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What is involved

The most important part of taking up a public appointment is being prepared to give up your time, skills, knowledge and commitment. Some appointments require specialist knowledge and expertise - but many don't. Most appointments are part-time and need you to commit to two to three days per month plus time to read papers and prepare for meetings.

Why should I apply?

A public appointment gives you a chance to:

• give something back, contribute your expertise for the benefit of the community and help influence decisions that affect everyone's lives
• meeting people from all walks of life who also want to make a difference
• develop your career, gain a board experience and extend your skills
• return from a career break or maternity leave

Some appointments are paid. The vast majority reimburse expenses.
 

Am I suitable?

Public appointments cover a wide range of responsibilities. In general, the following are likely to be important:

• commitment to devote the necessary time to prepare and to participate actively in the work of the body
• courage to ask questions that no one else had asked or query why a certain approach is being recommended
• common sense to be able to assess the impact of decisions on all sections of the community and bring an independent view to the debate
• communication skills with the ability to listen and to express your views; to negotiate and influence and to deal with all groups, including specialists and experts
• clarity to assess a situation quickly, accurately and even-handedly; to think strategically and to see the wider picture

This experience could be demonstrated in your career or in a variety of other ways such as voluntary work.

Woud I fit in?

Applications are invited from people from all backgrounds and all walks of life.

Selection is based on merit and the selection procedures:

• are fair, open and transparent
• recognise non-traditional career patterns
• encourage a wide field of candidates from a broad range of backgrounds and relevant experiences

The Government is committed to promoting diversity in public appointments and applications from women, members of ethnic minorities, disabled people and other under-represented groupd are particularly welcomed.

What appointments are currently available?

The majority of public appointments are advertised online. For information on which appointments are currently available, use the link below:

• Public Appointments vacancies Opens new window