Reserve list civil service cms dwp

[kafurufok]

Hi there, so I had an interview last week for Child Maintenance Service role for dwp in Leicester and 2 days later I got an email saying that I passed but they put me in a reserve list. The reserve list is until March 2026 so 3 months and half left. There is a timeline of the process in the job advert and it looks like they are following properly: Sift Period: 4 - 12 November
Interviews: 24 Nov - 10 December
Results/Offers: From 15 December
Security & ID Checks: 15 December - 31
January
Start Dates: From 2 February 2026
So now, looking at the timeline, I feel like I have only 1 month and half to get the position and Im a bit nervous as I do want the job. Just wondering what will be the chances to get the position in this short time~ :)

you have to be offered/ accepted the role but do not have to start within the three months. Do not hold out for a role and keep applying. Well done on the results

Hey I recently worked for the CS - the reserve list means you passed the interview but that others passed with higher marks than you (who would have been offered the job). Whilst on the reserve list you may be offered other relevant roles but it's not guaranteed. That's my understanding of a reserve list from having worked in the CS but it's worth a google

OP, there are two kinds of reserve list offers from the CS.

If there are lots of open roles, they sometimes put everyone who passes interview on the reserve list, and then make offers from it. If so, you should hear soon about an offer.

The second is when people are 'runners up'. Being on the reserve list means you can be appointed to other roles, without having to interview again. That normally lasts for a year.

It sounds like you are the first type of reserve list, and if so, congratulations, but worth checking if you are unclear.

If its for cms then youve possibly dodged a bullet.
They are a shower of cunts to work for. As are the majority of dicks you will be dealing with on the phone.