Senior Software Developer Returnship Programme
The Government Digital Service part of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, is offering a Senior Software Developer Returnship Programme – a supported route back into digital roles for experienced developers returning after a career break.
This programme is designed for people who have previously worked as senior software developers, but have taken time away from the profession and are now ready to return, refresh their skills and rebuild confidence in a supportive environment.
A supported return to software development
This is a paid 18‑month returnship where you’ll be placed in a real delivery team at either the UK Home Office or the Ministry of Justice.
You’ll work on meaningful, user‑centred digital services while benefiting from:
- Structured onboarding
- Mentoring and peer support
- Training and development opportunities
- A supportive environment that recognises returning to work is a transition
What you’ll be doing
As a Senior Software Developer on the Returnship Programme, you’ll contribute to building, improving and maintaining secure, reliable digital services. You’ll work in multidisciplinary teams and help promote good engineering practices, while being supported throughout your return to work.
Salary: £58,511 – £63,343
Location: Home Office (Sheffield, Manchester or Salford) or Ministry of Justice (National)
Apply by: 11:55pm Wednesday 13th May 2026
Apply here: https://www.civilservicejobs.service.gov.uk/csr/jobs.cgi?jcode=1996304
Want to find out more before applying?
Join our Q&A session: Tuesday 6th May, 12:00 - 12:45pm - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/thinking-of-applying-returnship-programme-dropin-session-tickets-1987808302142?aff=oddtdtcreator
