The public sector includes government departments, local authorities, public agencies, and institutions that work to provide essential services and support to the public.
Many volunteering opportunities exist within the Welsh civil service and local authorities. The Welsh Government actively encourages and enhances volunteering in Wales through its Volunteering Wales Grants scheme. This scheme’s goal is to provide a more inclusive volunteering environment by eliminating obstacles to participation for people from all walks of life and age groups. The scheme encourages organisations to integrate volunteering into their operational practices and organisational culture.
Here are some key areas of public sector opportunities in Wales:
1. Government Departments
Various government departments at a national and local level in Wales provide opportunities across a range of fields, including policy development, public administration, finance, and law. Graduates can engage in areas such as economic development, education, healthcare, environment, and social welfare.
2. Local Authorities
Local authorities play a vital role in delivering services and maintaining public infrastructure. Opportunities exist in areas such as planning and development, social services, housing, transportation, environmental management, and community engagement. Graduates can contribute to the improvement of local communities and directly impact the lives of residents.
3. National Health Service (NHS)
The NHS in Wales is a significant employer, offering opportunities in healthcare, medicine, nursing, allied health professions, public health, and healthcare administration. Graduates can pursue careers focused on providing essential healthcare services, improving patient outcomes, and addressing health inequalities.
4. Education Sector
The education sector in Wales provides opportunities in teaching, research, administration, and educational policy development. Graduates can contribute to shaping the future generation by working in schools, universities, educational organisations, and government agencies focused on educational reform and quality assurance.
5. Law Enforcement and Justice
Public sector opportunities exist within law enforcement agencies, such as the police forces, as well as the justice system, including courts and probation services. Graduates interested in upholding justice, maintaining public safety, and working in legal and criminal justice fields can find diverse career paths within these sectors.
6. Environmental and Sustainability Agencies
Public agencies in Wales are dedicated to environmental protection, sustainable development, and natural resource management. Graduates can work in organisations focused on conservation, environmental policy, renewable energy, climate change mitigation, and sustainable land management.
7. Social Services
The public sector provides critical support to vulnerable individuals and communities through social services. Graduates can work in areas such as social work, community development, child protection, elderly care, mental health services, and disability support. These roles aim to improve the well-being and quality of life for individuals and families.
Exploring public sector opportunities in Wales not only opens doors to working in crucial public services and shaping government policies but also offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the future well-being of Wales. This sector is distinctive in its commitment to future generations, with legislation such as the Well-being of Future Generations Act ensuring that public bodies consider the long-term impact of their decisions. The sector is at the forefront of providing bilingual services and contributes to preserving and enriching the cultural heritage of Wales. Public sector roles offer stability, competitive benefits, and ample room for professional growth, making them a great choice for those who are looking to combine career development with an element of public good.
Case Study
Aberystwyth University
SOS, a non-binary, neurodiverse, mature postgraduate Creative Writing student at Aberystwyth University, faced employability barriers due to a lack of work experience and networking contacts. They also grappled with internalised stigma about their mental health condition, fearing potential employer discrimination.
From March 2023, SOS engaged in 30 one-on-one sessions with the team at their university, focusing on CV development, application support, and skill enhancement. Workshops attended included “Developing a Growth Mindset,” “Diversity and Employability,” and “Neurodiversity in Business.”
SOS’s participation in the programme led to an ABERforward placement with the university’s Accessibility and Inclusion team. This experience, combined with the support from the Career Readiness Support team at the university, inspired SOS to apply for a permanent role within the same department, highlighting the transformative impact of the programme.
“The Career Readiness Support has been invaluable. My Adviser’s assistance in securing placements and graduate employment, along with CV and LinkedIn support, has been instrumental.”