uk resource centre for women in science, engineering and technology

Public appointments

Make a difference – join a Public Board!

Public bodies make important decisions that shape the quality of our lives and public services, and include organisations like the governing bodies of local hospitals, the Arts Council, advisory bodies or the Competition Commission. However some groups, particularly women, people from ethnic minorities and disabled people are under-represented on our public boards. By 2011 the Government wants to see women form 50% of new public appointees, disabled people 14%, and people from ethnic minorities 11%. Boards that have a diverse mix of people and talent make the best decisions.
 
Playing an active role in civic society through joining the board of a public body can be extremely rewarding, whether you want to expand your skills, are looking for a career development opportunity or simply want to make a positive difference in your community. Whatever your background and achievements so far, a passion and commitment for making a contribution in public life is more important than experience.
 
The UKRC offers support and training to women who are interested in joining public bodies. We advertise current vacanciesseminars and have a list of useful resouces and publications on our website.
 

 
The Appointments Commission
The Appointments Commission is the only organisation in the UK dedicated to public appointments, recruiting and selecting the best possible people for public appointments in all areas of public life. They work across all government departments including the NHS and handle more than 1,000 public appointments each year, representing around one third of all appointments regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments. 
 
Becoming a public appointee is an exciting step. Not only do you have the opportunity to help improve the delivery of public services but also the chance to develop your own experience and learn new skills.  They manage the appointments process for a number of government departments.  So, whether your passion is for health, defence, education or any of the many areas managed by government organisations, you will hopefully find a vacancy that interests you.  Visit the Appointments Commission website for their current vacancies.
 
More information on public bodies and appointments can be found on the following websites:
 
 
 



Level A conformance icon, W3C-WAI Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 1.0