New government scheme offers working-class young people opportunities in Whitehall

Bright young people from places like Blackpool have been shut out of the corridors of power for too long. Now, with a Labour government in place – one with more women, working-class people and northerners than we’ve ever seen before – that’s changing.

My dream of becoming MP for my hometown was dismissed on more than one occasion. How does a working-class lad from Blackpool get into Westminster? I’m proud to show young people here that it is possible. But the truth is, it wasn’t easy. And now, it’s about to get easier.

The government has just announced a brand-new paid internship scheme, designed specifically with working-class students in mind. If you’re at university, from a working-class background, and want to see what it’s like to help run the country from the inside – this is your chance.

Next summer, 200 students will get the opportunity to work inside the Civil Service on real projects, with real responsibility. From writing ministerial briefings to helping shape policy, it’s a proper introduction to how decisions are made in Whitehall. You’ll be paid, supported with mentoring and given access to training and workshops. And if you do well, you could be fast-tracked straight to the final stage of the Civil Service Fast Stream graduate programme.

Only 10% of Fast Stream applicants currently come from low‑income backgrounds – how can people in power make fair decisions for working-class people if they don’t understand them? This is why representation matters. And we all know that talent is everywhere – it just needs tapping into. This is the first time the Civil Service has actively tried to level the playing field and it’s long overdue. Applications open in October, and I’ll be sure to share the link when they do. If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible or what’s involved, my office will be here to help. You don’t need connections, fancy schooling or polished accents. You just need drive and a willingness to get stuck in.

I know the talent we’ve got here in Blackpool. I see it every time I visit a local school or college. We just need more doors like this one to be open to us.

In the meantime, if you’re interested in work experience in my office, get in touch chris.webb.mp@parliament.uk.