The Civil Service in 2036

What Will the Next Decade Look Like?

New research from the Charity for Civil Servants reveals how civil servants are thinking about the future, from the impact of AI and changing ways of working to caring responsibilities, wellbeing and financial resilience.

As we celebrate 140 years of supporting the Civil Service community, we wanted to understand the opportunities, challenges and priorities that will shape the years ahead. That’s why we partnered with Newton to undertake our largest listening exercise to date.

The result is Survey 140: The Civil Service in 2036, a new report based on the views of 1,167 current, former and retired civil servants from across the UK.

The findings paint a picture of a workforce that is embracing change while navigating increasing pressures both inside and outside the workplace. From technological transformation to caring responsibilities, respondents shared what matters most to them and where they believe support will be needed in the future.

A workforce preparing for change

Artificial intelligence is expected to play a significant role in shaping the future Civil Service. While some respondents anticipate changes to the size and structure of the workforce, many believe AI will help shift focus away from routine administration and towards more complex, citizen-focused work.

The survey also highlights a strong desire for long-term thinking, with many civil servants identifying the need for greater focus on strategic delivery and future planning across government.

At the same time, respondents emphasised the importance of attracting and retaining talented people, with competitive pay, reward and flexible working arrangements viewed as key priorities for the future workforce.

A workforce preparing for change

Behind the discussion about technology and organisational change is a more personal story.

More than half of respondents said they expect to need support with caring for an elderly or dependent loved one over the next decade. Mental wellbeing, career transitions and financial resilience also emerged as important areas where support may be needed.

The findings are a reminder that civil servants face many of the same challenges affecting society more broadly, balancing work with family responsibilities, changing economic circumstances and the need to adapt to a rapidly evolving world.

Insights that will help shape our future support

For Charity for Civil Servants, the research provides valuable insight into how the needs of the Civil Service community are changing.

Whether it is supporting people through periods of financial difficulty, helping them manage caring responsibilities, providing wellbeing services, or assisting with career transitions, the findings will help us continue to evolve our services for the years ahead.

Download the free report

Download your free copy of Survey 140: The Civil Service in 2036 today, including:

• Insights from more than 1,100 civil servants across the UK.
• Analysis of attitudes towards AI, workforce change and public service delivery.
• Findings on wellbeing, caring responsibilities and financial resilience.
• Departmental, demographic and generational trends.
• Expert commentary from Charity for Civil Servants and Newton.

Stay Connected

Survey 140 is just the beginning of an important conversation about the future of the Civil Service community.

To receive the latest research, practical advice, wellbeing support, charity updates and stories from across the Civil Service, sign up to our newsletter today.

Together, we can ensure that civil servants have the support they need to thrive, whatever the future brings.

Our 140 survey partner

Newton is a strategic delivery partner to Government, transforming public services to be fit for the future. As strategic delivery partners, we work alongside the civil service frontline and leadership every day, sharing the Charity for Civil Service mission of supporting civil servants when times are tough. We combine data, technology, and operational insight to deliver measurable, lasting improvements.