The programme was announced as part of the Plan for Change on 16 June 2025. This scheme is designed to maximise impact by fostering invaluable skills and experience sharing.
What is the GovXchange programme?
The programme presents a unique and powerful opportunity for civil servants to undertake secondments to local or strategic authorities and for council officers to undertake secondments within the Civil Service – empowering our workforce, strengthening leadership, and driving unprecedented levels of collaboration.
Launched as a pioneering Test & Learn programme in September 2025, the initial phase will be concentrated in four strategic locations integral to delivering our Missions – Darlington, Leeds, Manchester, and Sheffield.
The programme is open to individuals employed by the local or strategic authorities and Civil Service who are eager to develop skills, gain new experiences, and make a tangible impact. It is open to a range of grades, professions and secondment arrangements, including short or long-term secondments, part-time arrangements or exchanges/job swaps, to provide flexibility for both the host organisation and the secondee.
In order to take part in the programme, you must be employed by the local or strategic authority or Civil Service and have the legal right to work in the UK. For secondments into the Civil Service, the Civil Service Nationality rules (CSNR) may apply.
How do I apply for a role?
If you would like to experience a secondment to strengthen our public services and your career development, submit your interest now by completing the Expression of Interest Form
Find out more information on the Civil Service Careers' website.
How do I advertise a role?
If you are a local or strategic authority interested in hosting a secondee within your team as part of the GovXchange programme, please submit details of the role by completing the form.