Policy and Public Affairs Assistant

The Public Affairs Assistant will work with the Public Affairs Manager, Director of Policy and Evidence and the Policy and Campaigns Team to help influence decision makers and build stronger relationships with stakeholders, and ensure there is better understanding of the impact that challenges with talking and understanding words can have on a child and young person’s life. 

We are Speech and Language UK (formerly I CAN) – we want every child to face the future with confidence. For 1.9 million children in the UK learning to talk and understand words feels like an impossible hurdle. We want to reach children earlier to make sure every child has the skills to face the future. We design innovative tools and training for staff in schools and settings, give families the confidence and skills to help their child and put pressure on politicians to prioritise support for children.

The post-holder will:

·       Provide the administrative support to the Speech, Language and Communication Alliance playing a key role in support the charity to foster stronger relationships with key partners

·       Support the Public Affairs Manager in dissemination of briefings and correspondence with parliamentarians and civil servants, including setting up meetings

·       Attend meetings as required, both in person and online to facilitate record keeping and liaison

·       Maintain the Microsoft Team and SharePoint sites so that documents and notes are securely stored and accessible and version control is maintained.

We are keen to hear from you if you have:

·       Previous office/administrative experience (paid or unpaid).

·       Proficiency in Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

·       Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written).

·       Commitment to the overall aims of the charity.

·       Flexible, positive attitude towards performing a variety of duties.

·       Willingness to develop/learn in the role.

To apply, please submit your up-to-date CV and a covering letter of no more than two pages, addressing how you meet the criteria above by Monday 29th April, 9am. Interviews are due to take place on 7th May. 

Please note that we will not close applications before this time and date as we recognise that candidates put in a lot of time and effort into making an application and we want to give each of you the time and space to put in an application you feel proud of.

Please note that we will not shortlist candidates who do not submit a CV and a supporting statement.

Due to the volume of applications we receive, unfortunately, we are not always able to respond to every applicant. If you have not received a response within one week after the closing date, you have not been successful on this occasion.

Speech and Language UK is passionate about promoting equality, valuing diversity and working inclusively. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons particularly Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic applicants, as these groups are currently under-represented in our workforce.

We are committed to safer recruitment practices and to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.