Policy research jobs

Policy and Public Affairs Manager (England)

Reporting to: Head of Policy and Public Affairs

Line Management: 1 Policy and Public Affairs Officer England

Location of work: Remote but role holder will ideally be London-based to be able to frequently commute for meetings/ events at Westminster. The role may involve also some infrequent travel across the UK.

Contract type: Full-time, 35 hours per week, although flexible/ compressed hours will be considered. The role will require occasional evening and weekend work.

Contract Length: Permanent

Salary: £42,000

BACKGROUND

Magic Breakfast is the UK’s leading school breakfast charity and makes a difference to over 350,000 children and young people every day by offering breakfasts and expert advice to tackle child morning hunger in schools across England and Scotland.

This is an exciting time for Magic Breakfast as the benefits of school breakfast provision are increasingly recognised by policymakers, educators and the public. The Policy and Public Affairs (PPA) Team is central to this work. And through our new organisational strategy, Nourishing Futures, the work of the PPA Team is growing to meet our advocacy ambition to expand school breakfast provision and deliver our vision which would see every child in the UK nourished, empowered and thriving.

JOB PURPOSE

The role of the Policy and Public Affairs Manager is a high-impact role, central to designing and delivering Magic Breakfast’s national policy and public affairs strategy in England. The role holder will lead the development of evidence-based policy positions and work collaboratively to drive forward strategic, integrated and impactful advocacy campaigns to successfully influence decision-makers, policy change, and funding frameworks aligned with our key objectives. Specifically, you will also lead the design and implementation of our new workstream to expand school breakfast provision to secondary schools and early years settings, alongside our work to ensure the effective implementation of the Free Breakfast Club Programme.

More broadly, you will keep abreast of political developments relevant to Magic Breakfast - proactively identifying opportunities to respond, influence and shape the debate across the school food system and provide strategic, analytical and timely advice to the Senior Leadership Team.

Using your excellent communication skills, you will be able to translate complex policy into tailored and effective communications, policy briefings, positions and submissions, and will play a lead role in confidently engaging external stakeholders including UK Government Ministers, Parliamentarians, special advisers, officials and sector partners.

We are looking for someone who enjoys collaboration, who shares our passion for driving systematic change, and who can use their experience to navigate, respond to, and influence the fast-moving political environment to deliver lasting and meaningful change. You’ll be part of a collaborative and ambitious organisation, working at the intersection of policy, practice and impact – putting children and young people at the heart of everything we do and helping to ensure every child starts their day nourished, empowered and ready to thrive.

KEY RESPONSOBILITIES

• Lead the policy development process in consultation with cross-organisational teams and external organisations to develop clear, evidence-based policy recommendations and positions.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with UK Government Ministers, Parliamentarians, Special Advisers, officials and sector organisations, including conducting stakeholder mapping and power analysis to identify key routes to influence.

• Design, lead and implement integrated advocacy campaigns to deliver maximum impact in collaboration with cross-organisational teams.

• Work closely with colleagues to share expertise and intelligence, inform and shape research areas, support campaign activities aligned with advocacy objectives, and respond proactively to live developments across the organisation.

• Line manage and support the development of the Public Affairs Officer.

• Strong ability to translate complex policy into clear, persuasive communications tailored to specific audiences to deliver maximum impact.

Please read the full job description attached below. 

WHAT WE OFFER

At Magic Breakfast we value our employees and work hard to develop offer a supportive, respectful culture which enables everyone to thrive.

Please see our job pack below

Please see our website

APPLICATION PROCCESS

Should you wish to discuss the role before applying please email our People and Culture Team, HR @ magicbreakfast .com

Shortlisting: w/c 25th and 26th May

Interview 1: w/c 1st and 2nd June

Interview 2: w/c 8th and 11th June

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of applications are received. This is to ensure that we can manage application levels whilst maintaining a positive candidate experience. Unfortunately, once a vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications.

Caritas Social Action Network

Policy and Public Affairs Officer (maternity leave)

Location: office in London, with mostly working from home, regular travel in England and Wales, and rare travel overseas.

Contract: full-time, to cover a team member’s maternity leave

Salary: £30,00

Closing date: Tuesday 26 May at 12 noon

Interview date: Thursday 11 June in person, in London

CSAN is the official agency of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference tackling the root causes of poverty and injustice affecting people who live in England and Wales. We’re facing a steep rise in poverty and significant pressures on social, economic and church resources. Currently, the Church is called to raise a prophetic voice against poverty and the rhetoric of division and work for the building of a more just society.

Over the last 20 years, CSAN has built up a network of 50 diocesan and direct service charities with a combined annual spend on social mission estimated at £400m, excluding the work of schools and religious congregations. Our members build up local community life in diverse ways, and many of them support individuals in difficulty, including with housing, prison and detention, social isolation, ill-health, violence, disability, employment, care, therapeutic and welfare support.

The key responsibilities of the post are:

1. To scan the social policy environment to capture developments in legislation, consultation papers and Bills relevant to the Caritas network for the purpose of comprehensive tracking and briefing.

2. To deliver an effective programme of Catholic advocacy and political campaigns that contributes to the common good, with particular attention to the priorities of the dignity of workers, child poverty, social care and end of life; supporting and connecting well with the team’s other activities, and where possible with the CSAN membership’s priorities,

3. To draft campaign and advocacy materials for the range of media channels used by CSAN and support the CEO in engaging with the press and approaches from campaigning organisations including contributing to CSAN’s social media networks.

4. To provide admin support and contribute to CSAN’s Alliances as required, especially the Advocacy Alliance and the Criminal Justice Alliance with information and education on policy and legislation.

5. To ensure that our advocacy is consistent with the Bishops’ understanding of the Church’s role in society and supports the priorities of the Bishops’ Conference, especially the Department for Social Justice.

6. To act as a conduit of information and communication between the Bishops’ Conference and the CSAN members, under the guidance of the CEO, assisting CBCEW where possible in gathering information and the lived experience of poverty.

7. To develop and contribute to practice materials for the network, especially in the areas of campaigning, advocacy, social policy and formation for mission.

8. To oversee monitoring of the Catholic press and relevant wider networks for relevant articles, developments and campaigns.

9. To support the general work of CSAN as required by the CEO, including leading in the development and organisation of the charity in specific areas subject to skills and experience.

The work of the small national team requires a high level of integrity and teamwork, respect for and capacity to navigate complex civil and church contexts at pace, and a stable commitment to personal formation and training. Our Policy and Public Affairs Officer (maternity leave) will bring a professional track record of relevant research and analysis, production of compelling communications, and diligent administration. A satisfactory basic DBS check and references are required.

CSAN is a member of Caritas Internationalis, one of the largest humanitarian networks in the world, with national agencies in over 160 countries, and among the most successful examples of organised Catholic social action in modern times.

We are recruiting a fixed-term Policy Campaigns Manager to lead our campaigns function at ARUK. The Policy Campaigns Manager will report to the Senior Public Affairs and Campaigns Manager and have line management responsibilities for the Policy Campaigns Officer.

In this role you will be joining a friendly and fast-moving Policy and Public Affairs team, during an exciting year for dementia research as we campaign on our core mission for a cure. You will work closely with colleagues across the organisation to oversee our active campaigns and identify opportunities to mobilise our supporters and drive influence and impact for and with people affected by dementia.

You will lead the development of the campaigns function for ARUK, building on existing initiatives, championing best practice in campaigns and building our reach and engagement. You will also be responsible for working across a range of functions including our policy, research, communications, digital, brand and volunteering teams.

This is a 12 month FTC or on return of the substantive postholder

Key Responsibilities:

Deliver our live campaigns and marshal our campaigner base to advocate for change in dementia research and for people affected by dementia

· Work with colleagues across research, policy and public affairs teams to develop and deliver our campaigns that mobilise people affected by dementia and our supporters to influence decision makers and change policy and practice

· Work with the policy managers to ensure that our campaigns align with our strategic priorities and theories of change

· Work closely with public affairs colleagues to plan campaign actions that align with key political influencing moments e.g. Budget; Spending Review; King’s speech; General Elections

Develop and deliver our campaign communications to grow the reach, influence and impact of our campaigns

· Lead the development and growth of our campaigner network, building supporter journeys, and producing compelling and creative campaigner communications across email, social media and other channels

· Work with colleagues across CRM and digital to improve data management, delivering regular reporting on campaign actions and use this data to enhance the campaigner experience and empower more people to take action. ​

· Work with colleagues across the organisation to build campaigning expertise and experience with local ARUK supporters and improve our reach with MPs in their constituencies

Line Manage our Policy Campaigns Officer

· Oversee the work of the policy campaigns officer including setting objectives and providing support to a range of workstreams.

· Consider the learning and development needs of the policy campaigns officer and ensure that they are able to grow and develop in their role. 

Involve people affected by dementia in campaigns development and delivery

· Identify campaign champions and storytellers with lived experience who can advocate for change

· Provide training and ongoing support to people with lived experience to empower them to take part in and shape our campaigns

Research, insight and continuous improvement

· Provide expert advice across the charity on campaigning, taking an open, flexible and innovative approach

· Develop mechanisms to keep abreast of best practice in campaigns and any legal or regulatory issues specifically around mental capacity and consent, data protection and lobbying etc

· Continue a campaigning culture across the organisation by being an ambassador for the benefits of campaigning and working with colleagues to showcase the opportunities and impact of our work.

Knowledge, skills and experience needed:

· Educated to A Level or equivalent 

· Experience of delivering successful national campaigns 

· Experience of building fruitful relationships with colleagues across organisations 

· Experience of developing impactful campaign strategies with clear policy rationale and creative tactics 

· Experience of writing compelling campaign communications 

· Experience of working with campaigners 

· Experience using CRM databases such as Raiser’s Edge and Salesforce and handling sensitive personal data 

· Line Management experience 

· Leadership experience at a management level 

· Experience of matrix working, across professional and operational boundaries 

Additional Information:

Ways of working:

As part of our Agile ways of working you will be required to work approximately 2 days a week from the office, which is subject to the requirements of the role and the business needs. Flexibility on where you work can be split between working from home and our office.

Roles that are classed as part of the Agile ways of working are not able to claim any costs for Mileage/Travel on Public Transport, Accommodation and/or Meals.  This includes when attending the office for various meetings/events.

Our Office: Our office is at 3 Riverside, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, CB21 6AD. 

Salary: Circa £44,000 per annum, plus benefits.

Please download the Vacancy Pack on our website for more information.

The closing date for applications is the 17th May 2026, with interviews being arranged once shortlisting has been completed. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date. We would encourage you to submit your application at the earliest opportunity, as on occasion we may have to bring forward the interview date and/or the closing date based on the needs of the business. Although a possibility, this will only happen in exceptional circumstances. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date.

We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential.  We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures, particularly from those in the global majority, those with disabilities, men and those from the LGBTQIA+ community. Any offer of employment is however subject to you having the right to work in the UK.

As part of our commitment to being an inclusive employer and ensuring fairness and consistency in our selection process, we will handle your CV and application with the utmost confidentiality. Should you require any adjustments at either the application or interview stage, please contact us via our website. 

How to apply: Please create an online account using our Online Recruitment Platform which can be accessed through our Job Vacancies page. You will be able to attach your CV to your application and track the status of your application.

About Alzheimer’s Research UK: Alzheimer's Research UK is the UK's leading dementia research charity. Our mission is to accelerate progress towards a cure.  Today 1 in 2 people will be impacted by dementia, either through caring for a loved one, developing it themselves or tragically both. But there is hope. 

Are you a strategic, purpose-driven leader? Ready to shape policy, influence public discourse, and make a real impact? If this sounds exciting, then this could be the role and organisation for you! Day One is on an exciting journey of growth and expansion as we increase our impact and reach more people affected by serious and life changing injury. We are looking to recruit an experienced Head of Policy and Public Affairs to join our team who can shape and help lead the charity’s external positioning, policy engagement and thought leadership activity across the UK. You will work closely with the CEO, other Directors and Heads of Service to develop and execute a three-year plan to develop our voice, influence and reach. 

This is an exciting opportunity for someone committed to supporting the charity in its next phase of growth. Day One has always punched above its weight as a start-up charity, and now, into its fifth year of operation as a national charity, our voice is becoming more important than ever. 

Day One’s development has been fast-paced, roles broad, and the culture has fostered autonomy and flexibility in senior roles. As the needs of the organisation evolve, this remains important but it is also now essential that we build a team with the capability and capacity to carry out robust, longer term scoping and planning in order to implement our new strategy and to create further opportunity for influence around the impact, care and support needs of people affected by serious and life-changing injury. 

More About You 

You’ll be an ambitious, dynamic, politically astute changemaker with: 

Senior experience in public affairs, policy, or government relations. A strong record of delivering successful, outcome-driven campaigns. Excellent communication skills with a flair for impactful messaging. A collaborative, tenacious attitude and drive to make a difference. An established network and the credibility to influence. Willingness to travel as part of your role. 

What You Will Bring 

You might come from a charity, public sector or values-led organisation, or from a commercial role where people and purpose have been at the heart of your work. You may already have experience marketing services, campaigns or causes, or be ready for a step up with more ownership and responsibility. What matters most is your ability to work with empathy, bring ideas to life, and help people find, trust and access support when they need it most.

In your first six months, you will develop key relationships, scope the workplan and, in conjunction with colleagues, begin to build the evidence base needed for delivery of the ‘Voice’ element of our new strategy. 

You will use our flagship annual campaign - Major Trauma Awareness week (MTAW) as a platform for expansion of our voice and influence work. You will work closely with the Head of Lived Experienced and Social Research to ensure that we are able to develop a sound evidence base from which to grow our influence and reach. 

Beyond the first 6 months you will: 

• Design and begin to implement an impactful influencing plan, identifying horizon scanning opportunities to influence and raise our profile. 

• Utilise own assets and organisational assets, including the CEO, SLT and Heads of Service, to deliver this element of the new strategy. 

• You will build highly credible and impactful relationships with a variety of stakeholders. This will include policy makers in national and local government officials, politicians, the health and social care sector, clinicians specifically the trauma care and rehabilitation space, as well as other third sector organisations, think tanks and commercial organisations connected to recovery after serious and life-changing injury.

• Play a significant role internally and externally in communicating the organisation’s policy position, raising organisational brand.

• Work closely with others in the SLT and ELT on developing our thought leadership and translating this into published blogs and comment pieces yourself and for others - disseminating our shared ideas, evidence base and compelling stories of impact and recovery.

• Working closely with the Director of Income and Engagement, you will support their team’s expertise and credibility, helping them to generate income though speaking engagements, campaigns and key storytelling pieces. 

How to apply 

Please upload your CV and supporting cover letter to Charity Jobs outlining why you’re interested in the role. Please take your time to explain how your experience is relevant to this post.

For more information, please refer to the attached recruitment pack.

Closing date: 15th May 2026 

Interviews:  

First stage virtual: w/c 25th May 2026 

Second stage in-person (Leeds): w/c 1st June 2026 

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. 

This is an exciting opportunity to work on the frontline of policy advocacy and development in child health. As Head of Policy and Research you'll be responsible for overseeing the development of our policy positions and all related outputs, as well as the research that underpins our campaigns and advocacy, across England, Scotland and abroad. You will be an integral thought partner to the Director of Strategy & Delivery and wider leadership team on the development of pioneering research concepts that will drive the child health agenda forward. You will be our internal technical expert on food policy, ensuring all of our work is evidence-based and impactful, as well as being our external representative, liaising with leading policy and research experts across academia, civil society, and government agencies. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

Research

• Work with the Director of Strategy & Delivery and Research Manager to plan research projects and support their delivery, ensuring they support policy calls and reflect young peoples’ experiences.

• Lead the translation of  Bite Back’s research into high quality outputs including reports, briefings and submissions.

• Work with campaigns, communications and content teams to turn research findings into high impact creative communications for a range of audiences.

• Serve as a primary spokesperson for our research including in media placements, speaking slots and government evidence sessions. 

Policy development

• Lead on the development of Bite Back’s policy positions in key and emerging areas, ensuring young peoples’ views and experiences are fed in at every stage.

• Lead the development of all policy outputs including submissions, consultation responses and briefings, ensuring they are evidence-based and reflect young peoples’ voices. 

• Lead the technical policy liaison with stakeholders and experts in the field to gather evidence and critically assess the Bite Back’s positions. 

Evidence

• Keep abreast of new evidence on key areas relating to nutrition, climate and health and consider the implications for Bite Back’s policy and relevant activity.

• Collaborate internally to provide knowledge and advice on policy and evidence issues with colleagues and the youth board.

• Review and sign off key outputs to ensure they reflect the latest evidence and data.

Stakeholder engagement

• Build and maintain relationships with a range of external stakeholders to support Bite Back’s influencing agenda, including with senior government policymakers, academia, WHO and other charities in England, Scotland, and abroad.

• Represent Bite Back on a range of alliances, coalitions and partnerships.

• Deputise for the Director of Strategy & Delivery when needed.

Leadership

• Line management of Research Manager and Impact & Evaluation manager, with a dotted line to the Policy & Engagement Executive and Senior Programmes & Policy Manager for Scotland.

• Operate as a member of the extended leadership team, collaborating with other Heads and the Directors to ensure research and policy considerations are embedded seamlessly into campaigns, communications and programmes.

• Lead the policy and research strategy development for Bite Back in new geographies, providing visionary technical leadership in how we expand to new countries across the UK and abroad.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

We will be looking for applications that demonstrate experience in at least some of these areas, and evidence of capacity to build skills in others. Please don’t be put off applying for one of our jobs because you can’t demonstrate every skill. If you're passionate and excited about working for us, and possess the main skills and experience we are looking for, go ahead and apply. You could be just what we are looking for!

Required: 

• Significant experience  of managing food policy work, which has informed and influenced national and local food policy in England. 

• In depth knowledge of the breadth of the food, nutrition and obesity public health landscape and the key challenges faced in the policy environment.

• Deep technical expertise in food policy research, development, and communication - with a strong focus on commercial determinants of health.

• Strong analytical skills, including a good understanding of quantitative and qualitative research methods, including creative implementation research techniques. and experience with commissioning external research.

• Ability to synthesise and utilise evidence to support policy development and influencing. 

• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, including ability to communicate complex issues.

• Calmness under pressure, with ability to prioritise multiple projects to agreed objectives and deadlines. 

• Line management experience.

• A passion for our mission and a commitment to our values: Fresh, Resilient, Respectful, Energetic, Real.

Desired: 

• Strong policy and research networks in the UK across academic, civil society, and government agencies. A trusted technical voice.

• Post graduate experience in public health or nutrition and/or evidence of continuing professional development of relevant knowledge and skills in the field. 

• Experience in working with young people.

• Experience with designing creative, outside the box research with fresh ways of influencing food policy change.

• Understanding and some experiencing working on food policy across devolved nations (Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland), and within other global contexts.

The purpose of the role is to support the Bishops of Hereford, Southwell and Nottingham, and Coventry in their duties as Members of the House of Lords. The work includes research and information gathering, drafting speeches and questions, managing meetings, appointments and other events on behalf of the Bishops and such other work as they and the Head of Parliamentary Affairs may require from time to time.

The Parliamentary and Policy Researcher's priorities and tasks will be determined by the Bishops, with whom the postholder will be expected to have frequent direct contact along with their key advisers. In conjunction with their offices, the Head of Parliamentary Affairs will manage, guide and oversee the parliamentary work of the postholder.

The Parliamentary and Policy Researcher will be based with the Parliamentary Team. This is located at Lambeth Palace, London , SE1 7JU (within the Church of England's wider Faith and Public Life Team), and at Church House, Westminster, SW1P 3AZ. Some flexibility, including home working, is possible, though there is an expectation that the postholder be available to attend Westminster.

40% of the postholder's working time will be spent in support of the Bishop of Hereford, 40% in support of the Bishop of Southwell and Nottingham, and 20% in support of the Bishop of Coventry. Flexibility in the working pattern will be required, depending on the respective requirements of each, their commitments in the House of Lords, including duty weeks.

The work of the Bishops in the House of Lords is guided by their policy and local interests, as well as their status as religious leaders with a national profile. Both the Bishop of Hereford and the Bishop of Southwell and Nottingham have a shared concern for issues affecting rural communities.
Policy interests:
- Bishop of Hereford: Rural Affairs & Agriculture, Science & Technology. He chairs the Rural Bishops' Group and the Remuneration and Conditions sub-committee of the Archbishops' Council. He also serves as Clerk of the Closet to His Majesty the King (heading up the Ecclesiastical Household).
- Bishop of Southwell & Nottingham: Defence and the Military, Children (with a particular interest on children in care, Marriage & Families, Health and Social Care, Mental Health.
- Bishop of Coventry: Gender/Equalities, Reconciliation, Disability
As such the post may be well suited to someone who has particular experience of or interest in these areas of policy.

From time to time the postholder may also be called upon to add capacity to the Parliamentary Team by providing resource to other Lords Spiritual on policy areas they have become familiar with in their work for the Bishops of Hereford, Southwell & Nottingham, and Coventry.

The postholder will need to have access to the Parliamentary Estate, so will be required to apply for a security pass sponsored by one of the employing Bishops, and will be expected to abide by the rules and codes set by Parliament that accompany the issuing of a pass. The postholder will also have access to the facilities offered to Lambeth Palace and other NCI staff, observing the responsibilities and protocols which apply to all.

The balance between parliamentary tasks and those that relate to the Bishops' diocesan roles is likely to vary depending on the parliamentary cycle.

Interviews will be held on 18/05/2026 in London.

A core part of YoungMinds’ work is to ensure that young people have the power to influence government policy.

Your role will involve supporting YoungMinds’ public affairs work by promoting the charity’s policy priorities to parliamentarians, officials and other decision-makers.

This will involve writing briefings and developing relationships through meetings and ongoing engagement. You will also work with the youth engagement team to facilitate young people’s involvement in parliamentary meetings and other forums.

Your role will also involve developing policy positions in response to the issues affecting young people’s mental health, based on external evidence as well as YoungMinds’ own research and consultation with young people.

You will provide briefings to internal colleagues, including the senior leadership team, to ensure they are kept up-to-date on key policy issues and trends.

You will also work closely with media and campaign colleagues, to ensure that our messaging on policy issues is clear, accurate, and effective.

About the Institute of Alcohol Studies (IAS)

The Institute of Alcohol Studies (IAS) is an independent charity dedicated to reducing alcohol-related harm in the UK. We work to advance the use of the best available evidence in public policy, bridging the gap between research and decision-making on alcohol.

Alcohol harm is one of the most significant and preventable public health challenges facing the UK today. IAS works with parliamentarians, civil society organisations, researchers and the media to promote effective, evidence-based alcohol policy that improves health, reduces inequalities and supports communities.

Role summary

We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated Policy and Communications Support Officer to join our small but mighty team for a full-time, 12-month fixed-term contract.

This role offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience at the intersection of public health policy, communications and advocacy, working on one of the UK’s key social issues. The post holder will support IAS’s policy and communications work, helping us to progress our long-term vision for tackling alcohol harm.

The post-holder will report to the Head of External Affairs and will be mentored by the Assistant Manager, Policy and Communications, working closely with colleagues across the IAS team.

Contract details

• Contract: 12-month fixed-term contract, full-time (35 hours per week)
• Salary: £30,000
• Location: Hybrid working, split between the IAS office near London Bridge and home working
• Benefits:
  • 14.5% employer contribution pension scheme
  • 28 days’ annual leave (plus public holidays)
  • Life insurance and extended sick pay
  • Access to modern, charity co-working space
  • Opportunities for training and development

Key responsibilities

The Policy and Communications Support Officer will support a wide range of policy, parliamentary and communications activities, including:

• Policy and parliamentary support
  • Assisting with the drafting of clear, concise policy briefings and background notes
  • Updating and maintaining parliamentary monitoring databases to record IAS engagement with MPs and Peers
  • Supporting parliamentary and stakeholder engagement work as required
• Events and engagement
  • Supporting the organisation of IAS events, both in-person and virtual
  • Assisting with logistics such as booking rooms, managing attendee lists, preparing materials, and post-event follow-up
• Communications and media
  • Assisting with the development and production of IAS’s monthly newsletter and podcast, Alcohol Alert
  • Supporting the creation and scheduling of social media content and engaging with followers across platforms
  • Collating and circulating daily alcohol-related news, policy and research updates for key partners
• General support
  • Providing administrative and project support for the IAS team as needed
  • Working collaboratively with colleagues to support IAS’s wider aims and activities

About you

We are looking for an enthusiastic team player who is excited to work in a small organisation where everyone contributes and ideas are valued. You will be curious, motivated and committed to working on one of the most important public health and social justice issues facing the UK today.

Experience and skills we are looking for

• Undergraduate degree, equivalent professional qualification or experience in campaigning, political research or a related field
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to a variety of audiences
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office
• Ability to work independently and manage time while working unsupervised at home
• Good working knowledge of social media platforms
• An interest in politics, parliamentary processes and/or public health

• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
• A proactive, enthusiastic and collaborative approach to work

Equality and diversity

IAS is committed to being an inclusive and diverse organisation. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and particularly encourage applications from groups underrepresented in the public health and policy sector.

Interview process

First interviews for this role will be held online on 11 and 12 June, with a second in-person interview for successful candidates to take place at our offices on 16 June. Please confirm in your cover letter you can be available on these dates.

We hope to find someone who can join our team late July/early August.

About Us 

Yorkshire is one of the regions hardest hit by cancer. Together, we can change this.

Yorkshire Cancer Research is a charity dedicated to funding research so that you and those you love live longer healthier lives, free of cancer. 

Thanks to supporters, the charity funds vital cancer research and pioneers innovative new services for people with cancer. These life-giving medical breakthroughs are helping more people survive cancer – in Yorkshire, and beyond.

As an inclusive employer, our aim is to ensure our workforce reflects the rich diversity of our region. We believe a diverse workforce is vital to us taking action to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer more effectively in Yorkshire. We offer equal opportunities regardless of race, religion or belief, age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, marriage and civil partnerships. 

 
The Benefits 

We offer all employees a wide range of benefits including an enhanced contributory pension scheme, 25 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays (increasing to 30 days after 5 years’ service), flexible working arrangements, private medical insurance, enhanced maternity leave, career progression, learning and development, wellbeing initiatives, offices within walking distance of Hornbeam Park train station, free onsite parking and a whole lot more. 

We’ve got a strong set of values that inform everything we do and we’re looking for people who are aligned with these. As our Policy and Public Affairs Manager, you will put people in Yorkshire at the heart of everything you do, unite with colleagues and other organisations in this cause, and dare to think big and bold to make positive solutions happen. 

 
The Role 

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Policy and Public Affairs Manager to join our Research, Policy and Impact team. 

Supporting the Head of Cancer Insight, you will deliver, and keep under review the policy and public affairs strategy, including influencing at a local, regional, and national level, with the aim of helping the charity achieve its strategy and bringing benefit to the people of Yorkshire. You will have responsibility for the development of evidence-based policy reports and recommendations that can be used to influence a variety of audiences and project manage the development, delivery and evaluation of public affairs campaigns and events. As Policy and Public Affairs Manager, you will also act as a source of expertise across the organisation and externally on key policy areas and the wider policy environment.

Specifically, you will: 

Influencing 

• Support the further development, refinement and delivery of the charity’s policy and public affairsstrategy and impact evaluation process, to support the wider delivert of the charity’s strategic aims. 

• Oversee the development of insightful written materials and reports to aid influencing. 

• Lead the charity’s response to regional and national consultations relevant to cancer in Yorkshire, making a robust and evidence-based case for the charity’s position.

• Oversee the continued growth of the charity’s political monitoring work and ensure the effective pursuit of every opportunity offered. 

• Engage with regional and national decision makers to influence policy-making for the benefit of people in Yorkshire and beyond. 

• Build and strengthen relationships with key stakeholders across Yorkshire and beyond (such as DHSC, NHSE, Integrated Care Boards, Cancer Alliances, national policy groups, and other charities, to influence change based on policy recommendations.

• Evaluate the impact of policy and public affairs activity, with delivery of clear examples of external influencing.

Policy development 

• Ensure the continued development of the policy production and dissemination process, including the policy development pathway, internal/external dissemination and impact evaluation. 

• Lead the research, production and dissemination of high quality, evidence-based cancer-related policies and the strategic development of key policy recommendations. 

• Oversee regular updates of existing policies and position statements, ensuring they are in line with the latest evidence. 

• Ensure external insight is built into policies and policy development, such as gaining views from the Patient and Public Involvement Community, the inclusion of external patient and public contributors and endorsements from clinical and academic experts. 

• Oversee work with relevant internal teams to create key messages for a range of internal and external stakeholders, ensuring these are in line with the latest evidence and are used correctly, and provide expert commentary on media stories. 

• Act as a source of expertise on the charity’s cancer-related policies and position statements, both internally and externally. Undertake media interviews as required to communicate key messages with the public.

Campaigns and Events 

• Project manage the development, delivery and evaluation of public affairs campaigns, in collaboration with the Brand and Relationships team where relevant, manage relationships with third parties to support campaign delivery where required. 

• Lead the outreach and delivery of influencing events, including visits to charity-funded projects and party conference activity. 

• Further develop and deliver a strategy for growing and maintaining a handraiser supporter base, to enhance campaigns activity. 

 
About You 

To be considered for this role, you will need: 

• To have a degree, preferably in a relevant subject area, for example public policy, public health, scientific, medical etc. 

• To have significantl experience of writing influencing materials such as briefings, letters, blogs, campaign materials.

• To have substantial experience supporting the implementation of high impact public affairs strategies that are designed to influence.

• To have experience of evaluating campaigns and assessing the impact of policy and public affairs activities. 

• To have excellent public affairs experience including understanding of local, regional and national government, the current health policy landscape as well as knowledge of UK parliamentary processes along with a proven track-record of engaging politically to make change happen.

• To have substantial experience of developing evidence-based policies for a health focused organisation.

• To have substantial experience of communicating health policy positions to a variety of audiences including for influencing purposes.

• To have a good understanding of the health care system in England. 

• To be a strategic thinker with strong analytical, judgement and decision-making skills.

• To be able to sift out the essential elements from a mass of complex information, integrate and synthesise ideas, and present information to others in an accessible way.

• To have a pro-active and creative approach to policy work with an ability to identify and use external opportunities and a desire to succeed.

• To have excellent verbal, written communication and presentation skills with the ability to interpret complex information and communicate this to a range of audiences so it is clear and accessible.

• To have excellent organisational and time management skills with the ability to prioritise work, handle conflicting demands and meet tight deadlines with exceptional levels of accuracy maintained.

• To have strong management and leadership skills, with the ability to coach team members to encourage continued development and learning. 

• To have strong networking, influencing and relationship management skills, with the ability to inspire and influence others, as well as the confidence and personal authority to work with external organisations. 

Application 

Before applying, please visit our Careers Page to view the full role profile and find out more about working for Yorkshire Cancer Research.

To apply please submit a CV and cover letter outlining your suitability for the role to Claire Wooldridge, Head of People, before 14 May 2026. Please read our privacy notice before applying. 

Yorkshire Cancer Research is a responsible and flexible employer.We welcome any discussion for flexible working at the interview/offer stage where we will consider an individual’s circumstances against the needs of the charity. 

We positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates from all backgrounds. If we can make any reasonable adjustments to support your application please contact us. 

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

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

Research Programme Manager

Are you an experienced research professional looking to make a difference to children and young people’s lives?

Please note: this role is known internally as Research Lab Manager

Anna Freud are seeking a Research Lab Manager to join our world-leading mental health charity for children, young people and their families on a part-time basis.

Our mission is to close the gap in wellbeing and mental health by advancing, translating, delivering, and sharing the best science and practice with everyone who impacts the lives of children, young people and their families. More information about Anna Freud is available on our website.

Our EDI commitment

We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and being an equal opportunities employer, whereby equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) are core to our recruitment practices. All candidates who meet the job criteria will be considered for employment, regardless of ethnic origin, religion or belief, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age, socioeconomic background, caring responsibilities and care experience.

We ask candidates to share their diversity dimensions with us to help us identify, tackle and prevent bias across the employee lifecycle. We believe a diverse workforce enhances our ability to support mental health and wellbeing, allowing us to better meet the needs of the children, young people and families we serve.

As a Disability Confident employer, disabled candidates meeting our criteria are guaranteed an interview. Applications are submitted anonymously and assessed using a fair evaluation process based on the criteria set out in our job profiles.

What we offer

We offer a range of staff benefits, including an all-in-one rewards and recognition platform called Perkbox and wellbeing offers such as finishing early on Fridays and free counselling through our Employee Assistance Programme. We are proud to have staff-led Diversity Networks offering unique opportunities for learning, connection and impact.

This role offers the chance to work on high-impact mental health research, gain exposure to leading experts across Anna Freud and UCL, and take real ownership of projects from start to finish. You’ll build experience across a range of research methods, develop your profile through publications and funding work, and play a meaningful role in improving outcomes for children and young people.

What you’ll do

A central role supporting the delivery of a programme of mental health research, coordinating projects, managing operations, and ensuring studies are delivered to a high standard from set-up through to completion.

• Coordinate and manage multiple research projects, ensuring timelines, risks, and deliverables are effectively tracked and met
• Oversee research operations, including data management, documentation, and project governance
• Lead on funder reporting and support grant applications and wider research opportunities
• Liaise with key stakeholders, including funders, NHS services, local authorities, and research participants
• Support and supervise junior team members while contributing to high-quality research outputs

What you’ll bring

For the Reseach Lab Manager role, you will be an organised and proactive research professional, with strong experience managing complex projects and data, who can confidently coordinate studies, work with a range of stakeholders, and drive high-quality research delivery in a mental health setting.

• Proven experience managing and coordinating large-scale quantitative or mixed-methods research projects
• Strong data management and administrative skills, with attention to quality, accuracy, and compliance
• Experience contributing to research outputs, including funder reports, publications, or dissemination activities
• Ability to plan, prioritise, and manage multiple deadlines independently, using initiative to solve problems
• Effective communication skills and experience working with diverse stakeholders, including supporting or supervising junior team members

Key details

Hours: Part-time: 14 hours per week (two days). Usual working hours are Monday to Friday, 09:00-17:00. Specific days to be negotiated. Flexible working is possible.

Salary: £46,062 FTE per annum, plus 6% contributory pension scheme

Location: Hybrid (a mixture of home/onsite working): staff are working onsite for at least 20% of their working hours at our London site (4-8 Rodney Street, London N1 9JH). Attendance in-person for meetings, as and when required.

Contract type: Permanent

Next steps

Closing date for applications: midday (12pm), Friday, 08 May 2026. Please note that due to high application volumes, we may close this advert early. We encourage you to apply promptly and to keep an eye on our future vacancies for more opportunities.

Notification of interview: shortlisted applicants will be notified no later than Friday, 15 May 2026. During shortlisting, applicants are anonymously assessed using the criteria visible in the Job Profile. Please note: due to the high volume of applications received, we will not be able to provide feedback to unsuccessful applicants.

Interviews: will be held in Week commencing 18 May 2026.

How to apply: click on the 'apply now’ button to apply online. We are unable to accept CVs and kindly request no contact from agencies.

Questions?

Please get in contact with any job enquiries, or if you require assistance or experience difficulties when applying. Please note that successful candidate(s) will be asked to evidence their Right to Work in the UK post-job offer – we do not hold a sponsor license therefore we are unable to provide Visa sponsorship.

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.