Communications and public affairs officer jobs
Employer: Community Rail Network
Salary: £43k-£51.5k pa, full time
Location: Home based / flexible or Huddersfield
We are seeking a dynamic director of policy and communications, to lead and develop our increasingly impactful external affairs activity. You’ll be sharing community insights and evidence with policy and decision-makers at national and devolved level, supporting a shift towards more inclusive and sustainable transport and mobility, while overseeing high-quality, inspiring member communications and thought-leadership, drawing on grassroots experiences.
About us
Community Rail Network is a national not-for-profit organisation supporting a growing ‘community rail’ movement, which helps communities get the most from their railways, promotes sustainable and inclusive travel, coordinates volunteering and place-making, and brings people together.
Community rail is made up of 76 community-based partnership organisations, and c.1,300 station friends volunteer groups and other community-led initiatives around Britain. Their activities range from creative projects for young people, to advising train operators on service improvements, to building travel confidence among marginalised groups, to biodiversity projects at stations, to promoting greener tourism by rail.
Our enthusiastic team of 24 works from home in different locations, but we come together regularly in person and online. We work collaboratively to support our members, provide training, events and resources, run campaigns, and champion community rail and its insights. We believe in developing our team and helping everyone reach their potential while having a good work-life balance.
About this role
This role is crucial for us, our members and their communities, especially at the current time, with our need to seize on the opportunities of rail reform and devolution, promote wider use of sustainable transport, and bring communities together. You will spearhead our external affairs strategy and plans, building political relationships, influencing decision-making and raising awareness of community rail and its insights, while ensuring effective communications with our members and helping them to have a voice locally and regionally. You’ll be striving to put community rail at the forefront of a shift towards more inclusive and sustainable mobility.
As a member of our senior leadership team, reporting to and working closely with our chief executive, you will manage a passionate team of four, ensuring collaboration with our other teams, partners and funders, and drawing on members’ insights.
Main responsibilities
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Lead the review, development and delivery of our communications, policy and insights strategy, working to position the community rail movement effectively, use its insights to influence policy change, and ensure our members are well-informed and have a voice;
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Further strengthen our advisory and influencing work with national, devolved and regional government, transport bodies, parliamentarians and other decision-makers, especially around rail reform, transport devolution and integrated, inclusive, sustainable transport;
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Ensure we’re engaging effectively with policy developments and opportunities, taking forward a programme of relationship-building, and identifying and engaging in relevant consultations, events and speaking opportunities, enabling community rail’s insights and experiences to be shared;
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Collaborate with partners in rail, government and the third sector to feed in our expertise on community engagement with rail, amplify our campaigns, and build opportunities for joined-up communications and policy work;
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Continually develop and disseminate our evidence base and insights on the social, environmental and economic value community rail delivers, and opportunities to create greater benefits for communities from rail and transport;
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Oversee high-quality, coherent and inspiring communications with our members and partners, promoting our work, and sharing news, opportunities, and good practice across the movement;
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Manage production of high-quality resources, case studies and reports that our members can use to enhance their impact and which showcase community rail’s impact;
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Lead and develop our media relations and awareness-raising PR, championing community rail and its messages on sustainable, inclusive travel and communities at national and regional level, while supporting members on local PR;
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Develop our online presence and reach, making full use of our website, social media, our Scenic Rail Britain campaign, and partners’ channels to celebrate and position community rail and grow its reach and impact;
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Oversee a calendar of creative and impactful campaigns that involve and empower our members, creating PR and engagement opportunities, including Community Rail Week;
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Play a key role in collective leadership, strategic focus and organisational development as a member of our senior leadership team, including through internal communications and cross-team working, annual planning, funder liaison and reporting, upholding our strategies and policies, and pursuing opportunities for continuous improvement.
Skills and competencies
- Strong leadership and management skills, including experience managing, developing and drawing on a multi-faceted team delivering complex campaigns or projects, and budget management;
- Excellent communication and external leadership skills; articulate, assertive, and with the ability to work diplomatically and persuasively with stakeholders at all levels;
- An understanding of public affairs, ideally in relation to community development, sustainability and/or transport, and a demonstrable ability to identify influencing opportunities, deliver thought-leadership, and engage with policy-makers, including sharing community insights;
- Politically astute, with awareness of and commitment to social inclusion, social justice and sustainability, and a good grasp of the importance of public transport sustainable travel, and community-led action, to these agendas;
- Understanding of political processes and experience of engaging with policy and decision-making, ideally at national, devolved and local levels;
- Sound knowledge of communication and marketing methods and channels, and ability to oversee messaging and targeting of public and professional audiences, and to align content across multiple channels;
- A demonstrable ability to think analytically and draw on statistical and qualitative research to construct robust, evidence-based arguments;
- Experience of working with the media and achieving coverage at national, regional and local level;
- Experience working collaboratively with partners and ideally funders to deliver communications and policy activity and forming professional networks;
- Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines while dealing with competing priorities, and to support team members to do so;
- IT literate with a good working knowledge of Office, the internet and social media;
- Appropriate qualifications and professional development demonstrating knowledge and skills in line with the above, and a commitment to ongoing learning and development.
Other information
As you will be home-based, we are flexible about your location. However, you will be expected to travel to in-person full team meetings quarterly (usually in West Yorkshire), and you will need to bring your team together (currently all West Yorkshire based) with similar regularity in between. Attendance at in-person events and meetings is also important. We therefore welcome applications from those with decent public transport links, not too far from a railway station, to enable journeys to be made sustainably.
This is a full-time position, 37 hours per week. We use a flexi-time system with core hours 10am-3pm, and are committed to being a flexible, supportive and understanding employer. This is a permanent position with a probationary period of six months.
Community Rail Network is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from disabled people and Black, Asian and other minoritised groups, who meet with the skills and competencies for this role. We will provide reasonable adjustments for interviews as required.
Championing the community rail movement | Connecting people and their railways | Creating inclusive, empowered, sustainable and healthy communities
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Location: Hybrid working - Part London office-based and part home working. The post holder will work a minimum of one day a week in the office.
Salary: £31,800 per annum
Hours: 35 hours per week
Closing date: Tuesday 6 January 2026 at 10.00am
Interview date: Tuesday 13 January 2026 on Teams. Please note that there may be a second stage in person on Wednesday 21 January.
This is a permanent role.
Who we are looking for
Breakthrough T1D is the UK’s leading type 1 diabetes charity, dedicated to funding research, advocating for change, and supporting the T1D community. A year into our exciting rebrand from JDRF to Breakthrough T1D, we’re looking for a Social Media and Content Officer to help us build on this momentum.
We’re looking for a creative and proactive person to join us as our new Social Media and Content Officer. We’re looking for someone with excellent content creation skills, a strong understanding of social media platforms and trends, and an ability to deploy tactics to ‘stop the scroll’ on our owned content.
As the Social Media and Content Officer, you will be responsible for our social media channels, creating compelling campaigns and content that engage our communities and build support for research into type 1 diabetes (T1D). You will help us build our engaged online T1D community and proactively seek out new and innovative approaches to digital communications, while protecting and enhancing the Breakthrough T1D brand.
Experience required
You’ll have previous experience of:
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Working across multiple social media platforms and monitoring engagement e.g. Meta, Linkedin, X
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Producing audience-specific, engaging and shareable daily content in different formats
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Training and supporting others to create and publish content
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Supporting and delivering unique and vibrant social media campaigns
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Growing online social communities and rates of social media engagement
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Interpreting social media analytics and providing insight on content performance
About Breakthrough T1D
Breakthrough T1D is the world’s leading charitable research funder into type 1 diabetes, improving lives until we find the cure. We are dedicated to our 400,000 strong type 1 community in the UK and work closely with our international affiliates across the world, including the US, Canada and Australia.
You will find a vibrant atmosphere and spirited team at Breakthrough T1D, always striving to make a difference to people living with type 1.
Employee benefits
As an employer we offer:
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Hybrid working arrangements
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Flexible working and will consider compressed hours
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Generous annual leave entitlement – 25 days per year plus bank holidays for full-time staff with leave increasing after three and five years’ service
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Health cash plan that allows you to claim for some treatments such as dental, optical and physiotherapy treatment
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Season ticket and cycle loan
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Pension scheme
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Family-friendly policies – maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave at enhanced rates
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Personalised training to suit your career aspirations and professional development
Breakthrough T1D is an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applications from all individuals regardless of race, gender, disability, religious belief, sexual orientation or age.
At Breakthrough T1D we do understand that AI (Artificial Intelligence platforms like ChatGPT) can be a useful tool for candidates to assist in applying for our roles. We ask that applicants do ensure their authentic voice is present, and we look forward to seeing examples of your specific experience.
Improving lives today and tomorrow by accelerating life-changing breakthroughs to treat, prevent, and, ultimately, cure T1D and its complications
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Crisis is the national charity for people experiencing homelessness. We have embarked on our 10-year strategy for ending homelessness. We know it is not inevitable. We know together we can end it.
Location: South Wales Skylight to work hybrid in line with Crisis’ Hybrid Working Policy, with an expectation to work a minimum of one day a week from the Skylight more as per business requirements
Contract: Permanent
About the role
The Senior Policy and Public Affairs Wales role at Crisis is an exciting opportunity to make a big difference in our mission to end homelessness. Through collaborating with colleagues, our frontline services, our members with lived experience of homelessness, key partners, civil servants and Members of the Senedd, you will help to develop and push for impactful policy change in Wales.
With the next Senedd term fast approaching and new homelessness legislation expected, you will be joining the team at a critical time in our calls for bold action to end homelessness in Wales. The postholder will be passionate about achieving fairness and equity, advocating for others, and achieving social justice through policy change.
About you
· Excellent knowledge of national and local government structures across Wales, with a proven track record for effectively influencing policy
· Ability to communicate complex policy issues clearly and concisely to a range of audiences
· Dedication to seeking effective policy change to help end homelessness, valuing the importance of lived experience in policy development
· Ability to work both independently and as a member of a team, collaborating with colleagues and building a network across key partners
· Experienced in working in a busy environment, prioritising workloads and working to deadline
· While not essential for the role, the ability to speak Welsh is desirable
Please see the full Job Pack linked below, for a full list of requirements for this role. We realise that long lists of criteria can be daunting, and you may not want to apply for a role unless you feel 100% qualified. However, if you feel you have relevant examples to answer the screening questions, we encourage you to apply.
We believe diversity is a strength, and our aim is to make sure that Crisis truly reflects the communities we serve. We are actively working towards our organisation being a place where everyone can thrive and make their best contribution to our mission of ending homelessness for good. We know that the more perspectives, voices, and experiences we can bring to this work, the better. We particularly welcome applications from people who have lived experience of homelessness, and people from all marginalised groups, communities, and backgrounds.
Working at Crisis
Our values, Bold, Impactful, Collaborative and Equitable, are at the heart of everything we do as we continue in our mission to end homelessness.
Our staff, members and volunteers are vital to getting the right government policies in place, providing breakthrough services, and building a supportive community. We’ll lead by example to nurture a positive and ambitious workplace guided by ending homelessness.
As a member of the team, you will have access to a wide range of employee benefits including:
· A competitive salary. Please note our salaries are fixed to counter inequity and we do not negotiate at offer stage.
- Interest free loans for travel season ticket, cycle to work, and deposit to secure a tenancy.
- Pension scheme with an employer contribution of 8.5%
- 28 days’ annual leave (pro rata) which increases with service to 31 days and the option to purchase up to 10 additional days leave.
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, shared parental, and adoption pay.
- Flexible working around the core hours 10am-4pm
- Wellbeing Leave to be used flexibly
- And more! (Full list of benefits available on website)
Alongside our excellent staff benefits, we will support your ongoing development to build your skills, experience, and career.
When you join us, you will have the opportunity to join our staff diversity networks, which aim to champion issues across the organisation, enable staff to be their authentic and best selves and contribute to making Crisis a truly diverse organisation.
How do I apply?
Please click on the 'Apply for Job' button below. Our shortlisting process is anonymised as part of our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We do not ask for CVs, instead we ask you complete the work history section and answer the screening questions for us to be able to assess you fairly and objectively. At least two members of staff score all applications.
Closing date: Sunday 18th January 2026 23:59
Interview process: Competency-based interview and a written task
Interview date and location: Friday 6th February 2026 (in-person) at Crisis Skylight, South Wales, 163 St Helens Road, Swansea, SA1 4DQ
AI in Job Applications
We understand some candidates use AI tools when applying. Whilst we welcome the use of technology to support clear communication and structure, we want to learn more about you, so please ensure that your application reflects your own skills, knowledge and experiences
Accessibility
We want our recruitment process to be as accessible as possible. If you need us to make an adjustment or provide additional support as you apply for a role, please email our Talent Acquisition team will contact you to discuss how we can help.
For more information about our work please visit
Registered Charity Numbers: E&W1082947, SC040094
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Contract: Permanent, full time
Hours: 35 hours per week
Salary: £49,000 - £52,000 per annum
Location: Anchored to the Cardiff office. Minimum expectation of being present at least one day a week in the office.
The Head of External Affairs is a key role within the Carers Trust Wales team responsible for developing and delivering a dynamic external affairs strategy to ensure the issues impacting on unpaid carers and the services they rely on are a priority for Welsh Government, the Senedd and other key statutory partners.
A high-profile role, our Head of External Affairs is a credible spokesperson for the organisation working alongside the media, third sector and other key stakeholders to raise awareness of, and generate support for, the issues impacting unpaid carers and the services they rely on.
Through this role you will be central to advancing our mission by increasing the profile and influence of the Carers Trust Network in Wales, campaigning to make carers' rights a reality through the delivery of Wales-based and UK wide campaigns, and the production of high-quality content for a range of audiences.
To find out more about the role and Carers Trust, download the documents attached.
Contract: Parhaol, amser llawn
Oriau: 35 awr yr wythnos
Cyflog: £49,000 - £52,000 y flwyddyn
Lleoliad: Wedi'i angori i swyddfa Caerdydd. Bydd disgwyl i chi fod yn bresennol yn y swyddfa o leiaf un diwrnod yr wythnos.
Mae'r Pennaeth Materion Allanol yn rôl allweddol yn nhîm Ymddiriedolaeth Gofalwyr Cymru sy'n gyfrifol am ddatblygu a chyflawni strategaeth materion allanol ddeinamig i sicrhau bod y materion sy'n effeithio ar ofalwyr di-dâl a'r gwasanaethau maen nhw'n dibynnu arnyn nhw yn flaenoriaeth i Lywodraeth Cymru, y Senedd a phartneriaid statudol allweddol eraill.
Mae ein Pennaeth Materion Allanol yn swydd uchel ei phroffil ac yn llefarydd effeithiol ar ran y sefydliad. Mae'n gweithio ochr yn ochr â'r cyfryngau, y trydydd sector a rhanddeiliaid allweddol eraill i godi ymwybyddiaeth o'r materion sy'n effeithio ar ofalwyr di-dâl a'r gwasanaethau maen nhw'n dibynnu arnyn nhw, ac i ennyn cefnogaeth ar eu cyfer.
Drwy'r rôl hon, byddwch yn ganolog i ddatblygu ein cenhadaeth drwy godi proffil a dylanwad y Rhwydwaith Ymddiriedolaeth Gofalwyr yng Nghymru, ymgyrchu i wireddu hawliau gofalwyr drwy ddarparu ymgyrchoedd yng Nghymru ac ar draws y DU, a llunio cynnwys o ansawdd uchel ar gyfer amrywiaeth o gynulleidfaoedd.
I gael rhagor o wybodaeth am y rôl ac am Ymddiriedolaeth y Gofalwyr, llwythwch y dogfennau sydd wedi'u hatodi i lawr.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Location: Hybrid working Part London office-based and part home based with a minimum of one day a week in the office, or home based
Salary: £31,800 per annum for London based and £29,300 per annum for home based
Hours: 35 hours per week
Closing date: Tuesday 6 January 2026 at 10.00am
Interview date: Thursday 15 January 2026
This is a permanent role.
Who we are looking for
Breakthrough T1D is the UK’s leading type 1 diabetes charity, dedicated to funding research, advocating for change, and supporting the T1D community. A year into our exciting rebrand from JDRF to Breakthrough T1D, we’re looking for a dynamic Community Events Officer to help us build on this momentum.
You will be an enthusiastic person with an eye for detail and the ability to plan, manage and deliver our community events programme. This role will work at the heart of a passionate team, who deliver support and information to people living with type 1 diabetes throughout their type 1 journey. Events are a key opportunity to connect those living with the condition and to share what Breakthrough T1Doffers.
With experience in delivering events, you may have worked for charities before in similar roles. Your role will be to oversee the planning and delivery of our community events, including on-the-day logistics in person and virtually. You will also develop post-event follow-up with participants and strategically evaluate our community events programme, working with the Community Partnerships and Events Lead. There will be opportunities to represent Breakthrough T1D , network and exhibit at external events and develop creative plans and strategy for future events, to support Breakthrough T1D’s ’s aims and mission.
Experience required
You’ll have previous experience of:
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Planning, delivering and evaluating successful community events
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Facilitating virtual events via Zoom or similar online platforms
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Representing an organisation through networking or exhibiting at conferences, community events and other similar functions
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A proven track record working with and managing budgets
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Working within a community and building relationships with volunteers, new and existing supporters and stakeholders
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Demonstrating excellent communication and interpersonal skills
About Breakthrough T1D
Breakthrough T1D is the world’s leading charitable research funder into type 1 diabetes, improving lives until we find the cure. We are dedicated to our 400,000 strong type 1 community in the UK and work closely with our international affiliates across the world, including the US, Canada and Australia.
You will find a vibrant atmosphere and spirited team at Breakthrough T1D, always striving to make a difference to people living with type 1.
Employee benefits
As an employer we offer:
-
Hybrid working arrangements
-
Flexible working and will consider compressed hours
-
Generous annual leave entitlement – 25 days per year plus bank holidays for full-time staff with leave increasing after three and five years’ service
-
Health cash plan that allows you to claim for some treatments such as dental, optical and physiotherapy treatment
-
Season ticket and cycle loan
-
Pension scheme
-
Family-friendly policies – maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave at enhanced rates
-
Personalised training to suit your career aspirations and professional development
Breakthrough T1D is an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applications from all individuals regardless of race, gender, disability, religious belief, sexual orientation or age.
At Breakthrough T1D we do understand that AI (Artificial Intelligence platforms like ChatGPT) can be a useful tool for candidates to assist in applying for our roles. We ask that applicants do ensure their authentic voice is present, and we look forward to seeing examples of your specific experience.
Improving lives today and tomorrow by accelerating life-changing breakthroughs to treat, prevent, and, ultimately, cure T1D and its complications
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We are a charity representing and advocating for people living with dyslexia. Our mission is simple but powerful: to influence government and institutions so that society becomes truly dyslexia-friendly – enabling individuals of all ages to reach their full potential.
This is a key role leading our parliamentary engagement and policy development, ensuring that dyslexic children, young people, families, and adults have a strong voice in Westminster, Whitehall, and across the UK. Working closely with senior leaders, campaigns and media colleagues, and external partners, you’ll help shape policy and drive change in education, health, and employment.
Your work will make sure policymakers understand the barriers dyslexic people face - and the evidence-based solutions we champion. You’ll ensure our positions are grounded in lived experience, research, and best practice, and that our engagement is proactive, impactful, and aligned with our mission.
What You’ll Do
- Develop and deliver a parliamentary engagement strategy to advance our policy priorities.
- Build and maintain relationships with MPs, Peers, Ministers, advisers, and civil servants.
- Provide timely briefings and strategic advice to senior leaders.
- Monitor political developments and identify opportunities for early influence.
- Lead policy research and produce clear, evidence-informed recommendations.
- Represent the charity at events, roundtables, and forums.
- Work collaboratively across teams to ensure policy insights inform campaigns and communications.
What We’re Looking For
- Proven, up-to-date experience in public affairs, parliamentary engagement, or a related policy-influencing role, with a strong track record of delivering impact.
- Strong understanding of UK parliamentary and governmental processes.
- Excellent communication skills—able to translate complex issues into clear, compelling messages.
- Political awareness, strategic thinking, and confident networking ability.
- Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and a passion for improving outcomes for dyslexic people.
Please review the full job description for complete details about the role, responsibilities, and person specification before applying.
Why Join Us?
This is your chance to make a real difference – shaping policy, influencing decision-makers, and helping create a society where dyslexic people can thrive. You’ll work in a collaborative, supportive environment with colleagues who share your passion for positive change.
Closing date: 14 January 2026 (5pm). We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of applications is received, so we encourage you to apply early.
Use of AI in Applications
We value the unique experience and perspective each candidate brings. While we understand that AI tools can be helpful in drafting applications, they can sometimes result in responses that feel generic or impersonal. This makes it harder for us to get a true sense of you.
To help your application stand out, we encourage you to write your responses in your own words. If you do use AI tools to support your writing, please treat the generated content as a starting point rather than a final answer. Make sure your application genuinely reflects your experience and voice.
To change society by removing barriers so that everyone with dyslexia can reach their full potential in education, in employment and in life.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Overview
We have an exciting opportunity to drive ARMA’s engagement with political and health sector stakeholders and lead our communications. Working closely with the CEO, you'll help raise the profile of the Alliance, influence policy outcomes, and support members to collaborate to effect change.
Over 20 million people live with musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions in the UK.
ARMA brings together patient charities, professional bodies, research organisations and industry partners to work together for better MSK treatment, care and support.
You can help us to make MSK health a higher national priority and thereby improve the lives of millions of people. You can also make a wide ranging contribution to us developing as a charity and Alliance. This role will offer lots of opportunity for personal and professional development.
Key responsibilities
· Develop and implement ARMA's influencing and political engagement plans.
· Build relationships with key stakeholders, including politicians, government departments, and advisers.
· Monitor research, policy and legislative developments affecting MSK health.
· Draft briefings, consultation responses, letters, and parliamentary correspondence.
· Represent ARMA at meetings, roundtables, and political events.
· Chair and manage meetings and webinars comprising the policy and communications leads of member organisations.
· Lead and co-ordinate the annual Bone and Joint Week campaign activity and the combined efforts of member organisations.
· Develop and manage campaigns and external communications that promote the work of ARMA and our members, including social media channels, our monthly newsletter and website.
· Assist the CEO in policy and public affairs work and support the wider delivery of our strategy and operational plan, as required.
About you
We're looking for someone who brings:
· Experience working in a public affairs, parliamentary, or policy role either in-house, in an agency, or in a political setting.
· Excellent political awareness and understanding of UK policymaking.
· First rate written and verbal communication skills.
· A proactive and collaborative approach, with the ability to build relationships at all levels.
· An interest in health policy.
· Alignment with our vision and values.
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a respected and important charity at the heart of a growing Alliance of organisations. You'll have autonomy, visibility, and the chance to make a meaningful impact whilst working with high profile members and stakeholders.
For more details download the job pack.
Please submit your CV. Your covering letter must be no more than 400 words long.
Please apply early, we may close the vacancy once we receive a sufficient number of strong applications.
Better MSK health for everyone.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Contract type: Full time, Permanent
Salary: £31,242 per annum (+£5000, London area weighting if applicable)
Hours: 40 hours per week
Location: Hybrid, with regular travel to our Devonshire Square London office.
About the Role
Nacro is looking for a Policy & Public Affairs Officer – Young People to support the delivery of our influencing strategy. This role will focus on developing Nacro’s policy positions on issues affecting young people and delivering proactive and reactive public affairs activity to influence decision-makers.
Working closely with the Head of Policy & Public Affairs and colleagues across the organisation, you will help ensure that the voices and experiences of young people inform policy development and public debate.
Key Responsibilities
- Monitor and analyse the political and policy environment relating to young people’s issues to identify opportunities for influence.
- Develop evidence-based policy positions, working with service users, frontline staff and research colleagues.
- Draft policy briefings, reports and responses to government consultations.
- Develop and deliver public affairs plans aligned to Nacro’s influencing objectives.
- Identify, build and maintain effective relationships with parliamentarians, government officials and regional decision-makers.
- Represent Nacro at external events, including APPGs, parliamentary events and meetings with MPs.
- Produce parliamentary briefings and contribute to legislative scrutiny as required.
- Organise and support parliamentary and stakeholder events that advance influencing objectives.
- Build strong working relationships with sector partners and external organisations.
- Act as the internal point of contact for expertise on young people’s policy.
- Provide content for media comment, blogs and wider external communications.
- Prepare briefings for the Head of Policy & Public Affairs, Director of Engagement & Impact and the CEO.
- Support wider campaigning and influencing work across the organisation as required.
Skills and Experience
- Significant knowledge of policy issues affecting young people.
- Strong understanding of Westminster, Whitehall and political processes.
- Experience of designing and delivering public affairs activity.
- Proven experience of influencing decision-makers and working with parliamentarians.
- Experience of building and maintaining productive external relationships.
- Strong experience of writing policy papers, briefings and campaign materials.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- High level of political awareness and sound judgement.
Our Expectations
You will take ownership of your learning and development, always promote Nacro positively, and work collaboratively as part of an integrated team. You will adhere to safeguarding, data protection, health and safety, equality and diversity policies, and demonstrate professional behaviours aligned with Nacro’s values.
Why Join Nacro?
We believe that everyone deserves a good education, a safe and secure place to live, the right to be heard, and the chance to start again, with support from someone on their side.
That’s why our housing, education, justice, and health and wellbeing services work alongside people to give them the support and skills they need to succeed. And it’s why we fight for their voices to be heard and campaign together to create lasting change.
We see your future, whatever the past.
How to Apply
If you are passionate about influencing policy and improving outcomes for young people, we welcome your application. Please submit your application
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Director of Communications – EMMS International (Remote, Scotland-based)
EMMS International is creating a new Director of Communications role following an organisational review, separating fundraising and communications into two Director posts. Reporting to and working closely with the CEO, the Director of Communications will lead all internal and external communications, raise the charity’s profile and influence, and provide strong strategic support to income-generating functions, especially fundraising. You will develop and deliver a multi-layered communications and external affairs strategy, lead a small Communications Team (including a new Head of Communications), and play a key role on the Executive Leadership Team.
Key responsibilities include:
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Designing and implementing an organisational communications and external affairs strategy
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Leading EMMS’ rebrand in partnership with an external agency
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Growing and engaging core and new audiences across multiple channels
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Supporting fundraising colleagues with compelling campaigns
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Managing a small team, setting objectives/KPIs and overseeing performance and development
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Budget planning and financial oversight for the Communications function
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Representing EMMS at senior level, including Board meetings and sector bodies such as SIDA
What they’re looking for:
An experienced communications leader with a strong track record in strategic comms, audience growth, media engagement and campaign delivery. You’ll bring creative thinking, excellent written and verbal skills, experience managing and developing teams, and confidence operating at both strategic and hands-on levels. Familiarity with the Scottish charity, political and social landscape is essential, as is the ability to communicate effectively with both Christian and secular audiences in line with EMMS’ faith-based origins and healthcare mission. Degree-level education or equivalent professional experience is required.
Terms and benefits:
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Salary: £63,313 – £70,347 (depending on experience), with annual inflationary rise
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Remote role with monthly meetings in central Edinburgh (more frequent in first three months)
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25–30 days annual leave depending on length of service + 10 public holidays
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8% employer pension contribution (with salary sacrifice)
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Salary sacrifice scheme for electric vehicle lease
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Flexible working, travel expenses to office, access to Edinburgh office, some international travel
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Life assurance (three times annual salary) and Aviva Digi-Care app
Application:
Apply by CV and covering letter (each up to 2 pages) by Monday 12 January 2026. Interviews will be held in Edinburgh, with two stages. You must live in Scotland and have the right to work in the UK.
Head of Communications & PR
We are seeking a Head of Communications & PR to elevate the national voice of a values-driven arts education charity as they prepare to open their new headquarters at the iconic Wigan Pier. Shape the story of their next chapter and help influence the future of cultural education in England and beyond.
Position: Head of Communications & PR
Salary: £39,837 to £43,570 (pro rata based on 35 hour week FTE)
Location: Wigan (hybrid: home working, Wigan Pier office from Summer 2026, plus travel as needed)
Hours: 25-30 (negotiable)
Contract: Permanent
Closing Date: 9.00 am on Monday 19th January 2026
Please note - This role is offered at 25-30 hours per week (FTE 35 hours), with flexibility and negotiation on your working pattern to help you to balance work and life.
About the Role
The Head of Communications & PR plays a pivotal role in strengthening the organisation’s national presence and ensuring that the story of arts education and the people who make it possible, is heard, understood and valued.
You will shape a clear communications and PR strategy, lead and support a small communications team, champion ethical and inclusive storytelling, and ensure all messaging reflects the organisation’s values of equity, inclusion, quality and care.
Reporting to the Director of Relationships and Marketing, you will:
- Lead proactive, strategic communications that bring the charity’s mission to life
- Manage media relationships and secure thoughtful, impactful press coverage
- Oversee all digital communications, including website and social channels
- Support colleagues to communicate their work confidently and clearly
- Shape organisational messaging around programme launches, events and key moments
- Elevate the visibility of teaching artists, cultural organisations and partners
- Uphold high-quality, accessible and ethical storytelling in all content
This is a unique opportunity to influence national conversations, shift perceptions about arts-based learning, and shine a spotlight on the people, places and practices shaping cultural education today.
About You
We’re looking for a strategic communicator, a relationship-builder and a natural storyteller, someone who loves ideas, thrives on collaboration and believes deeply in the power of the arts to help children flourish.
You will be:
- A confident communicator with excellent writing skills and an eye for accuracy
- An experienced media handler who builds strong, respectful journalist relationships
- Curious, creative and able to turn complex ideas into compelling stories
- Organised, calm under pressure and skilled at managing multiple priorities
- Inclusive and ethical in your approach to storytelling and representation
- A supportive team leader who motivates others with clarity, care and ambition
This is an exciting moment to join the team. You’ll help establish the organisation’s voice as it moves into its new home at Wigan Pier and expands its local, national and international reach.
About the Organisation
The charity’s vision is for a future where being creative and experiencing brilliant culture is a regular part of every child’s learning and life. They work strategically across Northern England, nationally and internationally to tackle unequal access to creativity and the arts for children and young people.
They value curiosity, courage, collaboration, care, conscientiousness and credibility, and are committed to anti-racist practice, ensuring diversity is at the heart of everything they do.
Other roles you may have experience of could include: Head of Communications, PR Manager, Communications Lead, Head of External Affairs, Media & Communications Manager, Senior Communications Officer, Strategic Communications Lead, Head of Marketing and Communications, Public Relations Lead, or similar.
PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation.
White Ribbon is the leading organisation in the UK working to engage men and boys in ending violence against women and girls. Our mission is to prevent men’s violence against women through addressing its root causes, gender inequality and harmful gender norms and stereotypes. We do this by working with individual men and boys, organisations, and the community, helping them to understand the scale of the problem, and how they can be part of the solution.
This is an exciting time to join White Ribbon as our work and profile has grown significantly over recent years as the importance of engaging men in ending violence has become more apparent. We have an increasing public presence, through campaigning activities, policy influence, in the media and online.
Location: This post can be fully remote or hybrid working at our offices in Hebden Bridge, but you must be willing and able to travel to meet with colleagues and attend events and meetings throughout England and Wales.
You will be working closely with the CEO and Senior Leadership Team to develop and implement an Engagement Strategy, developing our brand, updating our website and growing our social media channels. You will be helping to deliver our flagship campaign White Ribbon Day and the following 16 days of activism.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About the Role
Reporting to the Head of Communications, you’ll join a small, creative, and supportive team working to make a real impact for Scotland’s seas. This is a maternity cover position, offering an exciting opportunity to step into a dynamic role where you can quickly make a difference.
You’ll help craft engaging digital content and drive public campaigns that raise awareness of seafood sustainability and marine protection — inspiring both people and policymakers to take action.
A key part of your work will be supporting collaborative external campaigns and finding imaginative ways to grow Open Seas’ reach and influence. From storytelling through film and design to building our online presence, your creativity will help showcase Scotland’s incredible marine life — and the urgent need to protect it.
You’ll contribute across a range of activities, from managing social media and improving SEO, to developing new website content and visual communications.
We’re looking for someone who’s agile, proactive, and comfortable working in a fast-moving environment. You’ll be a positive self-starter and a collaborative team player who enjoys bringing fresh ideas to life and adapting as priorities evolve.
This maternity cover role is a fantastic opportunity to use your digital and creative skills for good — contributing to progressive, solutions-focused campaigns that help shape the future of Scotland’s seas.
About Open Seas
Open Seas is a small environmental charity working in Scotland and beyond to promote environmental recovery in our seas and champion sustainable seafood. Established in 2016, we conduct environmental and policy research to inform consumers, markets and decision-makers as well as generate campaigns to drive positive change for the environmental health of Scotland’s seas.
We investigate threats to our seas, conduct research, and campaign for sustainable fisheries.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Would you like to join an organisation that is striving for systemic change? We believe it is not enough to reform structures and systems which are foundationally discriminatory. We are calling for a complete overhaul, and for people with lived experience to lead that change.
Migration is one of the most hotly debated political topics with rapid policy changes shaping the lives of millions. We’re looking for a proactive and inspiring leader to join us as Interim Head of Policy and Communications.
In this vital role, you will champion our mission to create a just society for all migrants, ensuring those with lived experience are at the centre of our work and heard by policymakers and supporters alike. You will influence national policies, engage diverse stakeholders, from policymakers to grassroots groups, and build impactful communication campaigns.
Working closely with our CEO and as part of the Senior Leadership Team, you will help shape the strategic direction of our policy and communication efforts during this critical time.
The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in contributing to a vision for intersectional campaigns that call for systemic change, and for those with lived experience to lead the changes we need.
If you’re passionate about social justice, experienced in policy and advocacy, and a skilled communicator, we want to hear from you!
As a lived experience and values-led organisation, and diverse team, we are looking for candidates with a:
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Commitment to upholding the rights of ALL migrants
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Real vision as to how this can be done in the current political, social and economic climate
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A commitment to MRN's vision and values
The salary will be £43,817 per annum, pro-rata. In addition, MRN contributes up to 6% of salary to pensions. We are keen to have someone start in the role immediately.
Closing date for applications: 9am, 14 January 2026
Date for candidate interviews: 26 January 2026
We are a charity and campaigning organisation that stands in solidarity with all migrants in their fights for rights and justice.

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Nacro is seeking an experienced and dynamic Head of Policy & Public Affairs to lead our strategic policy development and influencing work with Government, officials, and other key decision-makers. This pivotal role will shape and deliver a high-impact policy and public affairs strategy that improves the lives of the people we support—those affected by the criminal justice system, housing insecurity, and barriers to education.
You will be Nacro’s senior voice in government spaces, the media, and across the public affairs landscape. You will ensure our policy positions are evidence-based, rooted in lived experience, and influential at the highest levels.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Policy & Public Affairs
- Lead Nacro’s strategic policy and public affairs activity with Government, parliamentarians, officials, and other stakeholders.
- Develop and implement a compelling public affairs strategy that drives meaningful change.
- Build and maintain strong, productive relationships with senior policymakers.
- Represent Nacro externally, including with senior stakeholders and in the media.
- Oversee the development of evidence-based policy positions and research projects that support Nacro’s strategic objectives.
- Ensure service user experience informs all policy and influencing work.
- Produce and oversee high-quality policy outputs including consultation responses, briefings, reports, blogs, and media commentary.
- Safeguard Nacro’s reputation as a trusted and authoritative source of insight and expertise.
- Provide strategic political intelligence and advice to the Director of Engagement & Impact and the Chief Executive.
People Leadership
- Lead, motivate, and support a high-performing team, setting clear direction and expectations.
- Model Nacro’s values and behaviours, enabling a positive, inclusive, and accountable culture.
- Manage communication channels effectively, ensuring key organisational messages are understood and cascaded.
- Set objectives, monitor performance, and hold regular one-to-one meetings.
- Support professional development and wellbeing across the team while driving innovation and high standards.
- Take responsibility for all aspects of people management, including recruitment, conduct, performance, and attendance.
- Recognise, reward, and encourage excellent performance.
Leadership Across the Organisation
- Play an active role in the Senior Leadership Team, helping to drive organisational strategy.
- Operate both strategically and operationally, identifying opportunities and risks for Nacro.
Professional Expertise
- Significant senior-level experience in policy and public affairs.
- Strong track record of leading policy campaigns that delivered real impact.
- Excellent political awareness, judgement, and communication skills—both written and verbal.
- Knowledge of criminal justice, education, young people’s policy, or housing policy (desirable).
Performance & Compliance
- Set and deliver directorate performance targets, ensuring effective management of budgets and resources.
- Oversee health & safety responsibilities in your area.
- Contribute to business development and bid work in partnership with relevant teams.
- Ensure accurate and timely record-keeping and reporting.
- Promote and uphold Nacro’s values, safeguarding, data protection, and equality and diversity policies.
- Represent Nacro positively, building strong internal and external relationships.
Why Join Nacro?
We believe that everyone deserves a good education, a safe and secure place to live, the right to be heard, and the chance to start again, with support from someone on their side.
That’s why our housing, education, justice, and health and wellbeing services work alongside people to give them the support and skills they need to succeed. And it’s why we fight for their voices to be heard and campaign together to create lasting change.
We see your future, whatever the past.
If you are a strategic thinker, an influential communicator, and passionate about social justice—we want to hear from you.
Apply now to lead change where it matters most
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Nacro is looking for a committed and politically astute Policy & Public Affairs Officer – Criminal Justice to play a key role in delivering our influencing strategy. You will help shape Nacro’s policy positions on criminal justice issues and deliver proactive and reactive public affairs activity that drives meaningful change for the people we support.
This is an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about social justice, who understands the political landscape and is confident producing high-quality policy materials, engaging with parliamentarians, and representing Nacro externally.
Key Responsibilities
Policy Development
- Monitor and analyse political and policy developments in criminal justice to identify trends, opportunities, and risks.
- Work with service users, staff, and research colleagues to develop evidence-based policy positions.
- Produce high-quality policy briefings, reports, and consultation responses.
- Serve as Nacro’s internal expert on criminal justice policy.
Public Affairs & Influencing
- Develop and deliver a public affairs plan that advances Nacro’s influencing objectives.
- Build and maintain productive relationships with parliamentarians, policymakers, and regional decision-makers.
- Attend and represent Nacro at APPGs, parliamentary meetings, and external events.
- Produce parliamentary briefings and contribute to legislative engagement.
- Organise and coordinate parliamentary and stakeholder events that support influencing goals.
- Work collaboratively with partners across the sector to strengthen joint advocacy.
Communications & Support
- Provide content for media statements, blogs, and external communications.
- Prepare briefings for senior leaders including the Head of Policy & Public Affairs, Director of Engagement & Impact, and CEO.
- Support wider Nacro campaigns and influencing work as required.
Professional & Technical Expertise
- Strong knowledge of criminal justice policy.
- In-depth understanding of Westminster, Whitehall, and political processes.
- Experience designing and delivering effective public affairs activity.
- Demonstrated ability to influence decision-makers.
- Experience working with parliamentarians and developing strong relationships.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills with experience producing policy and campaign materials.
- Strong political awareness and the ability to anticipate developments.
Organisational Performance & Compliance
- Commit to personal learning and development through supervision and appraisal.
- Positively promote Nacro and contribute to an integrated, collaborative team culture focused on supporting service users and students.
- Adhere to safeguarding, data protection, and statutory responsibilities.
- Uphold and promote Nacro’s Equality and Diversity Policy.
- Report any health and safety concerns within your area.
- Demonstrate professional behaviour aligned with Nacro’s values.
Why Join Nacro?
We believe that everyone deserves a good education, a safe and secure place to live, the right to be heard, and the chance to start again, with support from someone on their side.
That’s why our housing, education, justice, and health and wellbeing services work alongside people to give them the support and skills they need to succeed. And it’s why we fight for their voices to be heard and campaign together to create lasting change.
We see your future, whatever the past.
If you’re passionate about driving change, skilled at navigating political environments, and eager to develop your policy and influencing expertise - we’d love to hear from you.
Apply now and help shape a fairer future.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.