GCS ‘Buddy’ Scheme

Would you like to be a buddy to a new starter or are you a new starter who would value the advice, tips and insights of a GCS buddy?

Joining a new organisation can be daunting, whether you’re transferring from another government organisation to another or are completely new to the civil service.

We believe that it benefits new starters to have a buddy outside of one’s own line management chain when settling into a new environment and role. The idea of a buddy is to provide a friendly face and answer those ‘silly questions’ about the GCS, new office location and general expectations. 

What’s more, being a buddy to somebody will usually count towards your corporate contribution (for organisations who have this requirement) and is a great way to give back to your Profession. This task can be as small or big as you’d like to make it – anything from a friendly email, to a full building tour – the idea being to be a helping hand in settling in a new colleague. 

If you are interested in being a buddy please let your Director of Comms (or equivalent senior manager) and/or Head of Profession know and they will then be able to match you with new starters who request a buddy.

If you are a new starter and would like a buddy to help you navigate your first few weeks here, please get in touch with your line manager who will be able to find you somebody appropriate by speaking to your Director of Comms or Head of Discipline.