At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals claiming benefits by providing guidance and building their confidence.
- Company: Join the Department for Work and Pensions, a key player in the Civil Service.
- Benefits: Full training, dedicated support, paid leave, and access to employee benefits.
- Other info: Ideal for care-experienced young people looking to kickstart their career.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a passion for helping others.
The predicted salary is between 35615 - 37016 £ per year.
Full time Office-based £35,615–£37,016 per year.
Application Deadline: 23 July 2026 at 4:00 PM
Looking to start your career in the Civil Service? The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is recruiting Work Coaches (Executive Officer) through the Going Forward into Employment (GFiE) scheme, exclusively for care‑experienced young people.
Job Summary
- Location: Croydon or Sutton
- Salary: £35,615–£37,016 per year
- Hours: Full‑time, 37 hours per week; working patterns agreed with manager
- This is an 18‑month, full‑time, office‑based role at DWP Job Centres.
As a Work Coach, you’ll support people claiming benefits by providing guidance, helping them build confidence, develop skills and move towards employment. You’ll work with a wide range of customers, offering face‑to‑face, telephone and digital support. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys helping others, has strong communication skills and wants to make a positive difference in people’s lives.
Full training, ongoing development and workplace support will be provided throughout the programme.
Benefits & Support
- Full training and induction provided
- Dedicated buddy and ongoing workplace support
- Learning and development opportunities
- Gain valuable experience in the Civil Service
- Develop coaching, communication and customer service skills
- Paid annual leave and access to Civil Service employee benefits
Please get in touch with your Career Specialist to apply and find out more.
DWP Work Coach (Executive Officer) – Croydon & Sutton (GFIE-497) in London employer: Drive Forward Foundation
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee development and well-being. As a Work Coach in Croydon or Sutton, you will not only have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of care-experienced young people but also benefit from comprehensive training and career progression pathways within the civil service. Join us to be part of a team that values inclusivity, collaboration, and personal growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land DWP Work Coach (Executive Officer) – Croydon & Sutton (GFIE-497) in London
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Drive Forward Foundation, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Drive Forward Foundation and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace DWP Work Coach (Executive Officer) – Croydon & Sutton (GFIE-497) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Drive Forward Foundation and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Drive Forward Foundation
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Drive Forward Foundation, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Drive Forward Foundation.
