Charity & public sector internships 2025

Internships in this space cover a wide range of roles: policy, research, campaigns, fundraising, communications, community outreach, and service delivery. In the public sector, you might work on government projects, local authority services, or public health initiatives. Charities often offer more varied, hands-on experiences, especially in smaller organisations.

Many structured internships (like those run by government departments or large charities) open between November and March for summer roles. Others recruit more informally throughout the year. These internships can be competitive—especially paid ones—so apply early, and show genuine alignment with the organisation’s mission and values.

Not usually. Charities and public sector bodies tend to welcome students from a range of degree backgrounds. What they look for is a genuine interest in public good, along with strong communication, organisation, and teamwork skills. Volunteering, campaigning, or involvement in university societies can really strengthen your application.

You might help write reports, support events, analyse data, draft communications, manage social media, or contribute to service delivery. Smaller teams often give interns more responsibility, while larger programmes may be more structured. Either way, you’ll gain exposure to how the sector works and the real-world impact of its work.

Yes, though progression can be less linear than in the private sector. Some schemes (like the Civil Service Summer Diversity Internship Programme) are direct feeders into graduate programmes. Even where it’s less formal, having experience in the sector—and making a good impression—can open doors and build a strong foundation for future roles.