Policy research jobs

Join an amazing charity that makes a difference for the 110,000 adults and children in the UK with a muscle-wasting condition. This is a role where you can really make a difference.

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation that reflects the communities we serve. We actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those from underrepresented groups including people from ethnic minority backgrounds, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those with lived experience of conditions we represent. We believe that diversity strengthens our work and helps us better support our beneficiaries.

This is an exciting time to join Muscular Dystrophy UK. We recently launched our new 10 year strategy to transform the lives of people living with muscle wasting conditions. Our vision is clear, a world without limits for people with 
muscle wasting conditions, and we won’t stop until we achieve it.

Main purpose of role:
This is a unique opportunity to lead Muscular Dystrophy UK’s policy work to improve access to treatment and shape life science policy for people living with muscle wasting conditions.

With exciting progress in treatment development but challenges with NHS system readiness, you’ll be at the forefront of efforts to ensure everyone in the UK can access the best available therapies—quickly and equitably. 

You’ll build strong relationships with governments, regulators, charities, and industry, lead our technology appraisal work, and grow our influence in life sciences policy, particularly around clinical trials and the implementation of the UK Life Sciences plan, drawing on Muscular Dystrophy UK’s rich history in medical research.

Working collaboratively across teams—including Policy and Campaigns, Research, Marketing and Communications, and our devolved nation leads in Services and Support—you’ll help deliver key strategic objectives. 

Reporting to the Director of Policy and Campaigns and working within a matrix structure with the Director of Research and Innovation, you’ll play a vital role in driving change and improving lives.

Benefits:

We appreciate the range of skills and experience our staff have to offer. In return for your enthusiasm and commitment we commit to actively developing and supporting you. We also offer a range of benefits including pension, life assurance, cycle scheme, health cash plan, financial wellbeing and an employee assistance programme.

Cover Letter Guidance for Applicants
When submitting your application, please ensure your cover letter provides clear evidence of the following:
• Experience in research, policy, public affairs, or a closely related field
• Proven ability to influence government, decision makers, or public policy — ideally within the health, life sciences, or disability sectors
• Strong understanding of NHS structures, regulatory frameworks, and health technology assessment (HTA) policies and processes
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly to diverse audiences
•  Robust research and analytical skills, including the ability to gather, interpret, and present information persuasively

Your cover letter should demonstrate how your background aligns with these criteria, using specific examples where possible

Location: Head Office, London, SE1 (with flexibility for homeworking with regular travel to Westminster)
Closing date: Sunday 23rd November 
Interview dates Monday 1st and Tuesday 2nd December 2025

Please download the job description to see full role responsibilities​

 Job Title: Research and Impact Lead

Contract type: Full time, 12 months maternity cover with the potential to extend

Salary: £46-£53,000 per year (depending on experience) 

Location: Hybrid with a minimum of 8 office days per month in either our London or Leeds office. The post will require some UK travel for project work and events, particularly around the North of England

BookTrust is the UK’s largest children’s reading charity. Each year we reach over 1.4 million children and families across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with every local authority, delivering evidence-informed programmes that make a measurable difference to children’s reading behaviours. Our work is rooted in the belief that every child, especially those from low income or vulnerable family backgrounds, deserves the chance to enjoy reading and all the lifelong benefits it brings.  

Job Summary

The Research and Impact Lead role brings scope for collaboration and creativity working closely with BookTrust colleagues, our partners and families, as part of a team of research and impact specialists. In this role we are looking for an experienced and motivated mixed methods researcher and evaluator, with excellent partnership, collaboration and communication skills. The role is likely to suit someone with experience of taking overall accountability for delivery of research and evaluation projects. We are seeking candidates with previous experience of place-based learning and evaluation or strong skills that would be transferable to this context, alongside a strong interest in developing expertise in place-based learning and evaluation.

We will provide excellent opportunities for the postholder to further develop their research, leadership and partnership skills in support of a fast changing, purpose driven national charity. We offer a flexible and supportive working environment and provide on-the-job learning and formal training.

Application

Please apply using the BookTrust Vacancies website, where you can attach a copy of your CV along with a covering letter showing how you meet the person specification and your motivations for applying for the role. Your covering letter should not be longer than two sides. Please also answer this question in your cover letter:

BookTrust is setting up a new place-based pilot to develop a sustainable, place-led model for support which seeks to deepen impact and reach families in greatest need within a particular community. What are some of the principles of good place-based learning and evaluation that BookTrust should incorporate into this work?

Please also attach one or two examples of research, evaluation or learning outputs (reports, presentations etc) you have produced and also specify if you are applying to be based from our Leeds of London office.

Closing date: 14th November

Interviews: Interviews will be in two stages - 1st stage interviews will be on w/c 24th November, via Teams   

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusivity

We aim to provide an inclusive recruitment process and actively welcome applications from diverse talent pools: minority ethnic candidates, candidates with disabilities and long-term conditions and candidates from underrepresented communities.

We are committed to equality of opportunity and want to ensure we have an accessible application process for all candidates. If you need any reasonable adjustments or would like us to do anything differently during the application process, please contact our HR team to discuss your requirements further.

BookTrust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The recruitment and selection process reflect our commitment to safeguarding therefore, the suitability of all prospective employees will be assessed during the recruitment process in line with this commitment, and pre-employment checks.

Location: Remote, North of England with some requirement to travel (UK) and to spend time in London 

The Organisation

The CSJ Foundation was born out of the Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) an independent think tank, established in 2004 that studies the root causes of Britain’s social problems and seeks to address these through innovative policy recommendations to government. The CSJ has changed the landscape of our political conversation by putting social justice at the heart of British politics. This has led to some of the biggest welfare reforms in a generation. The CSJ Foundation is committed to ensuring the voices of grassroots charities are elevated to national decision makers. Our aim is to bring much-needed frontline experience into national policymaking. Utilising local networks and a philanthropic platform to guide investment, the CSJ Foundation will ensure that charities who are fighting the root causes of poverty receive the right support – both in policymaking and funding. The CSJ Foundation was established to magnify and amplify the crucial role played by grassroots charities and social enterprises around the country. These organisations are on the frontline in the fight against poverty and do incredible work, day-in-day-out. Despite this fantastic work, these organisations remain largely unseen and underfunded. The CSJ Foundation seeks to change that.

The Role 

The CSJ Foundation is looking for a Regional Portfolio Manager (North) to join its Portfolio team to help grow and professionalise it’s offering to charities and donors alike. The CSJF has big ambitions for its work with small charities over the next 3 years, central to this work is our Portfolio team. Based in the north of England (ideally north of Sheffield), the post-holder will be responsible for delivering first-rate charity due diligence on some of the best small charities in the UK. In this role you will use tech solutions to drive insights and understanding about CSJF’s work with charities, in addition, the post-holder will gather intel from frontline charities to create insights to inform the CSJ’s policy work. The post-holder will also seek to generate interesting media stories. The post holder will help to generate new income for the CSJF through multiple streams. The post-holder will work towards pre-agreed targets to grow the CSJF’s work, fully supported by the Managing Director and other colleagues. The Regional Portfolio Manager will hold responsibility for building and maintaining relationships with multiple charities based in the North of England, engaging in conversations with local organisations and individuals, to ensure that the CSJF’s work is driven forward effectively. 

The Person 

• Possessing the skills and aptitude to develop new policies and practices for delivering charity/portfolio services
• Interest in developing relationships with charity leaders, understanding their work and impact
• Proficiency for using and interpreting data, creating meaningful insights from gathered data about charities, philanthropy and the voluntary sector
• Understanding of systems and technology that can be used to interpret, analyse and present data
• Some proficiency with presenting information effectively using tools like Canva
• The ability to engage with stakeholders including business leaders, researchers, HNWs, and CEOs
• The ability to work independently and plan programmes of work and manage agreed timelines
• Ability to analyse, understand and synthesise complex information, and to present this in a concise and engaging way
• Ability to communicate well with colleagues and explain complex information simply
• A strong appreciation of the need for accuracy, quality control and process control
• An understanding of the economic and political environment of the day
• Ability to build relationships, utilising a high degree of social intelligence
• An interest in managing processes, driving business change, and developing the use of new technologies in business practice
• Strong understanding of UK charities, the issues faced by the sector, and the policy landscape that affects the voluntary sector.
• A commitment to the CSJF & CSJ’s vision, mission and values
• An interest in current affairs, politics and the social justice agenda
• Meticulous attention to detail and calm under pressure
• A collaborative team player with initiative and a positive “can do” attitude
• Highly organised, discrete, and with a high degree of personal integrity

Main Responsibilities 

Responsibilities for this post include:

• Be a leading member of the CSJF’s portfolio team helping to professionalise and enhance our charity due diligence work
• Helping generate insights from charities to contribute to recommendations in CSJ policy reports
• Work with colleagues to develop a first-class data-input and reporting platform (or database) of charities to monitor their impact and activities
• Use this data to generate insights and presentations to showcase our work
• Interpret data to create insights about charities, philanthropy and the voluntary sector
• Use tech solutions to enhance our data analysis and presentation ability
• Use of presentational tools like Canva (and others) to create information packs for internal and external stakeholders
• Work alongside the Comms team to deliver mainstream media stories generated from frontline insights from the Northern charities
• Responsibility to generate new income for the CSJ Foundation
• Become the internal expert and ‘go-to’ person for 2-3 policy areas connected to CSJ’s research
• Streamline and maintain network of charity contacts across all pathways and then connect the best charities to the CSJ policy team
• Grow and maintain network of regional funders and supporters
• Steward relationship with CSJF Founders Club
• Host visits, events and forums to glean insights from frontline charities based in the North of England
• Support the CSJ Awards application process and judging
• Use the Awards process to onboard new charities
• Manage annual review of Portfolio charities for on/off boarding

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

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

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

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

Responsibilities and Person Specification:

As Policy Officer you'll use your expertise to influence change on key areas, including housing, household costs and income. You'll investigate complex policy areas and translate these into engaging and accessible content for reports and briefings to build a compelling evidence base to directly impact national policy. You will conduct vital qualitative and quantitative research, ensuring our policy positions are robust and informed by real-life experiences, speaking directly to older people in financial hardship. You will also have opportunities to work with a range of external stakeholders to develop and advocate for our key policy calls. 

You will have experience of conducting research and producing high-quality written analysis, with excellent written and verbal skills to effectively tailor information for different audiences. You will be able to apply your existing understanding of public policy, policymaking processes and advocacy to create positive change. You'll need experience of building strong working relationships with diverse internal and external stakeholders. Above all, you will have a genuine passion for our cause!

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

This is a full-time role, 35 hours per week, which you can choose to work over five days or a 9-day fortnight. We also are open to this role being worked on a part-time basis on a minimum of 28 hours per week. It is a fixed term contract for up to 12 months. 

What it’s like to work at Independent Age:

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

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

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

You can find out more about what it’s like to work at Independent Age by visiting our Careers page. 

Application Process:

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

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

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

Closing Date: Sunday 16th November 11:59pm

Planned Interview Dates: Wednesday 26th – Thursday 27th November

Policy and Data Insight Assistant
Hornbeam Park, Harrogate, North Yorkshire

We offer hybrid working and we are committed to paying the Real Living Wage.

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 Data Insight Assistant, 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.

To find out more about our values and how important they are to us, please visit our website.

The Role

As Policy and Data Insight Assistant, you will play a vital role in supporting the Cancer Insight Team to develop policy papers and present data on cancer in Yorkshire. You will also provide administrative support across the team to help others deliver a variety of workstreams.

You will perform a range of tasks to support the Cancer Insight Team's goals. This involves informing internal employees, supporters, and the public about the charity’s stance on multiple cancer-related topics. Additionally, you will assist with collecting and sharing data and evidence related to cancer in Yorkshire, crucial for understanding regional needs and shaping the charity’s objectives.

Specifically, you will:

Policy

• Support the Policy Officer to conduct literature reviews and research for policy development and updates.
• Monitor political announcements, health and research policy activity and cancer-related news at a national and regional level to inform the policy workstream.
• Assist with the drafting of consultation responses, policy reports, background resources and ensuring that the correct messages are conveyed in every external-facing communication.

Data

• Support the Data and Impact Officer in the maintenance of a portfolio of regularly updated external data, facts, statistics and evidence relevant to cancer in Yorkshire.
• Support the preparation of reports on various cancer related topics for external and internal audiences, including assisting with the regularly updated factsheets.
• Assist in the preparation of data requests from across the charity - these will largely be to support the Research, Policy & Impact, and Brand & Relationships teams, and could include data and information for press releases, social media, presentations and planning of future work and priority areas.

General

• Handle regular liaison between internal teams e.g. policy development for external dissemination.
• Support Cancer Insight Team members in monitoring and updating timeframes across various projects to ensure outputs are on track to be delivered on time.
• Undertake regular administrative, research and analysis tasks as required for the wider Cancer Insight Team such as across the Public Affairs and Patient & Public Involvement workstreams.
• Provide administrative support in organising meetings and events, as well as taking minutes at internal and external meetings and ensuring tracking of action points.

About You

To be considered for this role, you will need:

· Previous experience in a relevant subject area, for example public health, public policy or similar fields.

· Experience of conducting literature reviews.

· Experience of researching a wide variety of topics and organisations and writing evidence-based documents e.g. summary reports, briefings or consultation responses.

· Experience of analysing and presenting complex data and information, tailored to different audiences.

· Experience of organising meetings and supporting the organisation/administration of small events.

· An understanding the healthcare system in the UK and the current health policy landscape.

· A passion for policy, data and influencing in order to deliver impactful change.

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

· Ability to interpret and analyse health datasets.

· Ability to communicate findings from health data to a wide range of audiences.

· Ability to extract key information from journal articles concerning health and policy.

· Ability to work autonomously and as part of a team.

· Excellent organisation and time management, with the ability to meet tight deadlines.

· High level of attention to detail and accuracy.

· Competency with Office 365.

· A willingness to complete our pre-employment checks (to be undertaken once the role is offered and accepted) which include:

o A check on your employment history by seeking two references

o A check on your eligibility to work in the UK as per the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006

· A DBS check at basic level. 

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 21 November 2025. 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 the People Team.

We are currently looking for a Policy Adviser to help drive forward our strategic policy advocacy at a critical time for the climate movement in the UK and globally. Uplift is an impact-oriented research and campaigning organisation that supports a rapid and fair transition away from oil and gas in the UK, with a goal of making the UK a global first-mover on phasing out oil and gas production in line with climate limits and a just settlement for the workforce.

The role
As Policy Adviser, you will collaborate with Uplift’s team and key partners to ensure that our collective work is underpinned by robust and forward-thinking policy analysis. From responding to policy announcements, to proactively setting the agenda, to ensuring our team has a sound understanding of the future of the North Sea, this is a diverse role at the heart of our work pushing a just transition away from oil and gas extraction.
The successful candidate will have exceptional policy research skills, an ability to think politically, and a keen interest in climate and energy-related policy and campaigns. A strong commitment to Uplift's mission and core values is also required.

Core responsibilities include:

• Support the delivery of Uplift’s policy analysis, research and advocacy, contributing to our organisational strategy and campaigns.
• Monitor and track ongoing UK climate and energy policy developments to identify key opportunities and risks.
• Produce clear, concise and compelling analysis, briefings, and consultation responses to support Uplift’s advocacy and communications.
• Provide fact-checking and ad-hoc policy analysis for the Uplift team to ensure accuracy in Uplift’s public communications.
• Contribute to Uplift’s “policy unit” by coordinating with colleagues and supporting policy priority-setting.
• Support the teams in developing policy asks, ensuring they are evidence-based, accurate and impactful advocacy.
• Build and maintain collaborative relationships with partners, allies and stakeholders engaged in UK climate and just transition policy.
• Contribute to the wider work of the Research, Policy and Legal team, including supporting knowledge management and maintaining high-quality standards in outputs.

Our ideal candidate will have:

• Experience in a similar or related role (policy, research, advocacy or campaigns). Strong knowledge of UK climate, energy or environmental policy (direct expertise in just transition, fossil fuels or renewables would be an advantage, but is not essential).
• Excellent research and analytical skills, with the ability to synthesise complex information quickly and accurately.
• Exceptional writing and communication skills, with strong attention to detail.
• Motivation, initiative, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-moving environment.
• A strong commitment to Uplift’s mission and core values of equity and climate justice.

Application

To apply for this role, please submit a job application form via the redirect to recruiter link which will be reviewed by our Careers Team on a rolling basis. We will consider applications from candidates wanting to undertake the role as short-term employment, a consultancy contract or a secondment from their current employer.
Accessibility and Anti-Oppression are at the core of Uplift’s values and therefore we strongly encourage applications from candidates whose backgrounds or accessibility/support needs mean they have been traditionally under-represented in the climate and environment sector.
Should you have any specific questions you wish to discuss about your application then send an email to the address in the job description.
If you are unsure if you meet the requirements or feel you will be disadvantaged by the process then please email us at the address in the job description so we can see how we might provide support.
Unfortunately, we can only consider candidates who are already eligible to work in the UK.

Other

• Hours: Standard working hours 9.00 - 17.30, with availability to attend external events which may fall outside these hours. Flexible working requests will be considered.
• Starting date: January 2026 Deadline

Travel: Occasional travel to Arthritis UK offices (London, Chesterfield, Cardiff, Belfast, Glasgow)

Join us and use your skills, knowledge, passion and energy to help us achieve a future free from arthritis.

We’re looking for a Policy Officer who will make a difference to health and social care policy for people with arthritis.  

Within the Chief Executive’s Office, the UK Advocacy and Health Intelligence Department are focused on creating lasting change. We identify creative policy solutions in response to the challenges people with arthritis face. We influence decision-makers through stakeholder engagement, public affairs activity and by campaigning alongside people with arthritis. We have expertise across health and care services, public health, and employment policy. We also work in collaboration to influence medical research and data policy and play an active role in several cross-sector groups.  

About the role
The purpose of this role is to drive policy development across our policy priority areas. The Policy Officer will lead on specific policy projects, commissioning research, developing policy positions, and producing reports and consultation responses.  

This role will cover a broad range of issues across one of our strategic goals – prevention and diagnosis; access to treatment; and living well with arthritis. Our approach considers the needs of people of all ages who have arthritis.               

The Policy Officer will also contribute to the wider work of the team, working closely with colleagues in the Nations Teams, the Research Directorate and the wider charity, including by representing us on cross-sector policy groups, drafting briefings, and participating in events and conferences.  

We’ll give you autonomy, variety and challenge with opportunities to work with inspirational campaigners, attend events in Parliament and meet senior stakeholders in Government. We’re a supportive team who will value your well-being and professional development.  

About you
If your knowledge, skills and experience include the following then we’d love to hear from you:

• Understanding of policy issues relevant to people with long-term conditions or disability.  
• Experience of working in a policy team.  
• Experience of developing and influencing health and social care policy.  
• An ability to think creatively and communicate effectively.  
• An enthusiastic, adaptive and flexible approach.  

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.

Benefits
Your excellent benefits include:

• Flexible hours, environments and working practices to promote a healthy work/life balance.
• Health and wellbeing support – including the Employee Assistance Programme (free confidential 24/7 support with mental health, legal and financial queries).
• Simplyhealth cash plan.
• Supportive and inclusive culture, with a wide range of employee networks and support groups available to join.
• Learning and personal development opportunities.
• Competitive annual leave, with the option to buy/sell up to five days per year.
• Generous pension plan, with employer contribution of up to 10%.
• Life Assurance plan (4 x salary).

You must be based in, and hold the right to work in the UK to apply for this position.

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
Interview date to be confirmed.

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.

Our client, a well-known anti-poverty charity is looking to recruit a Director of Policy & Engagement on a maternity contract of up to 12 months. This great charity provides front-line advice, advocacy and campaigning and policy work on behalf of people in London beneath pension age, who are experiencing issues around benefit payments, disability and housing or who are at risk of homelessness. The services they provide have become even more essential during the current cost of living crisis.

The role:
As Director of Policy & Engagement, you will lead the organisation’s policy, public affairs, and campaigns function, shaping and delivering local and national influencing to drive change on social security and housing issues. You will ensure the voices of people with lived experience are central to all of the organisation’s work, embedding meaningful participation across the organisation, in governance, services, policy and campaigns.

You will also oversee strategic external communications to support the organisation’s influencing, brand and fundraising objectives and will direct all fundraising for your department including managing funder relationships, identifying opportunities and leading on bid writing and reporting.
 
This is a senior leadership role with responsibility for influencing policy and practice locally and nationally and representing the charity as a spokesperson in the media, with government ministers, MPs, and other senior stakeholders. 
 
You will manage a small multidisciplinary team of four, ensuring integrated effective delivery across the organisation. 
 
The role will cover strategic leadership, policy, public affairs & campaigns, stakeholder & media engagement, external communications, embedding participation, fundraising leadership, team leadership and cross-organisational Integration.

The person:
The successful candidate will be a strategic, politically astute leader with experience of leading policy, public affairs and campaigns at a senior level. They will have experience of integrating research campaigns, participation, external communications and fundraising to deliver impact locally and nationally. They will have excellent media stakeholder and political engagement skills, with experience of acting as a spokesperson for an organisation. This person will value and embed lived experience in all aspects of their work and will have a strong understanding of social security and housing policy. 

This person will also have substantial experience of leading on research for social policy influencing purposes in addition to having developed and shaped policy  for an organisation in a charity which works towards combatting poverty and other social justice issues. Having managed political and media engagement and external influencing activities in the past, this person will be an effective relationship manager both internally and externally, in addition to having provided knowledge based leadership to small teams in the charity sector. In addition to being a highly effective project manager, this person will be a very strong communicator both verbally and in writing, and will be fully committed to the aims and objectives of this anti-poverty charity.
​​​​​​​
This organisation is an equal opportunity employer. People with lived experience of poverty, from global majority backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ individuals and disabled people are strongly encouraged to apply. We welcome evidence of experience from both work and non-work settings such as volunteering and personal life. 
 

The Policy and Campaigns Officer will develop policy positions and campaigns that will help ensure that the needs, rights and priorities of those living with DMD are understood and acted on by decision makers, policy makers, parliament and government. The Officer will work closely with colleagues in the Policy and Communications team to support a cohesive and impactful approach to policy, engagement and communications.

Job Description

• To ensure that the charity’s policy and campaigning work is firmly grounded in the views and experiences of the DMD community and to ensure that they are consulted and involved in the development (and delivery where appropriate) of Duchenne UK’s policy positions and campaigns.
• To maximise the benefits of our existing relationships with civil servants, parliamentarians, policy makers, relevant organisations (such as NICE) and charity sector professionals and to create new relationships which help us to achieve our aims.
• To organise events and parliamentary activity working with parliamentary supporters and the DMD community.
• To devise low-budget campaigns aimed at creating positive change in policy, practice or attitudes that will improve the lives and outcomes of those living with DMD. 
• To create campaign assets such as digital and social media content in collaboration with the communications team.
• To draft consultation responses, policy positions and occasional short reports summarising the findings of research we have conducted or commissioned.
• To monitor relevant government proposals and initiatives, identifying those likely to have a major impact on the lives of those living with DMD, and to seek to influence their development.
• To stay abreast of relevant academic research, build relationships with key academics and identify opportunities for collaboration.

Person Specification

Essential experience:

• Experience of working in a policy and/or campaigning role.
• Experience of writing for a range of audiences and using different channels to produce convincing, clear and succinct content across a range of platforms such as blogs, web and print.
• Experience of working with civil servants and parliamentarians.
• Experience of using digital and social media for influencing and campaigning purposes.

Desirable experience:

• Project management experience including initiating, planning, implementing and evaluating campaigns and organising events.
• Experience working in health and social care space, with pharmaceutical industry and/or a highly regulated industry and engaging with regulators.

Essential knowledge:

• Working knowledge of the healthcare system, regulatory framework and the social model of disability. 
• Knowledge of how policy and legislation are developed in Westminster and Whitehall.
• Knowledge of campaigning techniques.

Essential skills and attributes:

• Highly motivated with a passion for improving the life outcomes of people living with DMD.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with people of all ages and backgrounds. 
• Ability to draw out the most salient features of complex issues and debates.
• Ability to analyse large amounts of information and produce easy to digest summaries and position statements.
• Ability to work on own initiative.
• Ability to build excellent working relationships both internally and externally.
• Good organisational and workload management skills.
• Proficient with all main Microsoft Office packages.

Benefits

• 25 days of annual leave + 8 days of public holidays (both pro rata)
• 3 days of office closure between Christmas and New Year
• Summer Fridays – half days on Fridays in July and August (pro rata)
• Flexible working policy
• Hybrid working
• Standard Employer Pensions contributions after 3 months
• Team wellness day and team away day
• Training and development opportunities

Terms and conditions

The appointment is subject to satisfactory references and an initial six-month period of probation, during which performance will be regularly reviewed.

The applicant must have the right to work in the UK and provide relevant ‘right to work’ documentation.

Relevant training will be provided during induction as well as opportunities to develop your career through experience of different aspects of the charity’s work and working with colleagues on new initiatives.

The organisation’s hybrid working policy is at the discretion of the line-manager during the first three months of employment, to support the induction process.

This is a key role in fulfilling CEASE’s aim to drive legislative reform that strengthens accountability, scrutiny and regulation of all parts of the commercial sex industry and other vested commercial interests, which are driving sexual violence, abuse and exploitation. It is about holding the UK government accountable in its duty to protect citizens from high-harm industries, appealing to robust evidence, survivor testimony and a careful critical analysis of the ideological justifications that uphold it. 

The work crosses multiple different areas, from policing, online safety and child protection to violence against women and girls (VAWG). It involves close collaboration with experts and partner organisations through strategic partnerships and coalitions, and the building of trusted relationships with MPs, Peers, civil servants and other decision-makers.

This role sits within the Activism strand of CEASE’s strategy, alongside media outreach and commercial advocacy, and works closely with the Chief Executive and Strategic Director 

Main Duties and Responsibilities

A. Strategic Leadership

• Work closely and effectively with the Chief Executive, Strategic Director and Trustees to advise on priorities and opportunities within this space.

• Develop both short- and long-term political strategies to engage key stakeholders with CEASE’s policy solutions.

• Identify and formulate strategies for gathering robust evidence on key issues where needed.

• Shape policy recommendations in line with CEASE’s strategic priorities and emerging trends.

• Ensure all external engagement reflects CEASE’s values and core messaging.

• Contribute political intelligence and insight to CEASE’s wider strategic planning and organisational development.

B. Policy

Goal: To ensure CEASE’s policy recommendations are robust, evidence-based, survivor-informed and coherent.

• Gather and present evidence on commercial and cultural drivers of sexual abuse and exploitation, and on systemic failures in regulation and enforcement.

• Identify evidence gaps and devise effective means for CEASE or partners within our networks to fill them.

• Produce policy briefings and consultation responses for parliamentarians and civil servants, often in collaboration with allies.

• Monitor parliamentary business in Westminster, analysing legislation and proposing amendments grounded in evidence and framed for maximum impact.

• Develop CEASE’s positions on new and emerging issues and technologies in line with our mission.

• Prepare speeches and statements for the Chief Executive or Strategic Director to deliver to parliamentarians, committees and inquiries.

• Integrate survivor insight and lived experience into policy and advocacy materials wherever appropriate.

• Analyse, distil and present research findings to provide credible, compelling evidence for policymakers and stakeholders.

• Track engagement outcomes and evaluate the impact of CEASE’s policy work, sharing learning internally.

C. Public Affairs

Goal: To ensure CEASE’s policy recommendations are seen, heard and acted upon.

• Create opportunities to promote CEASE’s policy solutions in Westminster through roundtables, drop-ins and parliamentary events.

• Engage directly with decision-makers, building trusted relationships across parties and with key officials.

• Identify and support parliamentarians who can champion CEASE’s issues through speeches, strategic questions, debate briefings and Private Members’ Bills.

• Build and maintain relationships with MPs, Peers, civil servants and officials in relevant government departments (Home Office, DCMS, DfE, etc.); participate in select committees and APPGs.

• Monitor the political landscape to identify alignment between CEASE’s goals and current government priorities, debates and legislative timetables.

• Collaborate with colleagues to nurture relationships with key stakeholders such as charities, public bodies, academic institutions, industry figures and experts.

• Lead or contribute to policy-focused coalitions and alliances aimed at influencing government and legislative reform.

• Support wider campaigns that leverage coalition backing (e.g. petitions, iParls or media initiatives), aligning messaging across CEASE’s team to amplify impact.

• Track and evaluate the reach and influence of CEASE’s public affairs activities to inform ongoing strategy.

D. Research

• Maintain awareness of political and legal developments in other countries and international bodies such as the UN.

• Commission or collaborate on research that strengthens CEASE’s evidence base and credibility.

• Distil complex research and policy information into accessible formats for internal and external audiences, in collaboration with the Chief Executive and Strategic Director.

• Work with the wider CEASE team to “demystify” the political process and support civic and grassroots engagement.

E. Fundraising

• Identify potential donors and funding opportunities through policy networks.

• Contribute to the development of compelling funding cases linked to CEASE’s policy impact and advocacy outcomes.

General Responsibilities

• Represent CEASE externally to promote its work and values.

• Uphold CEASE’s ethical and professional standards at all times.

• Undertake any other reasonable duties as directed by the Chief Executive.

Please see Job Description for full details.

Feeding Liverpool is entering a new chapter in its mission to tackle hunger and food insecurity across the city. We are strengthening our commitment to embedding Good Food principles in every aspect of Liverpool’s food system.

We are recruiting a Policy Coordinator / Lead—a strategic and collaborative thinker who will work closely with Liverpool City Council and a wide range of partners to shape food policy and drive systemic change. This role will lead initiatives to improve food provision for children and young people, influence council policies, and secure funding to advance the goals of the Good Food Plan.

We are a stable, well-funded organisation with a dynamic team, a committed Trustee board, and a vibrant network of partners. Our work is rooted in the lived experiences of Liverpool’s communities—from those facing food insecurity to growers, educators, businesses and community organisaitions. We are proud to be seen as a national exemplar for alliance-based approaches to food justice.

Yet, challenges remain. Liverpool continues to face high levels of food insecurity and health inequality. The community food movement is under pressure from inflation and supply chain issues. The Policy Coordinator / Lead will play a key role in addressing these challenges by embedding Good Food principles across council departments, leading strategic initiatives, and amplifying the voices of our communities.

Main purposes of job:

● To collaborate with Liverpool City Council in reviewing policies and procedures to embed Good Food principles across relevant departments and programmes of work.

● To lead initiatives that improve food provision for children and young people in education and learning settings across Liverpool.

● To scope and secure funding opportunities to advance the goals of the Good Food Plan.

● To collaborate with partners to embed a community-centred approach to improving health, wellbeing and tackling social inequalities.

Key responsibilities:

● Develop and advise on policies and strategies to integrate Good Food principles into council operations, contributing to Sustainable Food Places silver award submission.

● Re-establish and lead Liverpool’s Good Food Policy working group.

● Lead the development a city action plan to improve food provision for children and young people in education and learning settings across Liverpool.

● Conduct and synthesise research, data, lived experience, and policy insights to produce evidence-based recommendations/ actions.

● Document and showcase progress towards the goals of the Good Food Plan.

● Collaborate with national and local stakeholders, including public, private, and VCSE sectors, to develop and implement strategic food-related projects.

● Provide leadership on food policy within the council, aligning initiatives with broader city objectives such as sustainability, public health, and economic growth.

● Identify and pursue funding opportunities to ensure the sustainability of food systems initiatives.

● Represent Feeding Liverpool and Liverpool City Council at local and national events.

*To access the full Job Description and the Person Specification for this role, view the attachment below or visit the Vacancies page on our website.

We encourage candidates who are passionate about food justice, policy innovation, and community-led change to apply.

You’ll be based in or near Liverpool, with the flexibility to work remotely 1–2 days per week, and will be expected to engage actively with our communities and stakeholders.

We also welcome expressions of interest from organisations who may wish to explore the secondment of a member of their staff into this role. Feeding Liverpool values cross-sector collaboration and recognises the potential for shared learning and impact through secondment arrangements. If your organisation is interested in exploring this opportunity, please get in touch to discuss how we might work together.

Please submit applications and expressions of interest via the instructions on our Vacancies page.

POLICY and CAMPAIGNS OFFICER 

Do you want to drive vital change for victims of stalking and harassment across policy and legislation? As a Policy and Campaigns Officer at Suzy Lamplugh Trust, you’ll work on multiple, diverse and fast-paced projects in a committed and expert team. Come and step into a role where your work truly makes an impact. 

ABOUT SUZY LAMPLUGH TRUST 

This post represents an opportunity for the right candidate to join the UK’s founding personal safety charity and leading authority on stalking. 

The Suzy Lamplugh Trust was born out of the tragic story of Suzy Lamplugh, a 25-year-old estate agent who went missing whilst at work in 1986, was never found, and was eventually declared deceased in 1993. The Trust was set up in Suzy’s name and continues to be a pioneer in reducing the risk and prevalence of abuse, aggression and violence - with a specific focus on stalking and harassment – through education, campaigning and support.

We are an organisation that has: 

• been responsible for training over one million lone and frontline workers across all sectors in personal safety; 

• campaigned heavily and played a pivotal role in driving changes in the law to better protect people across the UK; and 

• supported over 75,000 victims and survivors of stalking since the inception of our National Stalking Helpline and stalking advocacy service. 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Support the delivery and evaluation of national campaigns on workplace safety as well as stalking, harassment and other priority areas.

• Maintain effective relationships with civil servants, policy makers, national and local decision makers, and other campaigning bodies and build relevant networks of stakeholders.

• Proactively keep abreast of issues within the post-holder’s own portfolio, general criminal justice, personal safety and Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) policy developments and up to date campaigning techniques.

• To undertake or commission research on specific policy areas as required.

• Develop policy recommendations, write policy and campaigns reports, lobby government and other decision makers and stakeholders, and respond on behalf of Suzy Lamplugh Trust to government enquiries, consultations or other relevant initiatives. 

ABOUT THE ROLE 

The Policy and Campaigns Officer is responsible for supporting on Suzy Lamplugh Trust’s policy and campaigning work relating to reducing harassment, violence and aggression in society by addressing these issues at their root cause, working with employers to improve personal safety culture within organisations and seeking to influence policy and legislative change where necessary. This role will also support campaigns that ensure that victims of stalking receive better support and protection.

Contract Type: Permanent 

Salary: £31,500 

Hours: Full-time 

Please read the attached Job Description and Person Specification for full details. 

As an Equal Opportunities employer, the Trust strives to maintain a diverse and inclusive culture representative of the communities we seek to support. 

 WHAT WE OFFER IN RETURN 

In return for our staff’s commitment and dedication, we offer a range of benefits, including: 

• Hybrid working (minimum 40% in the office) 

• Flexitime Policy 

• 28 days annual leave (which increases after 3 and 5 years to a maximum of 33 days pro rata for part-time) + public holiday 

• Pension scheme with 5% employer contribution 

• Health & Wellbeing App with access to advice, counselling, support and a wide range of discounts 

• Occupational Sick Pay (which increases after 3 years) 

• Cycle to Work scheme (cycle racks on site) 

• Interest-free travel loan for annual season ticket 

• Regular all-staff off-site meetings and events 

Initially office-based (London) for 3 months to support a meaningful induction, moving to a blended working model (40% office / 60% home). While London-based candidates are ideal, we'll consider applicants from nearby areas too.

HOW TO APPLY 

Suzy Lamplugh Trust is committed to diversity and is an equal opportunity employer. Please apply by submitting a CV and a covering letter detailing how your skills and experience align with each point in the person specification. Applications without a covering letter will not be considered. 

All applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK. Please note that if you do not receive a response within three weeks of the closing date, your application was not successful. 

Closing Date: 23rd November 

Interview: week beginning 8th December 2025

About us

The Runnymede Trust is the UK’s leading race equality think tank. We generate research to challenge racial inequality in Britain.

For more than 50 years, we have worked tirelessly to build a Britain in which we all belong. Proudly independent, we speak truth to power on race and racism without fear or favour. We are not swayed by political agenda, profit or popular opinion. We are authentic, led by an ethnically diverse team, and we draw from our lived experience and that of our wide and inclusive community and partnership networks.

The Role

We are seeking a talented and motivated Researcher to join our growing team. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to high-impact research that shapes public understanding and policy on race and inequalities in the UK.

You will lead and support a range of research projects from inception to delivery, using both quantitative and qualitative methods to generate rigorous, accessible and influential outputs. Working closely with colleagues across research, policy and communications, as well as external partners and funders, you will play a key role in ensuring that Runnymede’s work remains at the forefront of the national conversation on race and social justice.

This position is ideal for someone with strong analytical and project management skills, a deep curiosity about racial and social inequalities, and a passion for producing evidence that drives systemic change.

Who we’re looking for

You’ll be the right person for this role if you’re passionate about using research to tackle racial and social inequalities. You will bring experience in both qualitative and quantitative research, strong project coordination skills, and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and accessibly.

You’ll thrive in a fast-paced environment where priorities shift and collaboration is key. With an eye for detail and a commitment to quality, you’ll ensure that every piece of research you deliver is robust, ethical, and impactful.

If you’re ready to contribute to research that informs and inspires action towards racial justice, we’d love to hear from you.

How to apply

To apply please click the apply button below. 

This will take you to our online recruitment platform, BeApplied, which is a platform that aims to facilitate an unbiased and inclusive hiring process.

On BeApplied you will be asked to upload your CV and answer some skill-based application questions instead of a traditional covering letter.

Runnymede Trust is committed to providing equal opportunities for everyone regardless of their background. We acknowledge that people from certain backgrounds are  under-represented in research and policy making and we’re committed to doing what we can to correct this. We are particularly keen to receive applications from Black, Asian and minority ethnic people; people with disabilities; people who identify as being LGTBQIA; people who have a mental health condition; and people who identify as working class now or in the past.

We are also aware that many highly capable prospective candidates nonetheless rule themselves out of work in think tanks because they underestimate their own ability to do the role. With this in mind, we strongly encourage applications from anyone who is prepared to learn and grow on the job and would like to stress that past experience of working in think tanks is not required.

Interview Schedule

Candidates will hear back about their application status on 26th November, and interviews for shortlisted candidates will be conducted on 2nd and 4th December.

The Youth Endowment Fund 

Senior Research Manager

Reports to: Research Lead

Salary: £52,736

Contract: 18 months fixed term 

Location: Central London or Hybrid (see below) 

Closing date:  Thursday 20th November at 12 pm

Interviews: Week commencing - 1st December 2025

About the Youth Endowment Fund 

We exist to prevent children and young people becoming involved in violence. We do this by finding out what works and building a movement to put this knowledge into practice.

Last year, 509 children were tragically admitted to hospital after being assaulted with a knife. Every child captured in these numbers is an important member of our community and society has a duty to protect them. Even when violence doesn’t strike directly, we know that the fear of violence has a terrible effect on children’s lives.

At the Youth Endowment Fund, we are working to create lasting change. To succeed, we must build a world-leading body of knowledge on the violence that affects young people and how it can be stopped. This means producing rigorous, relevant evidence — through synthesis, data analysis and in-depth research into young people’s lives. But knowledge alone isn’t enough. We must make it accessible and actionable: showing what works, how services need to change, and how the systems around them must adapt. And we must partner with the people who can make change happen — across policy, practice and local systems — to turn evidence into impact.

About the role

We recently started a new workstream of research into why violence happens, and which children are most vulnerable. We are working with experts across research, policy and practice to investigate: 

· What are the risk and protective factors for violence?

· Why does violence happen? What are the underlying causes?

· How can we use this research to improve policy and practice, and keep children safe?

We are recruiting a Senior Research Manager to lead a portfolio of projects in this workstream. This will include research exploring how predictive tools and algorithms are used to assess risk of involvement in violence and guide support decisions.This joint programme with UKRI Safer Streets Mission will investigate whether these tools can help practitioners identify people at risk accurately, safely, and fairly—and whether their use improves outcomes.

Predictive tools are structured frameworks that aim to help professionals such as police analysts or social workers assess someone’s likelihood of committing violence. They differ from “pure” professional judgement, where practitioners rely solely on their own assessment without a formal checklist or model. These tools have been used for years but are becoming both increasingly powerful and controversial as new approaches, including machine learning, emerge.

The Senior Research Manager will commission and oversee a research team to deliver two projects:

1. A systematic review of existing research on predictive tools in violence prevention.

2. Primary research on how these tools are currently used in England and Wales, including their practical and ethical implications.

The final report will assess predictive accuracy, impact, implementation, ethics, and equity. The Senior Research Manager will ensure methodological rigour and translate findings into clear, actionable guidance on whether and how these tools should be used.

The Senior Research Manager will also lead a range of related projects, such as:

· Commissioning new research into the causes, risk factors and protective factors for violence.

· Contributing to the development of accessible online tools (similar to our existing Toolkit) which make this research accessible and help decision makers target support where it is most needed.

The Senior Research Manager will be part of YEF’s Research team. The Research team is at the heart of our efforts to learn what works and put it into practice. We do this by developing the YEF’s funding strategy and creating free, highly accessible research summaries and actionable recommendations for policy makers, commissioners and practitioners. We’re a high-performing team which values intellectual rigour and getting to the truth, compassion for children, ambition about what we can achieve and humility about what we know. We love to discuss the latest developments in research methods, but we’re not just interested in research for its own sake. We want research to lead to actual changes in outcomes for children.

Please go to our website for the full 'About You' section and job description.

While it’s not a criterion, we’re especially interested to hear from applicants who have lived experience of youth violence. 

It’s also important to us that the people we hire do not discriminate. We believe in being inclusive and giving everyone an equal chance to succeed. Applications are welcome from all regardless of age, sex, gender identity, disability, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, religion or belief, race, sexual orientation, transgender status or social economic background. 

Hybrid Working Details  

Our office is located in Central London. Team members who reside within the 32 London Boroughs or are within a 90-minute commute are expected to attend the office at least two days per week.

For those living outside of London but within England, Scotland, or Wales, the expectation is to work from the London office two days per month.

As part of our commitment to flexible working, we will consider a range of options for the successful applicant. All options can be discussed at interview stage.

To Apply 

To apply, please send a CV, a cover letter answering the questions below and complete the monitoring form. You can submit your application by clicking on the "Apply for this" button by 12:00pm Thursday 20th November 2025.

When applying for this role, please ensure that your cover letter, within a maximum of 1000 words, covers the following questions:

1. A clear example of when you have translated complex research findings into actionable and usable summaries or guidance for policy makers or practitioners  

2. A clear example of a research project you have delivered or commissioned, and explain how you ensured its quality

Interview Process 

Interviews will take place on week commencing 1st December 2025.  

There will be a task to prepare for in advance of the first stage interview and a possible second-stage interview stage.

PLEASE NOTE: We do not sponsor work permits, and you will be required to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the UK. 

Benefits Include 

• £1,000 professional development budget annually 

• 25 days holiday plus Bank Holidays and 3 additional closure days over Christmas

• Four half days for volunteering activities

• Employee Assistance Programme – 24hr phone line for free confidential support

• Death in service - 4 times annual salary

• Flexible hours. Core office hours 10am – 4pm

• Financial support including travel and hardship loans

• Employer contributed pension of 5% 

Personal Data   

Your personal data will be shared for the purposes of the recruitment exercise. This includes our HR team, interviewers (who may include other partners in the project and independent advisors), relevant team managers and our IT service provider if access to the data is necessary for performance of their roles. We do not share your data with other third parties, unless your application for employment is successful and we make you an offer of employment. We will then share your data with former employers to obtain references for you. We do not transfer your data outside the European Economic Area.   

[1] We have launched a call for proposals for teams to do this work. You can read more about this here.