Many UK employers, especially the NHS, local councils, schools, universities and charities, ask for a supporting statement instead of, or as well as, a CV. It is often the most important part of the application, because it is where shortlisters check whether you meet each requirement of the job. This guide explains exactly how to write one, with a structure you can follow and worked examples.
What is a supporting statement?
A supporting statement is a written section of an application form (sometimes called "information in support of your application" or a "personal statement") where you explain how your skills, knowledge and experience match the person specification for the role. Shortlisters usually score each application against the person specification criteria, so a statement that addresses every essential criterion clearly has a far better chance of reaching interview.
Supporting statement vs cover letter
| Supporting statement | Cover letter | |
|---|---|---|
| Used by | Public sector, NHS, education, charities, many large UK employers | Most private-sector employers |
| Structure | Follows the person specification, criterion by criterion | Free-form letter, 3–5 paragraphs |
| Length | Often 1–2 pages, or a stated word limit | Usually under one page |
| How it is judged | Scored against each essential and desirable criterion | Overall impression and fit |
Before you write: decode the person specification
- List every criterion and note whether it is essential or desirable, and whether it is assessed by "application", "interview" or both.
- Prioritise the essential criteria assessed at application stage. Missing one can mean you are not shortlisted.
- Collect one real example for each from work, volunteering, study or caring responsibilities.
- Check the word limit and any instructions about format.
Tip: paste the job description into our ATS Keyword Generator to pull out the key skills and requirements quickly, then turn them into your checklist.
A structure that works
- Opening (2–3 sentences): the role you are applying for, your current position, and why you are motivated by this employer.
- One short section per criterion: use the criterion as a mini heading (if the format allows) and give a specific example.
- Closing (2–3 sentences): summarise what you would bring and confirm your interest.
For each criterion, use the STAR method: the Situation, your Task, the Action you took and the Result.
Worked examples
Criterion: "Excellent communication skills, written and verbal"
In my role as a receptionist at a busy GP surgery, I handle around 80 patient calls and enquiries a day. I explain appointment options clearly, adapt my language for patients with limited English, and write accurate messages for clinicians in the patient record system. When the practice changed its booking process, I drafted a one-page guide for patients that the practice manager adopted for the waiting room and website.
Criterion: "Ability to prioritise and manage a varied workload"
As an administrator for a council housing team, I manage a shared inbox, schedule inspections for four officers and process repair requests. I use a simple priority system (urgent safety repairs first, then deadlines, then routine tasks) and keep a shared tracker so the team can see progress. Over the last year, I have consistently met our five-day target for logging and assigning repair requests.
Criterion: "Experience of working with children" (teaching assistant, no paid experience)
For two years I have volunteered weekly at my local Cubs group, supporting activities for 15 children aged 8–10. I help plan sessions, lead small-group activities and support two children with additional needs, following the leaders' guidance on behaviour and safeguarding. This has taught me how to stay calm, give clear instructions and encourage children who lack confidence.
These examples are illustrations; your statement must use your own true experience.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Repeating your CV instead of giving examples that prove each criterion.
- Skipping criteria because you have no paid experience; use volunteering, study or life experience instead.
- Generic claims ("I am a team player") with no evidence.
- Ignoring the word limit or pasting the same statement into every application.
- Using AI text without checking it. Every example must be true and yours.
Checklist before you submit
- Every essential criterion assessed at application stage is clearly addressed.
- Each example is specific, recent and true, with a result where possible.
- The employer's name and job title are correct.
- The statement is within the word limit and proofread.
Frequently asked questions
How long should a supporting statement be?
Follow the employer's word limit. If none is given, one to two pages is typical for most roles. Aim to cover every essential criterion rather than hit a particular length.
Can I use headings in a supporting statement?
Yes, if the format allows it. Using each criterion as a short heading makes it easy for shortlisters to score you.
Is a supporting statement the same as a personal statement?
Some employers use the terms interchangeably. A CV personal statement, however, is a short profile at the top of your CV; see our guide to UK CV format.
What if I do not meet all the criteria?
Address every essential criterion as honestly as you can, using transferable examples. Desirable criteria are a bonus, not a requirement.
Conclusion
A strong supporting statement follows the person specification, proves each criterion with a real example and stays within the word limit. Start by listing the criteria, match one example to each, and write in clear, specific language. For more UK application advice, read our UK cover letter guide.