PUBLIC SECTOR

THE PUBLIC SECTOR

The Public Sector is a term usually used to mean services provided by government (central government or local government) to its citizens. Activities involved in the public sector include administering government programmes, public services and participation in government and the armed forces.

Source: New Economy Manchester's Policy & Research Team

Key Statistics

Distribution of Employees in the Public Sector

working within Greater Manchester, 20067

Employment Concentrations

based on numbers working in the Public Sector in Greater Manchester, 2007

Large or significant Public Sector employers in Greater Manchester include:

British Council - Government office

GMPTE - Public Transport

Greater Manchester Strategic Health Authority - Health Authority

Greater Manchester Police - Police

HM YOI Hindley - Prison

HM Revenue and Customs - Government office

Job Centre Plus - Government office

New Charter Housing Trust - Housing Associations and Trusts

Salford City Council - Local Government

Tameside Borough Council - Local Government

Source: Business Solutions, 2008

Employment Concentrations

based on numbers working in Public Sector in Greater Manchester, 2007

Forecast employment changes in Public Sector

in Greater Manchester, 2008-2013

Occupations include:

Building inspectors

Civil service administrative officers and assistants

Civil service executive officers

Conservation and environmental protection officials

Fire service officers (leading officers and below)

Local government clerical officials and assistants

Natural environment and conservation managers

NCO’s and other ranks

Officers in armed forces

Police officers (inspectors and above)

Police officers (sergeants and below)

Prison service officers (below principal officers)

Protective services and associated professionals

Public service administrative professionals

Public service associate professionals

Road sweepers

School crossing patrol attendants

Senior officers: fire, ambulance, prison et al

Senior officials in local government

Senior officials in national government

Senior officials in specialist interest organisations

Statutory examiners

Town planners

Traffic wardens

Case Studies

I wanted a role that was secure and that would give me the opportunity to learn a variety of office based skills. I saw an advertisement for the position of Administrative Assistant which required GSCEs in Maths and English at grade C or above. I had the right qualifications so I decided to go for it.

I really enjoy the work which can be challenging at times. The tasks I undertake include amending and deleting computer records, dealing with incoming and outgoing post, taking minutes in meetings and answering telephone enquiries.

I had a lot to learn very quickly but received some really good training in Microsoft applications such as Word, Excel, Outlook, Powerpoint and Publisher, as well as training in minute taking.

I’m hoping to gain some more experience in this role and then look forward to furthering my career in the public sector.

I applied for the national Local Government Graduate Programme because I wanted something that would offer excellent career prospects as well as being fulfilling and challenging.

The role has been just as good as I expected it to be. I have the opportunity to work on community development projects at different levels which are really varied. I have learnt so many new skills in a wide range of areas, giving me lots of options for the future.

As well as the great career opportunities this job has opened up for me, I get real job satisfaction as I know the projects I work on are making a positive difference to the local community.

For more information please visit New Economy Manchester (you will need to register with the site)