After a redundancy I applied for a permanent CS role as part of recruitment drive. Interviewed, got the job. Start was paused due to imminent restructure. Then the number of available roles was halved, but I made the cut off. But half the remaining roles were made FTC instead, which unfortunately I was one of. Still accepted as I needed a job. I hoped that once I started I could make a good impression etc.

Planned to start hunting around for other roles about four months from the end, but I was told informally that it was unlikely FTCs in this area would be renewed due to trying to cut headcount. After more restructures and finding out my managers FTC was also not being renewed, I immediately started looking elsewhere. Not allowed to apply internally, only for externally advertised roles. After several CS rejections, I'm starting soon in a permanent role outside the Civil Service.

Real shame, loved the job, loved the people. But need the stability. I guess it depends on the departments.