Policy research 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.
Non Charity Employer
21 - 50
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.
Thank you!
Birthrights is recruiting a Campaigns and Policy Manager to help drive transformative change in maternity care. This is a powerful opportunity to shape national policy and campaigns that centre human rights, racial justice and the lived experiences of women and birthing people.
Reporting to the CEO, you will lead our policy and campaigns strategy, shaping how we influence government, the NHS, regulators and professional bodies. You will identify leverage points for change, develop strong and persuasive policy positions, and deliver bold, creative campaigns that challenge harmful practice and shift power. Working closely with our legal, information & advice, training and communications teams, you will ensure our policy and campaigning work is grounded in evidence, lived experience and human rights law.
You will also contribute strategically to Communities Imagine — a core organisational initiative rooted in racial justice, community leadership and a radical re-imagining of maternity care — while working alongside and supporting dedicated roles focused on its delivery.
Birthrights is a small but mighty charity with a national profile and a strong track record of influencing maternity policy and practice. We offer flexible, remote working, a supportive team culture and generous benefits.
If you are a values-driven campaigner with a passion for racial justice, reproductive justice and human rights, we would love to hear from you.
Closing date: 12 noon on Monday 26th January – please refer to the candidate pack for full details.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Location (UK): Office Hybrid* - Glasgow
Hours: 35 hours per week, Full-time
Salary: £40,295 per annum (rest of UK)
Benefits: Read more about the
Contract type: Fixed-term until August 2026
Travel: Travel between our Glasgow office and the Scottish Parliament will be required on a monthly basis with additional occasional travel around Scotland.
Closing date: 23:59 hours, Monday 05 January 2026
Join us and use your skills, knowledge, passion and energy to help us achieve a future free from arthritis.
About the role
As part of Scotland's policy and influencing team, you will play a critical role in shaping and influence policy thinking, managing time-sensitive projects across our policy priority areas, and building relationships with stakeholders and decision-makers across Scotland.
You will gather, analyse, and share information about external policy developments and their implications for people with arthritis, developing policy positions, producing evidence-based briefings and reports and contributing to consultation responses.
As well as working closely with nation influencing colleagues and teams across the Services and Devolved Nations Directorate, you will work closely with the UK Advocacy and Health Intelligence team, Research Directorate and Strategic Communications teams, including representing us on cross-sector policy groups and participating in events and conferences.
We'll give you autonomy, variety and challenge with opportunities to lead projects, to work together with inspirational campaigners and people with arthritis, as well as collaborate with senior Scottish Government and NHS Scotland stakeholders. We're a supportive team who will value your well-being and professional development.
About you
You will have ready-made resourcefulness, be a creative thinker, with strong analytical, written and verbal communications skills. An enthusiastic, adaptive and flexible approach is important, together with an ability to work with autonomy and across teams as well as:
- Experience of influencing external policy and decision making within Scotland.
- Understanding of current healthcare policy issues relevant to people with long-term conditions or disability.
- Experience of drafting policy papers and briefings, and the ability to understand and articulate academic research and policy papers.
*As a hybrid worker the expectation is that you will spend around 40% of your working time in our office spaces or working in community settings.
As an inclusive employer we will consider home-based working for anyone where office-based hybrid working would be a barrier to being able to work for us, for example for someone living with a long-term health condition or disability.
Application deadline and shortlisting
- We advise candidates to apply early as we reserve the right to close applications ahead of this date.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
We do not wish to receive contact from agencies or media sales.
Please note that we do not use Artificial Intelligence (AI) during our recruitment and selection processes, and we would respectfully ask that you also refrain from using AI during the selection process. Whilst we do recognise that AI may be a beneficial tool for some when aiding research and preparation for an application or interview, we want to maintain a fair, inclusive and positive recruitment experience at Arthritis UK where candidates can feel supported to demonstrate their experience, knowledge, and skills without the use of AI generated answers.
Interview
First interviews expected in week commencing Monday 12 January 2026 at Edward House, Glasgow.
As a Disability Confident Leader, we guarantee you will be offered an interview if you disclose a disability and demonstrate sufficient evidence within your application that you meet the essential criteria for this role. We will also make any reasonable adjustments you may require for your interview.
About us
We have made a commitment in our Diversity and Inclusion Strategy to increase the diversity of our charity and we welcome candidates from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences. We want our employees, volunteers and trustees to represent the broad diversity of the communities of which we are a part.
There are over 10 million people living with arthritis. That's one in six, with over half of those living in pain every single day. The impact is huge as the condition slowly intrudes on everyday life - affecting the ability to work, care for a family, to move free from pain and to live independently. Yet arthritis is often dismissed as an inevitable part of ageing or shrugged off as 'just a bit of arthritis'. We don't think that this is OK. Arthritis UK is here to change that.
Arthritis UK is committed to keeping children, young people and vulnerable adults safe from harm. During the recruitment process we will undertake safer recruitment practices and relevant checks to ensure applicants are suitable to work with children, young people and vulnerable adults.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
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.
Thank you!
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.
Registered Charity
21 - 50
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.
Thank you!
This is an exceptional opportunity to join Belong’s Senior Leadership Team as Director of Policy & Research, a role that sits at the heart of our mission to shape national conversations on cohesion and integration. You will lead Belong’s policy development, research strategy, and national partnerships, ensuring our work is grounded in robust evidence and lived experience. This position offers the chance to influence systemic change, amplify Belong’s voice with policymakers and opinion formers, and ensure our insights drive real-world impact.
As Director of Policy & Research, you will:
- Lead the development of Belong’s policy and research agenda, aligning it with organisational strategy and national priorities.
- Produce high-quality policy outputs, including reports, briefings, consultation responses, and thought leadership pieces.
- Oversee the design and delivery of research projects, including commissioning and partnership work, ensuring rigor and inclusivity.
- Translate research findings into actionable policy recommendations and advocacy strategies.
- Foster strong collaboration between the Policy & Research team and Programme Delivery team, ensuring insights inform both policy and practice.
- Build and maintain relationships with policymakers, parliamentarians, journalists, and opinion formers.
- Represent Belong externally at high-level meetings, events, and in the media, amplifying our impact and reach.
- Develop strategic messaging and narratives that position Belong as a thought leader in social cohesion.
- Support campaigns and public engagement initiatives that promote Belong’s policy goals.
- Contribute to organisational development, strategic planning, and income generation through proposal development and funder engagement.
- Line manage policy and research staff, providing leadership, support, and professional development.
This is a senior leadership role for someone who thrives in a collaborative environment and wants to drive systemic change at scale.
About You
We are seeking a strategic and insightful leader with:
- Proven experience in policy development and research leadership.
- Experience working in or with government, think tanks, or advocacy organisations.
- Strong understanding of social policy and influencing processes.
- Knowledge of cohesion, integration, and community relations.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including media engagement and public speaking.
- Ability to translate complex research into accessible policy messages.
- Familiarity with participatory and applied research methods.
- Strong strategic thinking and planning abilities.
- Relevant qualification in public policy, social research, or a related field.
- Experience managing teams and budgets, and supporting income generation through fundraising and proposal development.
Personal Qualities
- Passionate about improving cohesion and integration in the UK.
- Strategic and visionary thinker.
- Collaborative and inclusive leader.
- Politically astute and intellectually curious.
- Practical, focused, and reliable.
- Committed to personal and professional development.
Why Join Us?
At Belong, you’ll be part of a dynamic, values-driven team united by a shared commitment to creating a more inclusive and connected society. We offer:
- 30 days’ annual leave
- Hybrid working (typically 3 days in the office)
- Enhanced sick pay and family-friendly policies
- 3% pension contribution
- Opportunities for professional development and growth
Join us and help shape national policy and research that builds stronger, kinder, and more connected communities across the UK.
Salary: £65,000–£70,000
Location: UK-wide (regular travel across England and Wales)
Contract: Permanent, Full-time
About Belong
Belong – The Cohesion and Integration Network is the UK’s leading not-for-profit organisation dedicated to building a more united and less divided society. Established in 2019, we work across sectors to strengthen trust, belonging, and resilience in communities. Through research, policy influence, and place-based programmes, we connect people, places, and organisations to share learning and drive systemic change. Our growing membership spans local authorities, charities, civil society, and businesses. Belong is collaborative, evidence-led, and committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Our office is based in Manchester and we offer hybrid working for those able to travel there. However, this role is open UK-wide and can be worked remotely, with regular travel across England and Wales required.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Policy Officer
Hammersmith & Fulham Law Centre
Salary: £38,000
Working hours: 35 per week, full time but will consider part time applicants
This is a hybrid role
Benefits include 30 days annual leave and significant opportunities for learning and development. Our offices in Hammersmith are on the Piccadilly, District and Hammersmith & City Line tubes.
We require a policy officer for our small, friendly team. We are looking for a confident individual with initiative.
The successful candidate will have the ability to identify policy issues in our local community as well as in the wider social justice space. They will work with local grassroots organisations to make systems change.
Closing date: 5pm on 9 January 2026
Description
Your Role will be to:
▪ Obtain and analyse information about sector trends, threats, and opportunities and use these to help shape our work
▪ Work with the CEO and casework teams to identify, develop and deliver campaigns, particularly around issues in our local community
Devise and Develop policy projects including research and producing reports.
▪ Other duties as required that are reasonable and within your capabilities.
Person Specification
Skills and knowledge:
Essential
Educated to degree level and/or can consistently demonstrate degree level outcomes
Knowledge and recent experience gained from work within a policy team
Knowledge of methods used in policy development and influencing
▪ Experience in making, developing and maintaining relationships
▪ Excellent writing and speaking skills
▪ Excellent Analytical and fact-finding skills
▪ Good IT and social media skills
▪ Personal drive, motivation and an ability to work independently
Desirable
▪ Knowledge and experience of social welfare law including immigration, housing, public law and employment
Experience of project management
Other Answers
Location – W6 7AT
Organisation’s cause/ focus*- Justice
Contract type* - contract
Contract length – TBC
Experience level* - Entry level / Graduate and Experienced (non manager)
Keyword boost* - Policy, Engagement / Outreach, Communications
No, we'll hold off on interviews until the job ad has closed
Posting Dates: 19th Dec 25 – 9th Jan 26
Hammersmith & Fulham Law Centre is an equal opportunities employer and encourages applications from all candidates who meet the person specification regardless of age, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability or race.
Please email your CV and covering letter to Dorota Hubiak by clicking apply now
Thank you!
To develop policy goals and recommendations in line with Women for Refugee Women’s (WRW) overarching campaigns strategy to improve the lives of women seeking asylum in the UK; to develop and deliver policy interventions such as policy briefings, evidence for parliamentary committees, responses to inquiries and consultations; to plan and carry out research projects for influencing purposes, ensuring that these are informed by and co-delivered with women in WRW’s network.
We are part of the Experts by Experience Employment Initiative. The network supports inclusive recruitment of people with lived experience of the UK asylum or immigration system. If this is your experience, you can find useful resources on the Experts by Experience Employment Initiative website.
Registered Charity
11 - 20
Women for Refugee Women supports women seeking safety in the UK to rebuild their lives and campaigns alongside them for a compassionate asylum system.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Lead policy and research projects that shape national conversations on cohesion and integration. Join Belong and help create lasting change across the UK.
This is an exciting opportunity to take a pivotal role in delivering high-impact projects that inform practice and influence decision-makers. As Belong enters its next phase of growth, we are determined to deepen our impact, strengthen our resilience, and champion cohesion and integration at scale.
About Belong
Belong – The Cohesion and Integration Network is the UK’s leading not-for-profit organisation focused on building a more united and less divided society. Established in 2019, we work across sectors to strengthen trust, belonging, and resilience in communities. Through research, policy influence, and place-based programmes, we connect people, places, and organisations to share learning and drive systemic change. Our growing membership spans local authorities, charities, civil society, and businesses. Belong is collaborative, evidence-led, and committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
The Role
As Policy and Research Lead, you will design and deliver research and policy projects that inform practice and influence decision-makers. You will produce high-quality outputs, translate evidence into actionable recommendations, and contribute to Belong’s thought leadership. This role combines strategic insight with hands-on delivery and offers the chance to shape national conversations on social cohesion.
Key Responsibilities
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Policy and Research Leadership
- Lead the design and delivery of policy and research projects, ensuring quality, relevance, and impact.
- Produce policy briefings, reports, consultation responses, and thought leadership pieces.
- Translate research findings into actionable recommendations for policymakers and practitioners.
- Ensure projects are inclusive, participatory, and informed by lived experience.
- Monitor policy developments and contribute to strategic positioning and horizon scanning.
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Stakeholder Engagement
- Build and maintain relationships with policymakers, researchers, funders, and sector leaders.
- Represent Belong at external meetings, events, and networks.
- Support collaborative research and policy initiatives with partners and commissioners.
- Contribute to dissemination of Belong’s work through events, media, and digital channels.
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Internal Collaboration
- Support the Director of Policy & Research in developing Belong’s policy influencing strategy.
- Contribute to organisational learning and cross-team collaboration.
- Assist with proposal development and funder engagement.
- Line manage junior staff or associates as required.
About You
We are seeking a strategic and thoughtful leader with:
- Proven experience in leading policy and applied research programmes.
- Experience working in or with government, think tanks, or advocacy organisations.
- Strong analytical and writing skills.
- Knowledge of cohesion, integration, and community development.
- Excellent project management and organisational abilities.
- Familiarity with participatory and inclusive research methods.
- Experience in income generation or bid development.
- Relevant qualification in public policy, social research, or related field.
- Ability to translate complex ideas into accessible messages.
- Politically aware and intellectually curious.
- Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship-building skills.
Personal Qualities
- Passionate about improving cohesion and integration in the UK.
- Strategic and solutions-focused.
- Collaborative and inclusive.
- Practical, reliable, and detail-oriented.
- Committed to personal and professional development.
- Able to thrive in a fast-paced and evolving environment.
Why Join Us?
At Belong, you’ll be part of a dynamic, values-driven team united by a shared commitment to creating a more inclusive and connected society. We offer:
- 30 days’ annual leave (plus bank holidays)
- Hybrid working
- Enhanced sick pay and family-friendly policies
- Opportunities for professional development and growth
Join us and help shape policy and research that builds stronger, kinder, and more connected communities across the UK.
Our office is based in Manchester and we offer hybrid working for those able to travel there. However, this role is open UK-wide and can be worked remotely, with regular travel across England and Wales required.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
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!
Join the leading UK network for British Muslim-led charities and community organisations! Building on your passion for social justice and sector improvement, support the growing sector, advocate for change for minority communities and the user-led organisations who support them.
Job role: Junior Policy and Advocacy Officer
Employer: Muslim Charities Forum
Salary: £29,000 –£32,000 per annum
Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week (4 days office-based, 1 day hybrid/remote)
Position: Fixed Term Contract, 3 years.
Location: London SE1. Nearest stations: Waterloo, Lambeth North
Closing date for applications: 16th December 2025, 5.00pm or until a suitable candidate is identified.
About Muslim Charities Forum (MCF)
Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) is the UK’s leading network for Muslim-led charities, strengthening the capacity, voice and impact of nearly 300 organisations. Guided by our pillars of Support, Connect and Represent, we champion excellence, transparency and social justice through resources, capacity-building, research and advocacy.
We work to tackle structural and funding barriers, influence government, policymakers and the wider sector, and build a more sustainable, equitable Muslim-led charitable landscape. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, we drive systemic change and amplify the contributions of Muslim-led organisations across society.
Role Purpose
The Junior Policy & Advocacy Officer will support the delivery of MCF’s policy, advocacy and research work. Working closely with the Head of Policy & Advocacy, they will contribute to policy monitoring, research projects, member engagement, and influencing activities across government, civil society, and the wider third-sector ecosystem.
This role is ideal for an early-career professional with strong analytical skills, a passion for social justice, and an interest in policy, research, and advocacy relating to the Muslim-led voluntary and community sector.
Key Responsibilities
1. Policy Monitoring and Research Support
• Track and summarise relevant UK policy, regulatory, parliamentary and sector developments related to civil society, charity regulation, funding, equity, inclusion and climate-related legislation or sustainability policy, reflecting MCF’s commitment to sector-wide awareness of climate action.
• Assist in drafting policy briefings, consultation responses, evidence submissions, and research summaries.
• Support the Head of Policy & Advocacy in compiling data and insights for reports, position statements and strategic documents. • Conduct desk-based research on thematic issues affecting Muslim-led and minority-led organisations.
• Monitor media commentary relevant to the British Muslim-led Voluntary and Community Sector and contribute to the preparation of responses, in collaboration with the Policy and Communications teams.
2. Advocacy and Influencing Support
• Support engagement with government stakeholders by preparing meeting briefs, background notes, and follow-up materials.
• Help coordinate MCF’s involvement in roundtables, APPG sessions, consultations, and external events.
• Maintain databases of stakeholders including parliamentarians, policymakers, think tanks, regulators and sector partners. • Support public affairs monitoring, including parliamentary questions, debates and committee activity.
• Contribute to MCF’s work on climate action awareness and sustainability by supporting advocacy messaging, stakeholder engagement or policy monitoring relating to sustainable practice across the Muslim charity sector.
3. Engagement with Members and Sector Stakeholders
• Assist in organising policy workshops, training sessions, and capacity-building resources for MCF’s members.
• Help collect insights, feedback and lived experience from member organisations to inform MCF’s policy positions.
• Respond to member enquiries relating to policy, regulation or advocacy support.
• Contribute to resources that help Muslim-led charities navigate regulatory and structural barriers.
• Support member-facing materials and capacity-building related to sustainability, climate awareness, or environmental good practice where required. 4. Communications and Content Support
• Draft accessible summaries of policy developments for newsletters, blogs, briefings or social media (in collaboration with the Communications team).
• Ensure policy messages are communicated consistently and clearly to internal and external audiences.
• Help prepare slides, visuals or short reports for senior-level advocacy engagements.
• Work with the Communications team to cntribute to external messaging that aligns with MCF’s media monitoring, research findings and sector commentary.
5. Administration, Coordination and Reporting
• Provide administrative support for the policy and advocacy workstream, including scheduling, minutes, organisation of meetings and events. • Maintain systems for tracking policy work, research outputs and stakeholder engagement.
• Assist with monitoring, evaluation and reporting on the impact of policy activities.
• Ensure compliance with internal processes and external regulatory requirements (e.g., lobbying regulations).
Person Specification
Essential
• Experience (including internships or volunteering) in policy, research, public affairs, community advocacy or a related area.
• Strong understanding of UK political, charity or social policy landscapes.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to summarise complex information clearly.
• Strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to interpret data and produce evidence-informed insights.
• Good organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Commitment to social justice, equity and strengthening underrepresented communities.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a small, fast-paced team.
• Sensitivity to issues affecting Muslim-led, minority-led or faith-based civil society.
• Awareness of key issues, legislation or trends relating to climate change or sustainability affecting civil society.
• Interest in media monitoring, public messaging or analysing public commentary related to the sector.
Desirable
• Experience working or volunteering within the voluntary sector, community organisations, or advocacy projects.
• Understanding of intersectionality and structural inequalities affecting minority and marginalised communities.
• Experience producing policy briefs, research notes or advocacy materials.
• Familiarity with parliamentary processes or government engagement.
• Lived experience relevant to the communities MCF represents.
Values and Behaviours
• Collaborative, inclusive and respectful approach to diverse stakeholders. Proactive, organised and self-motivated, with willingness to learn.
• Integrity and professionalism when representing MCF.
• Commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.
• Ability to amplify underrepresented voices with care and accuracy.
What We Offer
• Opportunity to develop skills in policy, research, advocacy and stakeholder engagement.
• Mentorship and learning from experienced senior leaders.
• A supportive and inclusive working environment.
• Chance to contribute to meaningful, systemic change within the UK’s Muslim led charity sector.
Application Information
If you are a change maker who wishes to help us empower the sector, please send your CV and a covering letter outlining your suitability for the role. We reserve the right to withdraw this role once a suitable candidate is identified.
If you have not heard from us concerning your application within 6 weeks, please assume your application has been unsuccessful.
Interviews: Initial online short interview (stage 1), face-to-face in-office interview (stage 2).
No agencies.
UK residents only. Sponsorship is not possible for this post. References will be taken up prior to appointment including relevant ID checks.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
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!
The Head of Policy and Advocacy will lead the strategic development and delivery of MCF’s policy, advocacy and research agenda.Join the UK’s leading network for Muslim-led charities, strengthening the capacity, voice and impact of nearly 300 organisations.
Job role: Head of Policy and Advocacy
Employer: Muslim Charities Forum
Salary:£42,000 – 45,000 per annum
Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week (4 days office-based, 1 day hybrid/remote)
Position: Fixed Term Contract, 3 years.
Location: London SE1.Nearest stations Waterloo, Lambeth North
Closing date for applications:16th December 2025, 5.00pm or until a suitable candidate is identified.
About Muslim Charities Forum (MCF)
Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) is the UK’s leading network for Muslim-led charities, strengthening the capacity, voice and impact of nearly 300 organisations. Guided by our pillars of Support, Connect and Represent, we champion excellence, transparency and social justice through resources, capacity-building, research and advocacy.
We work to tackle structural and funding barriers, influence government, policymakers and the wider sector, and build a more sustainable, equitable Muslim-led charitable landscape. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, we drive systemic change and amplify the contributions of Muslim-led organisations across society.
Role Purpose
The Head of Policy and Advocacy will lead the strategic development and delivery of MCF’s policy, advocacy and research agenda. The role involves shaping long-term strategy, building a robust evidence base, influencing government and policymakers, and representing MCF at senior levels across the charity, public and political sectors.
The postholder will engage proactively with central and local government, devolved authorities, and regional mayors, ensuring that the voices and experiences of Muslim-led organisations are represented in policy development and decision-making.
They will work collaboratively with MCF’s Communications, Partnerships, and Systemic Change and Sector Capacity teams to ensure a coordinated and strategic approach that delivers sustainable, long-term impact.
Key Responsibilities
1. Strategy and Leadership
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Develop and deliver the next three-year Policy and Advocacy Strategy aligned with MCF’s organisational objectives.
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Provide strategic advice to the CEO, Senior Leadership Team, and Board on policy opportunities and risks.
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Lead and develop the Policy and Advocacy team, fostering a high-performing, inclusive and collaborative culture.
2. Policy, Research and Insight
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Monitor and analyse UK policy and regulatory developments affecting Muslim-led civil society.
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Oversee research, consultations and data-driven insight to inform MCF’s policy positions.
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Produce high-quality policy outputs, including reports, consultation responses and position statements.
3. Influencing and Stakeholder Engagement
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Lead MCF’s engagement with central government, local authorities, devolved administrations and regional mayors, as well as regulators and sector networks.
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Build and maintain strategic relationships with ministers, parliamentarians, senior officials, think tanks and sector leaders.
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Coordinate MCF’s public affairs activity, including roundtables, Select Committee and APPG engagement, and representation at high-level external forums.
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Strengthen MCF’s profile as a credible and influential voice for Muslim-led civil society across all tiers of government and the voluntary sector.
4. Sector Capacity and Member Support
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Engage MCF’s members and Muslim-led organisations in collective policy development and advocacy.
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Design and deliver tools, training and resources to build members’ influencing capacity.
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Identify and advocate for structural solutions to sector-wide challenges, including funding inequality, regulatory barriers and intersectional disadvantage.
5. Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting
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Develop and implement frameworks to assess the effectiveness and impact of MCF’s policy and advocacy work.
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Provide regular progress reports to the CEO.
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Ensure compliance with charity law, lobbying and regulatory requirements.
Person Specification
Essential Criteria
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Significant experience (5+ years) in senior policy, advocacy or influencing roles within the UK charity or voluntary sector.
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Demonstrable success influencing government at national, local or devolved levels, achieving measurable policy or funding change.
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Strong understanding of the UK charity policy, funding and regulatory environment.
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Knowledge of the UK Muslim-led and/or faith-based civil society landscape.
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Experience amplifying marginalised voices and embedding lived experience into policy and advocacy work.
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Proven ability to lead teams and deliver organisational strategy.
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Excellent analytical, written and verbal communication skills, with strong political acumen.
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Commitment to social justice, equity and strengthening Muslim-led civil society.
Desirable Criteria
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Experience working with Muslim-led, faith-based or minority-led organisations.
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Understanding of intersectionality and its impact on underrepresented communities.
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Experience of research collaboration with academic institutions or think tanks.
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Proven track record in building partnerships for policy or advocacy initiatives.
Values and Behaviours
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Strategic and forward-thinking leadership.
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Collaborative and inclusive approach to diverse stakeholders.
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Resilience and adaptability in complex, fast-changing environments.
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Integrity and credibility in representing MCF and the wider sector.
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Strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.
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Excellent communication skills, particularly in amplifying underrepresented voices.
Additional Information
This is a senior leadership position. Occasional evening or parliamentary activities may be required, along with UK-wide travel.
What We Offer
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The opportunity to lead impactful change within one of the UK’s most dynamic faith-based networks.
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A collaborative, inclusive, and supportive working environment.
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Opportunities for professional growth, leadership, and innovation.
Application Information
To apply, please send a CV (no more than 2 pages) and a covering letter (max 1,000 words) explaining how you meet the essential criteria and your motivation and suitability for the post.
We are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are particularly keen to hear from candidates with lived experience of marginalisation and an understanding of Islamic ethos.
We reserve the right to withdraw this role once a suitable candidate is identified.
If you have not heard from us concerning your application within 6 weeks, please assume your application has been unsuccessful.
Interviews: Initial online short interview (stage 1), face-to-face in-office interview (stage 2).
No agencies.
UK residents only.Sponsorship is not possible for this post. References will be taken up prior to appointment including relevant ID checks.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
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
Registered Charity
6 - 10
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.
Thank you!
Key Responsibilities
To work closely with the Evidence & Advocacy Manager (EAM) to develop and implement a series of impactful evidence and research projects that support our advocacy messaging, as well as internal and external learning for inclusive programmes and advisory work. These projects will build on established workstreams alongside developing new ones to maintain and extend CBM UK’s evidence base.
Disability Evidence, Policy Research and Learning
With EAM support the ongoing CBM UK Research and Evidence workstream, through:
- Translating evidence from our programming countries and projects to produce and contribute to a range of resources to influence FCDO and other stakeholders. Tasks to include managing and maintaining established outputs, such as the CBM UK Project Evidence Briefs and Disability Voices paper series, generating new thematic papers, as well as policy and position papers to enhance effective advocacy submissions, briefing notes, blogs and other messaging on key disability rights issues.
- Working collaboratively within CBM UK and across CBM Global to help develop and to deliver new policy research, drawing on mixed methods and data sources including national and international databases, using qualitative approaches including participatory or citizen generated data, and new empirical work.
- Supporting Programme staff to improve impact and learning practice in CBM UK funded projects, provide technical support for the implementation of programme related research and data collection, including MEAL.
- Providing technical research support into the development of proposals for new grant funded projects, and, where successful, support the management of subsequent research projects.
- Keeping abreast of new research and publications on key themes and priority concerns within the CBM UK Advocacy and Influencing Strategy, taking into consideration sector trends and developments, and ensure this is disseminated to relevant staff within the CBM UK Team.
- Keeping watch on UK policy environment and conducting research and analysis to support CBM UK advocacy messaging on disability and human rights.
Dissemination and Communications
- Maintaining and developing internal knowledge management systems for research and information on disability inclusion and rights, and related areas, to be used by Advocacy, Programmes and Fundraising & Communications teams.
- Ensuring communication plans are developed with CBM UK and Global Federation colleagues for CBM UK evidence outputs.
- Maintaining the Advocacy and Influencing pages of the CBM UK website ensuring rights-based communication and focus to support CBM UK and Global campaigns.
- Liaison with Fundraising & Communications colleagues to amplify media stories, case studies and compelling evidence from country programming for advocacy purposes.
- Participation in and building good relationships with UK-based disability and development networks, including relevant research networks and membership of the BOND Disability and Development Group.
- Supporting the professional publication and printing of CBM UK outputs, for dissemination at advocacy engagements and public events.
Other
- Work with other CBM UK teams to maximise cross fertilisation opportunities and integrated working.
- Help develop a culture of enthusiasm and success, reflecting the ambitions of CBM. Play an active role across CBM, promoting positive working and innovation. Ensure that the values of CBM UK are understood by external partners and always reflected in communications.
- Identify opportunities to initiate and contribute to new initiatives and events, both within CBM UK and externally.
- Provide briefings and analysis for the CEO and other Leadership Team members where appropriate.
- Carry out any other duties as required by the Evidence & Advocacy Manager, Director of Advocacy, and CEO.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
The internships positions are for a 6-Month basis starting between either January - July or July - December.
This is a unique opportunity to contribute and gain insight into L&W’s high-impact research, policy, and campaigning activity across all areas of our Strategic Plan. You will be responsible for participating in our programme of research, as well as proactively supporting other colleagues across the organisation.
Duties and Responsibilities
Your principal duties and responsibilities will be to contribute to L&W’s research programme across a range of high-profile and time-critical projects for government, trusts and foundations and other funders. Suitable candidates should demonstrate a commitment to equality and diversity throughout the conduct of their duties.
Assist the L&W research team with qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis. This may involve review and analysis of national and local data sources, recruitment for qualitative research, conducting depth interviews and focus groups with service users, staff and other stakeholders, and managing and analysing data.
- Carry out literature and evidence reviews, including identifying relevant research evidence, appraising the quality of evidence and writing up key findings.
- Support income generation, in collaboration with other Learning and Work staff, including contributing to the preparation of research proposals.
- Work as part of research project teams and actively participate in project meetings.
- Assist in other tasks to support the work of the research team as required. This will involve some research administration.
- Proof-reading reports, events programmes and marketing material for clarity and accuracy to ensure they meet our high quality standards.
- Demonstrate a commitment to equality of opportunity.
About You
Essential
- Degree in a relevant subject (e.g. social sciences, economics, research methods, etc) or equivalent qualifications or experience in a research capacity.
- Experience of writing for external publication e.g. websites, reports, newsletters.
- Experience of undertaking qualitative and/or quantitative data collection and analysis
- Accuracy and attention to detail, and ability to show initiative and work independently.
- Excellent understanding of Microsoft Office suite (in particular, Word, Excel and PowerPoint)
- Ability to work to deadline and manage multiple, competing priorities.
- Experience of working with vulnerable groups
- A commitment to the values of Learning and Work Institute
Desirable
- Understanding of a range of research and evaluation methodologies and methods.
- Understanding and interest in a subject area of relevance to L&W: adult learning, skills and employment policy and/or practice.
- Experience of working with vulnerable groups
Benefits
-Salary of £25,878 Leicester or £28,475 London pro rata per annum (Living Wage)
- 27 days' holiday, of which 3 are shutdown days in addition to public holidays. This will be prorated based on length of contract.
- Generous company pension scheme with 8% employer contribution
- Group Life Assurance 3*salary
- Hybrid working (with 40%-60% of your time in the office)
- Flexible working practices
- Employee Development Scheme
- Retailer Discounts
- Enhanced occupational maternity, adoption, paternity and shared parental pay
- Enhanced occupational sick pay
- Eye care scheme and flu jab reimbursement benefit
- Employee Assistance & Wellbeing Programme
- Gold award in Investors in People
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
This is an exciting role leading our committed policy team leading the fight to end child poverty in the UK. The development and implementation of a UK-wide cross-government child poverty strategy means this is a great time to join CPAG as we look to influence policy makers to adopt our evidence-based policy solutions to child poverty.
We are looking for someone to take a lead role in developing evidence-based policy positions to support CPAG’s influencing and campaigns work. You will have knowledge of political processes and how external organisations can effect change. You will have a track record of producing high quality research and analysis, including policy briefings, on social policy issues. You will have experience of managing a small team and working collaboratively to identify policy issues and develop solutions with colleagues across the organisation, as well as externally.
The postholder will be working in a fast moving, high profile and complex policy environment and will need to balance short term priorities with long term objectives. Current priorities include influencing the implementation of the forthcoming child poverty strategy, gathering and sharing analysis and expertise with the DWP as part of their review of universal credit, and monitoring the development of forthcoming changes to disability benefits.
We welcome applications from individuals with the skills and experience outlined and we can be flexible about working arrangements. We operate a hybrid working system and would be happy to discuss any flexibilities required. CPAG is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion which you can read more about in the job pack.
We welcome applications on a secondment basis.
For more information about this post and to apply download the Head of Policy job pack.
If you have questions or need specific arrangements or reasonable adjustments to take part in the selection process, please contact us.
Closing date for applications: Sunday 4th January 2026 (midnight)
Interviews will take place: Tuesday 13th January 2026
Registered Charity
51 - 100
Child Poverty Action Group works to prevent and end child poverty – for good.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.