if you
were in education), nationality and immigration
status, and criminal record (unspent convictions
only). Successful candidates will be required to pass
Baseline Personnel Security Standard checks.
Some posts may require additional clearance and
candidates should be willing to obtain security
clearance to Developed Vetting (DV) if required.
FAQs
7. What reasonable adjustments can be made if I
have a disability?
We are committed to making reasonable adjustments
in order to support disabled job applicants and
ensure that you are not disadvantaged in the
recruitment and assessment process. Reasonable
adjustments could include; allowing extra time for
assessment activities; ensuring that information is
provided in an accessible format or; by providing
training.
If you feel that you may need a reasonable
adjustment to be made, or you would like to discuss
your requirements in more detail, please contact us
in the first instance.
If you wish to receive a hard copy of the information,
or in an alternative format e.g. Audio, Braille or large
font then please contact
[email protected]ov.uk
8. Do you offer Guaranteed Interview Scheme for
Disabled Persons?
The Guaranteed Interview Scheme was replaced by
the Disability Confident Scheme in November 2016.
However, disabled applicants who meet the minimum
selection criteria in the job specification are
guaranteed an interview. Selection will be on merit. If
you wish to claim a guaranteed interview under the
Disability Commitment, you should complete the
relevant section of the online application. It is not
necessary to state the nature of your disability.
9. What do I do if I want to make a complaint?
The law requires that selection for appointment to the
Civil Service is on merit on the basis of fair and open
competition as outlined in the Civil Service
Commission’s Recruitment Principles, which can be
found at:
http://civilservicecommission.independent.gov.uk/wp-
content/uploads/2018/03/RECRUITMENTPRINCIPL
ES-April-2018-FINAL-.pdf.
If you feel your application has not been treated in
accordance with the Recruitment Principles, and you
wish to make a complaint, you should contact
[email protected]ov.uk in the first instance.
If you are not satisfied with the response you receive
from the Department, you can contact the Civil
Service
Commission at http://
civilservicecommission.independent. gov.uk/civil-
servicerecruitment/complaints/.
10. What do I do if I think I have a conflict of
interest?
Candidates must note the requirement to declare any
interests they have that might cause questions to be
raised about their approach to the business of the
Department. They are required to declare any
relevant business interests, shareholdings, positions
of authority, retainers, consultancy arrangements or
other connections with commercial, public or
voluntary bodies, both for themselves and for their
spouses/partners. The successful candidate will be
required to give up any conflicting interests and
his/her other business and financial interests may be
published.
If you have any questions about applying for this role please contact: [email protected].uk
This campaign is being run on behalf of DHSC by Government Recruitment Service. Government Recruitment Service is
part of Civil Service HR and is a central government expert service specialising in the attraction, search, selection and
recruitment of civil servants.
Our work is regulated by the Civil Service Commission where necessary and supported by the equality campaign group
Stonewall.
The Department of Health and Social Care is a Disability Confident employer.
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