If you are interested in applying for a job in the public sector, then it is important to understand the specific requirements of these types of application forms. 

The supporting statement section is the most important part of a public sector application forms. This is the section where you need to give evidence of the skills, experience and knowledge required for the role. How well you meet each point on the person specification in your supporting statement will determine whether you are shortlisted (invited to an interview) or not. It is very important to make sure that you address every single point mentioned. 

When formatting your supporting statement, you need to make it clear which criteria you are addressing. Dedicate a short paragraph to each criteria, or multiple criteria if you are using an example that effectively demonstrates more than one skill, experience etc. 

Using the STAR method when writing each paragraph will help you to demonstrate your competencies and provide detailed examples, rather than talking generally about a range of situations you have been in. 

Whilst they may seem time consuming, completing a supporting evidence statement will help prepare you for an interview for the role. Interviews will often focus on many of the same criteria points. This is your opportunity to talk more in-depth about what you have mentioned in your supporting statement and other examples. 

It is also worth detailing your interest and motivations for applying, as employers are also keen to know this when reviewing candidates. 

Keep a copy of your supporting statement and person specification and use these to prepare for the interview.