Where Could I Do a Politics Placement Year (UK)?
There are plenty of exciting opportunities across the UK for a politics placement year, depending on your interests—whether that’s government, policy, media, or international affairs.
You might consider working within the UK Government or Parliament. The Civil Service offers internships and placements in departments like the Home Office or the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office. You could also work directly with a Member of Parliament, assisting with research, constituency work, and parliamentary duties. Select Committees or All-Party Parliamentary Groups (APPGs) are also great for policy-focused roles.
Think tanks and research institutes like the Institute for Government, IPPR, Policy Exchange, and Chatham House often offer placements in political research and policy development—ideal if you’re interested in influencing decision-making behind the scenes.
Political party offices are another option, with roles in communications, policy, and campaign strategy. Most major parties have regional and national offices that welcome placement students.
Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and advocacy groups can give you valuable insight into political campaigning, lobbying, and social justice. Consider organisations like Amnesty International UK, Liberty, or Shelter for work in human rights and public policy.
Political media placements are also valuable—whether with the BBC’s political unit, Sky News, or in political journalism or PR. Some communications and lobbying firms also offer internships in political consultancy.
Local government can offer hands-on policymaking experience in councils or mayoral offices, while legal charities focused on civil rights, immigration, or constitutional law can bridge the gap between law and politics.
For an international angle without leaving the UK, you might explore roles at embassies, international NGOs, or London-based offices of global organisations.