Policy and influencing officer jobs in St albans, hertfordshire

Location: Home based within commuting distance of either Edinburgh, Cardiff or Belfast 

Salary: £32,750 per annum
Hours: 35 hours per week 

Closing date: Monday 19 May 2026 at midnight 

Interview date: week commencing 25 May 2026 over video with possible second stage in person week commencing 1 June 2026 

This is a full time fixed-term position for one year (with possible extension subject to funding). 

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 Senior Policy and Public Affairs Officer – Devolved Nations to help us build on this momentum. 

The role of the Senior Policy and Public Affairs Officer - Devolved Nations is vital to achieving our UK-wide advocacy mission: to reduce health inequalities in type 1 diabetes, to widen access to type 1 diabetes treatments and technologies and to ensure that people with type 1 get access to emerging new treatments and future cures in the devolved nations.  

You will lead on projects with key stakeholders and high-level Parliamentarians, such as our access to treatments and early detection work, as well as people with type 1 diabetes, policy makers and researchers. You will help to deliver Breakthrough T1D’s influencing plans, improving access to and choice of type 1 diabetes treatments and technology in the devolved nations.  

Experience required 

• Experience of working successfully with politicians, their offices, Government departments, and other public affairs audiences to influence policy and to influence public/stakeholder discourse  

• Experience of leading public affairs delivery in one of more of the devolved nations  

• Experience in analysing Government policy in-depth and creating policy briefings   

• Experience of drafting briefings, reports and policy submissions   

• Experience of communicating across a range of parliamentary and professional stakeholders at all levels  

• Demonstrable knowledge, interest and experience of working in a public affairs and policy-based environment  

• Experience of organising stakeholder events  

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. 

Be part of something extraordinary at Epilepsy Society. We are seeking a values driven Policy & Public Affairs Manager to join a charity that provides world leading support for people with epilepsy through Care, Research and Advocacy.

About the role

Epilepsy Society is a dynamic charity with ambitious plans to revolutionise the lives of people through advocacy, research and care.

We are looking for someone to join our award-winning campaigns team and help us to progress change through political engagement at both national and local level. We have an impressive track record of working with government, locally elected politicians, professional organisations, patient stakeholder groups and other charities in the sector on a range of issues which affect people with epilepsy.

Our recent work includes our successful Zach’s Law campaign. This role is an exciting opportunity to help bring about further change that will make a real difference to the lives of people with epilepsy. 

The postholder will develop an effective programme of policy and public affairs work across the UK to have maximum impact for people with epilepsy and to raise the public profile of epilepsy. 

We seek someone with a degree or relevant experience in political or public affairs, extensive experience of influencing, organising campaigns and major events and negotiating at a senior level. You will be required to have a detailed level of understanding of government politics and the charity sector and an empathy to the cause.

Please download the recruitment pack attached to view the full job description and essential criteria. 

The post holders should demonstrate our people values of CAIRO (Caring, Accountable, Improving, Respectful and Open.

Some information about us

The Epilepsy Society’s Vision is a full life for everyone affected by epilepsy. We want everyone affected by epilepsy to have the best opportunity for a full life - as free from seizures as possible. We set out to make a difference to every person affected by epilepsy whatever their background, however seriously it impacts on their life, and whether they have the condition themselves or are close to someone with epilepsy.

What we can offer

•    27 days annual leave + bank holidays, with the ability to buy and sell annual leave 
•    A generous Employee Referral Scheme (refer a friend and earn up to £150) 
•    Length of service awards
•    Access to shopping discounts and cashback with thousands of retailers through Purple Rewards
•    Staff recognition scheme 
•    Excellent training and development opportunities
•    Group Pension
•    Life Assurance (2x your annual salary)
•    Confidential, supportive Employee Assistance Programme, accessible 24/7
•    Salary Finance, offering you products linked to your salary and tailored to your individual circumstances. Providing services such as loans, advances, savings and financial education

If you have the right skills and experience and are inspired to apply, please do so by uploading your CV and covering letter explaining how you meet the specifications of this role. 

A DBS (Disclosure & Barring) check will be required before appointment is confirmed. 

We reserve the right to close the post early once we have received a sufficient number of applicants: please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

Hello!
We're OUTpatients, the UK's LGBTIQ+ cancer charity. We're proudly patient-led and are here to shake up the system, advocate for equity, and stand up for every LGBTIQ+ individual navigating the cancer journey. We believe that no-one should feel like they're on the outside looking in when it comes to their own health. That's why we're working towards a world where everyone can bring their whole selves to cancer care. Our goal is fair and accessible cancer care for all, inclusive of our community. It's not just our dream, it's the change we create.

About the role
OUTpatients is seeking an experienced Education and Policy Manager who can help us reach people all over the UK with our sector leading education and policy advisory. We encourage applicants who have prior experience working in small, developing teams and are able to balance taking initiative with close collaboration with other staff members.

You will lead on managing our education arm of the charity, continuing to deliver existing webinars and sessions on LGBTIQ+ inclusive cancer care, and explore development into new products, content, and audiences. You will work closely with stakeholders in the NHS, third sector, and industry.

Experience developing and delivering education sessions or programmes would be beneficial. You should also have a strong understanding of data-led educational content, and how intersectionality can be applied as a lens throughout our work.

We strongly encourage people with lived experience and those from minoritised backgrounds to apply for this role. Our application process is anonymous, this means we will not know who you are until we decide to invite people to interview.

Responsibilities
Education
• Delivering education sessions on LGBTIQ+ inclusive cancer care to healthcare professionals, charities, and other organisations.
• Attending and presenting at conferences and special meetings.
• Securing new education clients and project work through networking and outreach.
• Collecting and analysing evaluation data to report on and inform education outputs.
• Managing junior and session staff to support education delivery and reach.
• Managing CRM and invoicing of education clients.
• Developing strategic plan for expansion of materials and/or clients and audiences, supported by the CEO.

Policy
• Keeping up to date with sector policy direction and announcements.

• Making recommendations to the CEO about areas of policy that the charity should try to influence.

• Working with the staff team and interns to draft policy related actions and asks for submission to the Department of Health and Social Care and other relevant bodies.

• Attend and present at policy oriented meetings and events to promote data-led insights and recommendations for improved LGBTIQ+ cancer care.

Person specification
Essential
A successful candidate will be able to to demonstrate a commitment to the charity's mission and possess the following qualities:
• Highly developed skills in public speaking, presenting, or delivering education sessions.
• Experience using Microsoft Teams or comparable video call platforms to organise and deliver presentations or webinars.
• Proficiency using Microsoft PowerPoint to create dynamic presentations.
• Experience working independently to deliver projects or workstreams.
• Demonstrable skills in using research and public data to create educational content.

Desirable
In addition to the above skills, we welcome applicants with the following experience, interests, and expertise:
• Experience designing educational programmes and products.
• Experience using CRM software or managing databases.
• Understanding of the cancer sector in the UK.
• Understanding of LGBTIQ+ health inequalities, and health inequalities more widely.
• Experience of working in the charity sector.
• Knowledge and experience in how to be GDPR compliant.

Do you want to change the world for vulnerable children?

The Consortium of Voluntary Adoption Agencies UK (CVAA) aims to improve adoption policy and practice across the UK for the benefit of children, challenging the adoption system to deliver for children and work in their best interests. Alongside advocating for system change, CVAA works to support our member voluntary adoption agencies (VAAs) across the four nations of the UK, stimulating innovation and ensuring they stay at the leading edge of practice. The active engagement of members and the building of collaborative alliances with others who seek positive change for children are essential to the effectiveness of our work.

The Head of Policy is a vital member of the small CVAA team, working closely with the CEO and Board of Trustees to champion the voluntary adoption sector and put children at the heart of everything we do. Due to maternity leave we have an exceptional and unique opportunity for someone who shares our passion to change the world for children, to gain valuable experience working at national level with senior stakeholders to contribute to system change, advocating for the power of adoption to change lives.

You will need strong people skills, experience of developing policy in consultation with stakeholders and using data to transform services and strengthen lobbying work. Most of all you need a cast iron commitment to change the world for vulnerable children.

CVAA works to challenge discrimination and disadvantage and welcomes applications from all communities, particularly those who are underrepresented in our sector, which includes but is not limited to people from Global Majority backgrounds, adoptees, men and those who identify as LGBTQ.

Key information

• Maternity Cover 1 year from July 2026
• Location - remote contract with occasional travel
• £40 – 45K depending on experience
• An enhanced DBS check is required for this role.

Applications

Please send a CV and letter of application, outlining your motivation for applying and the skills you offer, to Satwinder Sandhu (CEO) by 5pm on Friday 8th May 2026.

Both Satwinder (CEO) and Alice (Director of Strategy and Policy) are happy to have an informal chat about the role. Please email to arrange a convenient time to speak.

Initial online interviews via Microsoft Teams will be on Monday 18th and Tuesday 19th May, with final in-person interviews scheduled for Thursday 28th May 2026 in London. Please let us know whether you cannot make any of these dates in your application.

Keeping Young People Safe:

At Young Enterprise, safeguarding is at the core of everything we do. We are committed to promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. All successful applicants will receive ongoing safeguarding training throughout their employment and be expected to uphold excellent safeguarding practice at all times.

Are you passionate about helping young people build brighter futures?

Are you curious about policy and public affairs and motivated by creating real-world change? If so, we’ve got a brilliant opportunity for you to join our team as our Policy and Public Affairs Officer at Young Enterprise.

Who We Are

We’re Young Enterprise – a national charity with a bold mission: to give every young person the skills, confidence, and mindset to thrive in the changing world of work.

For over 60 years, we’ve empowered more than 7 million young people through hands-on enterprise and financial education programmes. Whether it’s launching a student business or learning how to manage money, we help young people develop key life skills—teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, and resilience.

We’re a passionate, down-to-earth team of 90+ staff and 2,000+ volunteers who believe that every young person, regardless of background, deserves a fair start in life.

Why Join Us?

We think Young Enterprise is a great place to work—and we’re proud of our people-first culture. Here’s what you can expect:

• A friendly and supportive team where your voice is heard
• A strong commitment to diversity and inclusion—we want everyone to feel they belong
• Generous holiday allowance and flexible working
• Cycle-to-work scheme, life assurance, and NHS top-up plan
• Ongoing learning and mentoring opportunities
• A chance to directly impact the lives of young people every single day

About the Role

This is an exciting opportunity to join Young Enterprise at a key moment of growth and ambition for our policy and public affairs work. As Policy and Public Affairs Officer, you’ll help shape how we champion the voices and experiences of young people, ensuring their needs are reflected in decisions about education, skills and financial capability. Working closely with the Policy Lead and colleagues across the organisation, you’ll support the development of evidence-informed policy positions and contribute to impactful influencing and engagement activity.

This role is ideal for someone who is curious about how policy is made, enjoys working with ideas and evidence, and is motivated by the chance to create real-world change for young people. You’ll gain hands-on experience across research, stakeholder engagement, campaigns and parliamentary activity, in a fast-paced and supportive environment that values learning and collaboration.

If you’re passionate about social impact, enjoy writing and organising, and want to build a career in policy, public affairs or the charity sector, this role offers a fantastic platform to develop your skills while making a meaningful difference.

You’ll love this job if you are…

• Passionate about improving opportunities and outcomes for young people.
• Curious about policy, politics and public affairs, and keen to learn how change happens.
• A clear and confident writer who enjoys turning research and evidence into compelling messages.
• Organised, proactive and comfortable juggling multiple priorities in a fast-moving environment.
• Enjoy designing, organising and supporting engaging events for a range of audiences.
• Motivated by working collaboratively with a wide range of colleagues and external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor developments in education, skills and related policy areas, identifying what they mean for young people and Young Enterprise’s work.
• Support the development of Young Enterprise’s policy positions through research, analysis and evidence gathering.
• Help plan and deliver public affairs and stakeholder engagement activities, including events, parliamentary briefings and meetings.
• Contribute to campaigns that aim to influence policy and raise the profile of issues affecting young people.
• Draft high-quality written outputs such as consultation responses, meeting notes, articles and social media content.
• Support policy networks and relationships, including Secretariat support for the APPG for Financial Education for Young People.
• Work closely with colleagues across programmes, research, communications and fundraising to align policy priorities and messaging.
• Coordinate the practical organisation of policy events, meetings and stakeholder communications. 

A few practical things

• This is a hybrid role, with a minimum requirement to work from our London office in Brunswick Square at least 8 days per month.
• The role involves regular travel to Westminster for meetings and events, and occasional travel to other parts of the UK.
• Occasional evening and weekend work will be required for events, with time off in lieu provided.
• There are no specific physical or manual handling requirements associated with this role.

How to Apply

If you’re ready to help shape the futures of young people, we want to hear from you!

Please send your CV and a cover letter answering the three questions below. Applications that do not directly address these questions will not be considered.  Applications must be submitted by 12:00 noon on 22 May 2026.

1.Interest in Young Enterprise (max 250 words)

What attracted you to Young Enterprise and the Policy and Public Affairs Officer role?

2.Experience and Achievements (max 250 words)

Tell us about your personal or professional achievements that you’re proud of which demonstrate your ability to:  

a. organise an activity or event

b. manage competing priorities

c. support others

3.Skills for the Role (max 250 words)

What relevant or transferable skills and experience would you bring to this role?

Should your written application be successful, an optional informal call will be offered to discuss the role with and answer any questions you might have. Following this, an in-person interview will take place in Young Enterprise’s London Office week commencing 1 June 2026, which will include a short written task, and the potential for a follow up online interview with a few colleagues across the organisation. Please note, we are only able to respond to shortlisted candidates. 

Full details can be found in the Job Description.

At YE we are passionate and committed to keeping your data safe and secure.  Full details can be found in the YE People’s Privacy Notice.

Join us – and help us give every young person the chance to thrive. Apply today!

Research Policy and Partnerships Officer

We’re looking for a Research Policy and Partnerships Officer to join the team.

Applications from individuals who are seeking flexible working options, including reduced hours or job shares are welcomed.

Position: CE402 Research Policy and Partnerships Officer

Location: Home-based, UK Nationwide. However, occasional travel will be required as part of this role (may include team meetings or other work related meetings)

Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week

Salary: Circa £35,500 (inner London weighting £3,950 per annum or outer London weighting £2,457 per annum may be applied in accordance to where you live)

Contract: Permanent

Benefits: 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays (this will increase with service up to 30 days, full time equivalent) cashback and discount scheme, employee assistance programme, learning and development, pension scheme, Life Assurance, Eye Care vouchers, Long Service Award, Tax-free childcare, Health Cash Plan, Working Pattern Agreement, flexible working opportunities available.

Closing Date: 8 May 2026. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role.

Interview Date: 26 May 2026

The Role

The Research Policy and Partnerships Officer monitors UK research policy and governance developments, synthesises evidence and supports preparation of clear internal briefings, policy statements and consultation responses.

Reporting to the Research Policy and Partnerships Manager, the role helps ensure the Association’s research portfolio and the Research Academy remain well aligned to national frameworks and governance standards, and that lived experience is appropriately reflected in system facing outputs.

The role also supports the Research Policy and Partnerships Manager in building and maintain partnerships with research funders, medical research charities, academic institutions and health system leaders.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Conduct structured horizon scanning across NIHR, UKRI, REF, AMRC guidance and other charity funders to identify opportunities.
• Maintain a stakeholder and policy activity map; coordinate inputs for meetings with key partners, funders/sector bodies.
• Collate and integrate lived experience evidence in policy work (with Involvement colleagues).
• Support partnerships with research funders, medical research charities, academic institutions and health system leaders, coordinating meetings, shared resources and monitoring commitments and agreements

About You

You will:

• Be educated to degree level in a science, health, social science or related discipline
• Have experience of collaborative working with senior internal and external stakeholders, supporting partnership building in research, clinical and/or voluntary sectors

To fulfil the role, you must be a resident of the UK and have the right to work in the UK

Please state any preferences for flexible options in your covering letter.

Finding strength through support

The organisation is the only charity in the UK providing lifelong support for all stroke survivors and their families. Providing tailored support to tens of thousands of stroke survivors each year. This support includes one-to-one and group support, funding vital scientific research into stroke prevention, acute treatment, recovery and long-term care, and campaigning to secure the best care for everyone affected by stroke. 

They are here for stroke survivors and their loved ones, from the moment they enter the new and frightening post-stroke world, supporting them every step of the way as they find their strength and their way back to life.

It’s only thanks to the generosity of supporters and donors that they can provide vital support. 

The Association is driven by an ambition to improve the lives of everyone affected by stroke. This means they’re determined to create an equitable and inclusive workplace that benefits from the difference, and thrives on the diversity, of our people. Guided by an approach to solving inequity in stroke, the team are prioritising listening to, and learning from, lived experience across the charity.

The charity are working to improve the representation of this lived experience at all levels within the Association and are eager to recruit applicants from a variety of communities and backgrounds. We are keen to receive applications from people affected by stroke, people of colour, members of LGBT+ communities, and disabled people because these identities and experiences are underrepresented and would add enormous value to how the organisation work.

A Disability Confident employer, the organisation is making great progress focusing on flexible working, reasonable adjustments and access to work.

You may also have experience in areas such as Research Officer, Research and Policy Officer, Partnerships Officer, Research Policy and Partnerships Officer, Research and Policy, Policy and Partnerships.

Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client, Not For Profit People. #INDNFP

Salary: £48,000 per annum

Contract Type: Permanent

Location: UK (minimum 2 days per week in the London office)

Work Pattern: Full-time, 37.5 hours per week with the opportunity for flexible working hours

Reporting To : Associate Director Advocacy & Campaigns

HOW TO APPLY

Please submit an anonymised CV and covering letter (please remove any identifying details such as name, address, or photos) by 23:00 on Monday 25 May via Workable.

In your covering letter, please demonstrate your motivations for applying for the role, how the position aligns with your career plans, and the experience (professional, voluntary, or lived) that makes you a strong fit for the role in line with our values and the criteria outlined in the job description.

We encourage candidates to ensure their responses reflect their own skills, experiences, and personal voice. If AI tools are used, candidates will be asked to explain how and why they used them. Please see our Using AI - Guidance for Job Applicants for further assistance.

INTERVIEW STAGES

The selection process will consist of three stages (dates will be confirmed with shortlisted candidates):

• First-round interview w/c 1 June 2026
• Second-round interview w/c 15 June 2026

Candidates will be asked to prepare a presentation (10 minutes maximum) on a policy and campaigning topic. Candidates should allocate no more than 3 hours to prepare this task.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Mission 44 exists to drive change and build a fairer, more inclusive future for young people around the world. As our work continues to expand, so does our ambition to influence policy, shift power, and drive systemic change by addressing the barriers young people face and advancing evidence-based solutions.

The Senior Manager, Policy & Campaigns will be central to this mission, leading the development of policy positions and research that strengthens Mission 44’s ability to influence decision-makers and shape public discourse.

Mission 44’s impact model brings together strategic investment (through grantmaking) and targeted influence to drive systemic change. The Senior Manager will work closely with grantmaking teams to ensure that insight from funded work is embedded in policy and research, while also feeding learning and evidence back into funding strategies to strengthen decision-making and maximise impact.

The role will lead and manage Mission 44’s policy and research agenda, acting as a key point of contact for partners and building trusted relationships across government, the education and youth sectors, and civil society. The role will lead the development of policy recommendations, commission and translate research into clear, actionable outputs, and collaborate with internal teams and partners to align policy priorities with wider organisational objectives and maximise influence.

The role also plays a critical role in advocacy and external engagement, ensuring Mission 44’s voice is present in key policy moments, supporting strategic campaigns, and connecting research and insight to high-impact opportunities that drive political attention and sustained change at a national and global level.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

POLICY

• Lead the development and delivery of Mission 44’s policy strategy, aligned to organisational priorities and focused on driving systemic change for young people
• Develop clear, evidence-based policy positions and recommendations that influence government, civil society, the education sector and key decision-makers
• Build and maintain trusted relationships with policymakers, advisors, think tanks, academics, and sector leaders to strengthen Mission 44’s influence
• Identify and shape opportunities to influence policy agendas, consultations and legislative processes at national and global levels
• Work cross-functionally to align policy priorities with external engagement and advocacy activity
• Monitor and analyse political and policy developments across relevant landscapes, leading on timely evidence-led responses and providing strategic insight and recommendations
• Track and evaluate the impact of policy and advocacy activity, using insights to refine strategy and approach
• Account manage Mission 44’s external policy and research partners and consultants, ensuring high-quality delivery and value for money

CAMPAIGNS

• Support the design and delivery of integrated advocacy campaigns that connect policy, research and storytelling to drive political attention and action

• Work closely with partners and young people to co-create campaigns, ensuring their voices and experiences shape campaign priorities, policy recommendations and delivery approaches
• Work cross-functionally with communications and partnerships teams to maximise influence
• Identify and leverage key moments, partnerships and platforms to elevate Mission 44’s voice and policy agenda
• Contribute to campaign messaging and narratives that translate policy positions into compelling calls to action for target audiences

RESEARCH

• Commission and oversee high-quality research, ensuring outputs are rigorous, relevant, and actionable
• Translate complex research and data into compelling policy briefs, reports, and insight-driven narratives to support advocacy and influence

• Ensure all policy and research outputs are accessible, inclusive and reflect the lived experiences of young people

ABOUT YOU: SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

ESSENTIAL 

• Strong experience in policy development with a track record of influencing decision-makers
• Experience shaping or contributing to successful community-led movements, advocacy campaigns or policy change initiatives
• Deep understanding of political and policy-making processes, ideally in education, employment, social justice, or youth-focused areas
• Experience in participatory and youth-centred research approaches, including co-creation with young people and gathering insight through polling, perception studies and stakeholder engagement - alongside more traditional research methods
• Ability to translate complex research and evidence into clear, persuasive policy recommendations and narratives
• Proven experience building and managing senior stakeholder relationships across government, civil society, education, employment and/or youth sectors
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including producing high-quality briefings, reports and consultation responses
• Experience leading projects and managing external partners 
• Strategic thinking skills, with the ability to identify and act on opportunities to influence policy agendas

DESIRABLE

• Experience working in or with government, think tanks, charities or advocacy organisations
• Experience in working with young people to create campaigns or advocacy initiatives
• Knowledge of UK and/or international policy landscapes relevant to Mission 44’s focus areas
• Familiarity with youth engagement approaches and/or incorporating lived experience into policy development
• Experience working with high-profile stakeholders
• Understanding of media and communications as a tool for policy influence

PERSONAL QUALITIES  

• Passionate about creating a fairer, more inclusive future for young people around the world 
• Highly motivated, proactive, and able to operate effectively in a fast-paced, evolving environment
• Strong relationship builder
• Collaborative mindset, with the ability to work cross-functionally and bring others with you
• Confident and persuasive, with the ability to engage and influence senior audiences
• Analytical and curious, with a strong attention to detail
• Resilient and adaptable, with the ability to manage competing priorities and ambiguity
• Works flexibly and proactively without close supervision

Benefits

• Enjoy 28 days annual leave, plus a day for your birthday
• Use our cycle-to-work scheme and free gym access
• Save for retirement with our generous pension package
• We finish every Friday at noon in August
• Optional health insurance and acccess to an EAP
• Professional development budget of £1k
• Unlimited volunteering leave, as agreed with your manager
• Wellbeing allowance to spend in whatever way works for you
• Competitive parental leave package

Independent Age is the national charity focused on improving the lives of people facing financial hardship in later life. We believe no one should face financial hardship in later life. 

The Senior Media and PR Officer will undertake communication projects to support all areas of the charity to raise awareness and understanding of Independent Age, to secure policy change to tackle poverty in later life, and to drive potential supporters to our activities. 

Our Helpline and expert advisers offer free, practical support to older people without enough money to live on. Through our grants programme, we support hundreds of local organisations working with older people across the UK.

We use the knowledge and insight gained from our support services and partnerships to highlight the issues experienced by older people in poverty and campaign for change. 

We would love to find individuals from all walks of life and diverse backgrounds to join us on this journey.

Responsibilities and Person Specification: 

This role supports the charity’s media and PR programme, helping to secure positive coverage and strengthen its reputation through proactive and reactive communications. It will contribute to the organisation’s ambition by increasing awareness, influence, and engagement with key audiences across traditional and digital media channels. 

Working within the media communications team, the post-holder will lead on media planning and PR projects, identifying opportunities for both short-term campaigns (such as report launches) and longer-term storytelling by spotting future hooks and moments to promote key messages and calls to action. The role will also support wider team strategy development and contribute to a busy and responsive press office. 

You should have experience in media relations and press office activity, including drafting high-quality media materials such as press releases, statements, op-eds and thought leadership content. You will also need strong judgement to respond to enquiries, manage reputational issues in real time, build relationships with journalists and outlets across the UK nations, and monitor, evaluate and report on media coverage. 

For full details on the role and requirements, please review the job description and person specification.  If your experience doesn’t align perfectly with all of the criteria in the person specification but you do meet most of them and are excited about the role, we encourage you to apply anyway.

This is a full-time role, 35 hours per week, which you can choose to work over five days or a 9 day fortnight.

What it’s like to work at Independent Age: 

We celebrate diversity at Independent Age and champion the differences that make each of us unique. We actively support and encourage people from a variety of backgrounds, experiences and skill sets to join us and help shape what we do. We aim to attract and retain a wide range of talent and create an environment where everyone can feel safe, protected, welcome and included. 

We offer great benefits including 28 days annual leave plus public holidays, a generous pension scheme with life assurance, and fantastic learning and development opportunities. We also offer a number of enhanced leave provisions and benefits. 

We know that a good work life balance helps us perform at our best and supports wellbeing. Flexible working hours and hybrid working is standard for all (those contracted to work in the office usually attend 1 day per week). But if you need a different form of flexibility, we are always happy to talk flexible working.

You can find out more about what it’s like to work at Independent Age on the careers page of our website. 

Application Process: 

To apply, please submit a CV and a Supporting Statement, detailing how your skills and experience meet the criteria within the Job Description and Person Specification, by visiting our jobs website (please do not hesitate to contact us if you have specific requirements and need support to apply in an alternative format). 

To support our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion our hiring managers use anonymous shortlisting. Therefore, please do not include your name, photo, or information to indicate your gender or age in your CV and supporting statement. Please do not omit dates of employment. Please ensure the title of any uploads does not contain your name.

Independent Age is committed to safeguarding and follows Safer Recruitment practices to ensure we are safeguarding those we work with. We therefore ask that you supply your full work history with explanations for any gaps in the application documents you submit and, if offered the post, we will require two employment references including your current or most recent employer. A Basic DBS Certificate will be required for this role. 

Closing Date: Monday 11 May 2026, 11:59pm 

Interview Dates: Tuesday 19th and Wednesday 20th May via Microsoft Teams

The Talent Set are delighted to be partnering with Paul Hamlyn Foundation to recruit an Interim Policy and Projects Lead to join their Strategic Learning, Insight and Influence team.

This is a highly outward-facing role at the heart of the Foundation’s influencing work. The successful candidate will provide high-quality policy insight, research, and strategic support, helping the Foundation stay informed about the policy landscape affecting its priority areas, particularly young people, migration, education, arts and social justice. The role will also play an important part in strengthening partnerships, shaping advocacy activity, and supporting cross-foundation collaboration.

Key Responsibilities
 

• Undertake horizon scanning and provide policy insight, analysis and briefings for senior leaders and trustees
• Support the design and delivery of influencing and advocacy activity, including convenings and joint initiatives with external partners
• Conduct research and draft consultation responses aligned with the Foundation’s strategic priorities
• Contribute to strategic communications by developing clear, evidence-based messages and narratives
• Work collaboratively across teams to share learning, strengthen organisational insight, and support a small number of grant relationships

Person Specification

• Experience working in a policy, advocacy, research or influencing environment
• Strong analytical, research and writing skills, with the ability to communicate complex issues clearly
• Proven ability to build effective relationships and work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders
• Confidence engaging with senior audiences and contributing to strategic discussions
• A strong commitment to social justice, equity and the values of Paul Hamlyn Foundation

What’s on Offer

Salary: £37,000 per annum
Contract: 12 month fixed-term (full-time, 35 hours per week)
Location: Hybrid working (minimum 40% in the London office)
Flexibility: Part-time and secondment arrangements considered
Benefits: Generous pension, annual leave, and wellbeing benefits

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your CV demonstrating your suitability for this role by clicking the 'apply now' button (please do not apply via email). We aim to get back to all successful candidates within 48 working hours.

Commitment to Diversity

The Talent Set are committed to diverse and inclusive recruitment practices, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, disability, or age. We actively encourage applications from a wide range of backgrounds and are always happy to make reasonable adjustments to ensure a fair recruitment process.

We recognise that the person specification is detailed, and you may feel you do not meet all the criteria.  If you don’t meet 100% of the requirements but believe you can thrive in the role we encourage you to apply.

Location(s)   

This position is open to candidates currently based in Scotland, in line with the role’s operational requirements. The role is home-based with in person attendance to our ‘All Staff Days’ in London (5 per year), team meetings (roughly 6 meetings per year) and occasional travel to other meetings and Westminster as required. Where possible, these are combined with an overnight stay. 

London office: AdviceUK, 83 Victoria Street, London, SW1H 0HW 

Job Title:  Policy and External Affairs Manager (Scotland) 

Employment Type:  Part-time 

Reporting to:  Head of Policy, Programmes and Media 

Pay scale: £40,000 - £42,500 Full time equivalent  (Actual salary £32,000-34,000)

Interview: In person interviews will take place on Friday 29th May at our London office

Working hours: 28 hours per week (4 days/0.8) within normal operating hours. Flexible working arrangements will be considered. (Normal operating hours are 8.00am - 6.30pm, Monday – Friday.) Lunch & other breaks are unpaid. 

Special conditions: Some evening and weekend work may be required for which time off in lieu (TOIL) will be granted. Some travel will be required which may entail some overnight stays.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all backgrounds, particularly encouraging those from underrepresented groups. 

CHARITY OVERVIEW 

Since 1979, AdviceUK has been supporting advice organisations by helping them to be efficient, competent and effective, and by campaigning for a policy environment that supports advice agencies and people needing advice.

We are both a membership body and charity. We support our 700+ members (109 of which are located in Scotland) to provide advice to around 2 million people every year. We are working towards a world in which every individual, regardless of means, is able to access the advice they need to exercise their rights and deal with any legal and social welfare challenges they may face. 

JOB PURPOSE  

To set up and manage our policy and public affairs activities in Scotland ensuring AdviceUK has a strong voice, so we can secure policy change to benefit organisations delivering advice and the communities they serve. The post holder will be responsible for establishing AdviceUK’s first policy and influencing strategy for Scotland, including through developing policy solutions informed by strong evidence and rooted in member experience, and leading effective political and stakeholder engagement which will influence change. They will work closely with colleagues across the UK to join up policy, influencing and communications work. 

KEY TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES  

1.Strategy 

1.1 Develop AdviceUK’s first policy and influencing strategy for Scotland, through consultation with members and stakeholders and analysis of the landscape and opportunities in Scottish policy making. 

1.2 Put plans in place to roll out a specific programme of proactive and reactive policy work to further AdviceUK’s strategic aims in Scotland and represent the voices of Scottish members. 

1.3 Devise measures to monitor the impact of our policy and influencing work in Scotland and report back to staff, trustees, members and stakeholders about the difference we are making. 

2.Policy development 

2.1 Collaborate with AdviceUK members, partners, sector stakeholders and 

beneficiaries to develop clear, concise and authoritative policy positions on key issues. 

2.2 Produce high-quality, well-argued policy materials based on data and evidence, including reports, select committee responses, evidence statements, briefings and responses to Scottish Government consultations. 

2.3 Provide policy input for media statements, press releases and social media posts relating to Scotland, which are managed by the Press Officer and Digital Marketing Officer.

2.4 Develop an expert knowledge of policy issues affecting Advice UK members, keep up to date on the political and legislative environment and identify opportunities to use these to further Advice UK’s strategic objectives. 

2.5 Represent AdviceUK at policy and/or sector meetings and events.

3. Public affairs 

3.1 Roll out a programme of public affairs work including Scottish parliamentary engagement to promote AdviceUK’s strategic priorities. 

3.2 Build and maintain effective relationships with stakeholders across the Scottish Government and parliament, local and decision makers, non-governmental bodies and other relevant stakeholders. 

3.3 Champion an evidence based approach to all Advice UK’s advocacy and external relations work, drawing on research and member insight to inform our campaign messages. 

3.4 Ensure regular opportunities for Advice UK members in Scotland to feed into our public affairs and advocacy work, and regular communications on our impact, to demonstrate how we amplify their voice. 

3.5 Monitor and evaluate public affairs work, including collecting relevant metrics, to report back on our success and inform future campaigns. 

4. Research and data 

4.1 Work with Policy, Programme and Media (PPM) colleagues as well as the wider AdviceUK team to develop the evidence base needed to inform our policy and campaigns work in Scotland. 

4.2 Work with the Research and Policy Analyst to carry out analysis that identifies emerging trends in the Scottish advice world and use this to provide evidence-based policy briefings and specific policy solutions. 

5. General duties 

5.1 Ensure you effectively communicate Advice UK’s vision, mission and objectives to staff, members and external stakeholders.

5.2 Ensure you demonstrate Advice UK’s values and behaviours in all aspects of your work

5.3 Build and maintain positive relationships with key stakeholders including staff trustees; members, partners and suppliers 

5.4 With support from your manager, deliver your agreed personal objectives and undertake any agreed development or training

5.5 Maintain a strong understanding of our members and the advice sector more generally, by reading internal reports; accessing relevant data reports; following our social media channels and, where possible, attending member and other relevant events. With the agreement of you line manager, ensure you make time to speak to members and visit their services.

5.6 Adhere at all times to Advice UK’s policies and procedures

5.7 Carry out any reasonable duties compatible with the post assigned by your line manager 

Transport for All has a strong reputation for leading the debate and advocating for change to improve the journeys made by disabled people. This role presents an opportunity for a strong leader with the commitment, enthusiasm and expertise to build on our success.

Our Chief Executive will be responsible for continuing to delivering the remainder of our 5-year strategy, whilst horizon-scanning to work with the team and wider DPO community to engage in the opportunities and changes ahead. We’re a small team and this is a wide-ranging role which includes:

• Representing the voice of the 16 million+ people in the disabled community by influencing policy and infrastructure decision-makers through our campaigns.

• Overseeing a highly regarded policy and public affairs function with associated communications and stakeholder engagement, maintaining our high profile and reputation with national and local governments.

• Ensuring the charity’s funding is robust and sustainable, looking at how we can diversify our income and direct it towards what matters through continuing to deliver our strategy and planning for our future.

• Overall responsibility for our successful training, research and consultancy business, building partnerships and further growth. This includes the National Accessible Transport Survey.

• Championing our award-winning support services for disabled people.

• Leading our expert teams through a period of growth and consolidation, embedding a strong organisational culture and matching our structure and systems to our upcoming challenges and increasing size.

You will report to and be supported by a well-functioning and committed Board of Trustees who are professionals with experience of working in the charity and transport sectors, as well as finance, legal and government backgrounds.

We are seeking an exceptional leader to be our next chief executive, leading a respected and influential membership organisation at the heart of a thriving grassroots movement.

You’ll be working to build on the success we’ve seen and strong position and voice we have established for ourselves and our members, as a leading force for inclusive and sustainable transport and communities.

You’ll bring an impressive track record in values-based leadership, a proven ability to engage and inspire grassroots change-makers, strategic partners and policy-makers, and a deep belief in the importance of community-led change towards a sustainable, equitable future.

About us

Community Rail Network is a national not-for-profit organisation, which is in the process of applying for charitable status, 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 77 community-based organisations, and around 1,300 station 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 dispersed locations, but we come together regularly in person and online. We work collaboratively to support members, provide training, events and resources, run campaigns, and champion community rail and its insights. We believe in helping everyone reach their potential while having a good work-life balance.

About this role, and your main responsibilities

Our current CEO is moving on after nine years in role, leaving the organisation, team and wider movement in a strong and empowered position to deliver on the next phase of our development.

Your opportunity is to lead the organisation, and to deliver on our new five-year strategy setting an ambitious course for the future during a period of major transformation for our railways and the wider transport system. You will ensure that we are:

• clear in our identity and our independence, and seen as thought leaders in our field;
• are supporting our members and stakeholders to meet their changing and diverse needs; and
• ensuring the financial and operational resilience of the organisation in an environment that is undergoing a period of rapid change.

As CEO, you will lead a passionate and experienced senior leadership team with three direct reports, while working closely with and reporting into our Board, key partners and funders, and ensuing an engaging, empowering, tenacious approach across all we do.

Advocacy of community rail and its benefits will be high on your agenda, and you will be working closely across multiple stakeholders including UK and devolved national governments, regional and local authorities as well as forging collaborative partnerships with like-minded organisations.

Maintaining our community-centric ethos, you will need to ensure we're effective in enabling members to unlock greater value from the railways at a grassroots level, while drawing on their insights to affect wider change. With hundreds of member groups and organisations across Britain delivering life-changing, place-enhancing work, you will have a solid foundation to build on, to take community rail forward and expand our impact in the years ahead.

Last, but not least, you will be responsible for ensuring the strong and effective governance of the organisation, modelling our governing principles, values and behaviours, and ensuring that we have robust financial and resource management in place.

Skills, competencies and qualities

1. Exceptional leadership skills, including a proven ability to lead, develop and grow third sector organisations or multi-faceted teams delivering complex activities, projects and campaigns;
2. Excellent communication and external leadership skills: articulate, assertive, with the ability to work diplomatically and persuasively with stakeholders at all levels;
3. Experienced in acting as the public face of an organisation, such as through the media, public speaking and high-level meetings, and using evidence and storytelling to articulate and champion a cause;
4. Politically astute, with knowledge of and commitment to social inclusion, social justice and sustainability, and a sound grasp of the importance of public transport, sustainable travel, and community-led action;
5. A proven ability to influence policy and decision-makers, and to identify influencing opportunities, ideally in relation to community development, sustainability and/or transport, including sharing community insights;
6. A strong track record in income generation and development, building strong funder relationships and delivery partnerships, managing programme or organisational budgets and controlling expenditure;
7. Experience of working with and/or reporting to a board, ideally in a not-for-profit and/or membership context;
8. An empowering, engaging approach to leadership, management and change-making;
9. Resilient, pragmatic and determined, with the ability to work under pressure, seize emergent opportunities, manage risk, and support others dealing with competing priorities.

Other information

The role will involve extensive travel within Britain as part of building your profile and that of the organisation with central and devolved government in Scotland and Wales, and increasingly with the devolved regions of England.

There is flexibility on location given the requirement to travel and that your office will be home-based. You will need to travel to in-person quarterly team meetings (usually in London or West Yorkshire) and to Board meetings which alternate between online and London. It is expected that travel will be by public transport and easy access to the rail network is therefore required to ensure journeys can 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. 

Benefits: 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays (rising up to 30 days, plus Bank Holidays, in line with long service); pension with employer contribution of 7%; and access to Employee Assistance Programme.

Successful applicants will need to provide proof that they have the right to work in the UK and provide two references.

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.

About the Nature Friendly Farming Network (NFFN)

The Nature Friendly Farming Network is a UK-wide, farmer-led organisation working to restore the balance between farming and nature. 

We support farmers by sharing practical knowledge, resources and case studies that help boost food production, protect wildlife, and build climate resilience.

We influence policy to secure fair rewards for farmers who look after the environment, and we connect thousands of like-minded farmers across the UK through knowledge sharing, events and campaigns.

Membership is free and open to farmers, the public and organisations.
 

About the role

We are looking for a Parliamentary Engagement Officer to strengthen our engagement with policymakers across the UK.

This is an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of farming, environment and policy. You will play a key role in ensuring that farmer experience and evidence are reflected in parliamentary discussions, helping to shape conversations that impact the future of farming.

Working directly with the Chief Executive and closely with the policy team, you will monitor parliamentary activity, identify opportunities for engagement, and support timely and well-informed interaction with MPs, peers and their teams. You will also work across the organisation, including with country teams and farmer steering groups, to ensure engagement reflects priorities across all UK nations.

This is a practical, fast-paced role suited to someone who is organised, politically aware, and able to respond quickly to emerging opportunities.

Key responsibilities

• Monitor parliamentary activity across Westminster and the devolved parliaments, identifying relevant debates, questions, committees and opportunities for engagement

• Maintain a forward view on key parliamentary activity and upcoming moments of influence

• Produce and circulate clear, concise briefings on parliamentary activity and recommended areas for engagement

• Draft and support the submission of parliamentary questions, briefings and lines for MPs, peers and their staff

• Build and maintain relationships with MPs, peers, advisers and parliamentary staff across parties

• Support coordinated engagement with political stakeholders, ensuring activity is timely and aligned with organisational priorities

• Work with colleagues and partners to support effective and aligned parliamentary engagement

• Support relationships between farmers and parliamentarians, including organising farm visits and meetings where appropriate

• Translate farmer experience and insights into clear and practical input for parliamentary engagement

• Support the planning and delivery of parliamentary events, meetings and roundtables

• Organise meetings with MPs, peers and advisers, including preparing briefings and follow-up actions

• Maintain accurate records of parliamentary contacts and engagement activity, and support internal reporting

• Contribute to campaign activity and wider organisational work where required

What we are looking for

You will bring:

• A working understanding of how the UK Parliament and devolved legislatures operate, and how to engage effectively with those processes

• Experience engaging with political, policy or stakeholder environments

• Strong writing skills, with the ability to produce clear and concise briefings and summaries

• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail

• The ability to manage competing priorities and respond quickly to emerging opportunities

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective working relationships

• The ability to translate complex or real-world information into clear, practical input

• Confidence working independently in a remote team environment

• An interest in farming, environmental issues or public policy

Additional information

The NFFN is a politically neutral organisation. This role requires the ability to engage constructively with stakeholders across all political parties and UK nations.

Deputy Head of Assessment - Governance and Policy

London

£50,956 

Working hours – full time (35 hours a week) - you’ll agree your working pattern with your manager (core working hours are 10:00 - 16:00).

Location – London, hybrid homeworking (minimum 6 days a month in office)

Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for medical education? Do you have experience of managing a team and working with external stakeholders? If so, this could be the role for you!

The postholder will work closely with a team of data analysts, policy officers and committee administrators, along with volunteer clinicians, to ensure that MRCP(UK) examinations adhere to regulatory requirements and meet academic objectives.

Key Responsibilities within this role include:

• Managing a multi-disciplinary team to ensure that the high standards of MRCP(UK) examinations are maintained
• Supporting and deputising for the Head of Assessment Governance and Policy
• Responsibility for overseeing key regulatory processes, including appeals, misconduct and reasonable adjustments
• Writing reports, policy documents, and regulations
• Attending meetings examining board and committee meetings
• Working closely with volunteer clinicians.

Their ideal Candidate will have:

• Proven experience in team management and development
• Strong ability to organise workloads effectively and meet deadlines
• A track record of successfully managing change
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills
• Experience in a similar role (e.g., in an education or e-learning environment) would be advantageous

Closing date: 18 May 2026

Interviewing date: TBC

Our client positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, transgender status, religion or belief, marital status or pregnancy and maternity. 

Our client is all about their people – their members, staff, volunteers and leaders. They educate, influence and collaborate to improve health and healthcare for everyone and know they can only do this by being inclusive, encouraging and celebrating diverse perspectives. Welcoming into their community people who represent the 21st-century medical workforce and the diverse population of patients they serve is a priority for them.