New figures published by the Government on 30 October show the Places for Growth programme has moved 24,621 Civil Service roles outside London since it began, passing its target of 22,000 three years early. The programme shifts government work to regional hubs across the UK, so that policy jobs sit closer to the communities they affect.

Most new posts are now regional

About 67 per cent of all new full-time Civil Service positions in key regional locations were created in those locations. Four in five civil servants are now based outside London. Ministers say the shift helps departments build lasting links with councils, businesses and local communities, rather than concentrating senior roles in Whitehall.

Senior roles and young talent

Progress on senior leadership is slower. Only 36.6 per cent of UK-based Senior Civil Servants were based outside London as of March 2026, against a goal of half by 2030. To widen the pipeline, high-performing officials will be seconded into mayors' offices, and a new Civil Service Fast Stream pilot in Yorkshire and Humber aims to let young people build a Civil Service career without leaving home. The Government links the programme to its wider devolution plans and to No.10 North, its northern base for bringing departments together.

What it means for jobseekers

For jobseekers, the message is practical: Civil Service vacancies are increasingly advertised outside London, including in regional hubs. Candidates should watch the Civil Service Jobs board and departmental careers pages for regional posts, and check whether a role can be based in a Places for Growth location before applying.