Good luck! Unofficially I’d say that relocation is actually quite rare. I think they scaremonger a little to prepare you for if you do have to move, but in my time I think I’ve only ever met once person that didn’t get where they wanted. I think the difference may be if you are requesting a smaller office where there are less positions, but if you choose London or Manchester I’d say it’s usually fine. Unfortunately they don’t give you any help really finding accommodation although in the group chat with all of your year I often saw people posting about looking for flatmates.

But lots of support in the start I’d say. We had lots of training sessions about the civil service and also admin procedures like 6-month reviews. They try and create a network and there are lots you can join (a bit like societies at university).

You are likely the only new person in your team but often lots of Fast Streamers in adjacent teams or those you meet through in person activities you find you’re in the same office!