Policy support officer jobs

About Emmaus

Emmaus Merseyside is an award-winning charity that empowers people to overcome homelessness for good. We provide people with a stable home and life-changing tailored support.

We’re here for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. We see the person and their strengths – and help them get their life back on track, based on the future they want to create. As part of a nationwide movement of local Emmaus charities, we equip people with valuable skills, training and work experience to achieve their goals.

No one’s life should be defined by homelessness. In our caring community, we build on each individual’s abilities, increasing their confidence and self-esteem. The people we support have a purpose and a chance to make a real contribution to their community.

About the role

As Chief Executive Officer, you will be the heartbeat and guiding force of Emmaus Merseyside. This is a role for a leader who believes deeply in people and the power of community.

You will champion our mission, inspire our companions, staff and volunteers, and ensure our organisation continues to grow in strength, resilience and impact. Balancing strategic vision with hands‑on leadership, you will help shape a future where every person we support has the opportunity to thrive.

We are seeking a visible CEO who is grounded in the Emmaus values and passionate about supporting others to succeed. This exciting role is suited to someone who can balance strategic thinking with day-to-day involvement; who listens, brings people with them and leads with empathy, clarity and purpose.

This is an exceptional opportunity to make a tangible difference, lead an established charity, and shape the future of a community that changes lives every day.

Please find attached the Applicant Information Pack below, which includes the job description and person specification.

How to apply

To apply for the role, please download the attached Applicant Information Pack below, which includes the job description and person specification.

You are invited to submit a CV and a tailored covering letter outlining your suitability for the role, along with your alignment to our values and mission. Please apply before the closing date for applications, 10am on Friday 17 April.

Following an initial longlisting process, selected candidates will be invited to an informal conversation with a trustee. This provides an opportunity to learn more about Emmaus Merseyside, the role and our community. Shortlisted applicants will then be invited to attend a formal interview and deliver a presentation on Thursday 23 April. 

This staged approach is designed to provide a supportive and transparent experience, enabling both candidates and the Board of Trustees to explore mutual fit and leadership alignment.

“The go-to organisation for a public health perspective”.

(Senior UK Government official)

The Association of Directors of Public Health (ADPH) is the representative body for Directors of Public Health in the UK. It has a rich heritage, with its origins dating back more than 160 years and is a collaborative organisation working in partnership with others to maximise the voice for public health.

We are now seeking a new Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation through the next phase of its evolution, maintaining and building upon its established reputation and influence. The role requires a wide-ranging set of skills, capabilities and experience, proven leadership and credibility at the highest level. The successful candidate will have strong negotiating and influencing skills, and the ability to work independently, with board-level accountability, and be expected to develop and sustain extensive national networks across local authorities, the NHS, the voluntary sector and central Government. Possessing an adaptability in working practice together with a self-motivated, proactive approach that performs well under pressure, the successful candidate will be educated to Masters level with ongoing study in public health. In addition, they should have senior management training or equivalent experience and a clear record of continuing professional development. Experience should include at least five years in the public health environment, including in policy development, plus a minimum of three years in operational, financial and resource management.

Accountable to our Board of Trustees and the wider membership, the new CEO will develop the strategic direction of the Association and lead the organisation to deliver a rolling medium-term Strategic Business Plan, balanced budgets and effective governance in compliance with company and charity law. An ability to prioritise planned and reactive work programmes to meet the needs of our membership is required, alongside the sourcing and delivery of timely bids for external funding together with the management of staff and resources to ensure value for money and staff wellbeing.

The post holder will support the President, Vice‑President, Board and ADPH Council by applying public health knowledge through teaching, coaching, publishing and presenting as appropriate, maintaining a personal programme of continuing professional development, and be expected to uphold the Association’s values of members first, excellence, collaboration, inclusion and professionalism. Occasional travel, throughout the UK, and flexibility for occasional evening or weekend work will also be necessary.

To apply, submit a CV and a covering letter outlining your leadership experience, strategic achievements and vision for supporting Directors of Public Health across the UK.

Citizens Advice Surrey Heath (CA-SH) is an independent local charity and a company limited by guarantee.

We provide free, confidential, impartial, and independent advice and information for the benefit of the local community, to exercise a responsible influence on the development of social policies and to ensure individuals do not suffer through lack of knowledge or an inability to express their needs effectively.

The Role

Reporting to the Chair of the Trustee Board, the Chief Officer

● Is responsible to the Trustee Board for the management and leadership of Citizens Advice Surrey Heath.

● Represents Citizens Advice Surrey Heath to funders, partners and stakeholders.

● Ensures the delivery of a high quality, impartial and confidential service, utilising both paid staff and volunteers.

● Is responsible for the continuing funding, planning and financial management of the service.

● Represents the organisation in Surrey Heath and contributes to the overall provision of strategic advice services in the borough.

In particular, the priorities for the Chief Officer in 2026 will be to

● Manage CA-SH’s external relationships, with our funders and the Surrey Heath community generally, to ensure satisfaction with the delivery of current projects.

● Build on the current income base, in terms of increased existing project budgets, new projects, and diversifying the income base.

● Explore opportunities to potentially integrate with other local Citizens Advice in Surrey to ensure long-term sustainability and strengthen our impact, in line with the new Unitary Authority structure.

The role requires working closely with the Operations Manager, who will be responsible for staff, volunteers, and, generally, the internal CA-SH operation.

Person specification

Essential

1. Understanding of the voluntary sector and, in particular, knowledge of the strategic and policy environment in which the advice sector, and particularly Citizens Advice operates.
2. Proven ability to devise and implement strategic development and resource plans, particularly in the area of service development, staff development and the management of change.
3. Demonstrable track record of successful income generation and diversification, through promoting services, fundraising, and other activities.
4. Proven track record of devising funded projects, setting them up for delivery and delivering them against agreed targets.
5. Proven ability to lead, motivate and contribute to a team.
6. Demonstrable track record of financial management and budgetary control.
7. Effective communication and presentation skills in person and in writing, to include researching and interpreting complex information and producing clear verbal and written reports, both internally and externally.
8. Proven ability to earn and maintain the trust of stakeholders.
9. Track record in project management.

Desirable

1. Understanding of, and commitment to, Citizens Advice aims, principles and policies.
2. Broad understanding of the operation of local and national government, and the administration of public and legal services, including an understanding of commissioning.
3. Demonstrable ability in people management, particularly in the voluntary sector.
4. Ability to create a positive working environment in which equity and diversity are well managed, and staff are empowered and motivated to do their best.
5. Ability to communicate and work well with a governing body.
6. Track record of managing ICT in a working environment, including ICT business planning, managing information and supplier relations.
 

Staff Benefits

● 6% Employer Pension Contribution
● A company that is committed to its employees, valuing their knowledge, creativity, and flexibility
● Flexible, hybrid working
● Free parking
● Ongoing personal training and development
● The chance to work with amazing people and a nationally recognised charity.

Future Frontiers is seeking an exceptional Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation through an exciting new phase of growth and impact.

This is a remarkable opportunity to lead an organisation that has already helped thousands of young people across London to build confidence, shape their own future careers, and realise their potential. This is a pivotal time for Future Frontiers, as we continue to move forward with our 2025–28 strategy, we are expanding our offer, aiming to increase our reach and deepen our impact.

In recent years, like many similar organisations, we have navigated a challenging financial environment, and through the commitment of our leadership team and Trustees, we are returning to a more positive financial position. The next CEO will build on this momentum – strengthening our foundations, expanding our reach, and ensuring that even more young people can benefit from our work.

This role is an opportunity to lead an ambitious, passionate, and talented team united by a powerful mission: advancing social mobility and transforming life chances. We are seeking a strategic leader, commercially astute, and deeply motivated by the potential of young people. As CEO, you will play a defining role in shaping our future, forging new partnerships, securing vital support, and amplifying our impact.

We are looking for someone who:

• Has proven senior leadership experience, ideally within a charity or purpose-led organisation
• Can set and deliver strategic direction while driving measurable impact
• Is a strong relationship-builder, confident engaging funders, partners and stakeholders
• Brings commercial and financial acumen, with experience of income generation
• Is deeply committed to improving outcomes for young people and advancing social mobility

How to apply
To apply, you will need to send us your CV and a separate supporting statement. Your supporting statement should be no more than 2 sides of A4 explaining why you are interested in the role and how you meet the criteria.

Application deadline: Wednesday 22nd April, 5pm
Round one interview: Thursday 7th May (shortlisting will take place w/c 27th April)
Round two interview: w/c 11th May (date TBC)

Both rounds of interviews will take place in person at our office near London Bridge.

Start date: To be agreed with the successful candidate. Ideal start date September 2026.

The successful candidate will be required to undergo enhanced DBS and reference checks to cover employment for the last 5 years.

To support fair and inclusive hiring, we are asking all applicants to complete our diversity and equal opportunities monitoring form. This helps us to identify barriers and improve our processes. Responses are anonymous, not linked to your application, and do not affect hiring decisions.

For full details on the role, responsibilities, and how to apply, please see the attached CEO Applicant Pack.

YES care about young people's mental health, sexual health and wellbeing. The Outreach and Support Officer will deliver knowledgeable, high-quality, youth-centred support to young people in various settings.

You will get out into the community via outreach engagement, offering one-to-one support, events and groups.  You iwill be a key part of our Information and Guidance team, delivering wellbeing programmes and workshops for YES. 

This role is frontline and delivery-focused, supporting the development of responsive, inclusive, and professionally delivered services in outreach settings such as schools, youth clubs, social spaces and groups and will be pivotal within our small team of young people's support staff. 

Marine Policy Officer
Scotland (Hybrid/Flexible)
£30,533 per annum

Fixed Term until June 2027, Full Time (35 hours per week)

Reports to: Marine Policy Manager

Closing date: 12 noon 13th April 2026

Interview date:  it is anticipated that interviews will be conducted week commencing 20th April 2026

Join us in shaping Scotland’s marine future.

We are looking for a passionate and skilled Marine Policy Officer to join our Policy & Advocacy team and help drive forward our marine conservation and ocean literacy work. This is an exciting opportunity to influence how Scotland manages and protects its marine environment, and to play a central role in the Trust’s Sea the Connection project - an initiative designed to remove barriers and empower communities to participate meaningfully in marine decision making.

The role is varied, high-impact, and ideal for someone who thrives in a dynamic policy landscape and enjoys working collaboratively with government, partners, and communities.

About the Role

As Policy Officer, you will play a central role in advancing the Trust’s marine policy, planning, and ocean literacy ambitions across a diverse and impactful portfolio. Working closely with the Marine Policy Manager and the marine policy inclusion officer, you will contribute to the development of evidence based, solutions focused policy positions on –

• Scotland’s Marine Protected Area network
• National and regional marine planning
• Fisheries management
• Marine renewables
  - and the delivery of Scotland’s Blue Economy Vision - particularly its aim to build an ocean literate nation.

A significant focus of the role will be leading the coordination and delivery of the Scottish Ocean Literacy Coalition and supporting the development of Scotland’s first national Ocean Literacy Strategy. You will convene and chair steering group meetings, design and deliver both online and in person engagement events, and gather perspectives from a wide range of stakeholders to shape a shared national vision for ocean literacy. This will require confidence in planning, facilitating, and managing events, as well as the ability to build strong, collaborative relationships across sectors including government, NGOs, academia, communities, and marine industries.

You will also represent the Trust at external meetings, workshops, and conferences, ensuring our priorities are communicated effectively and that we remain an active, constructive voice in Scotland’s marine policy landscape. The breadth of the role offers an excellent opportunity to deepen your expertise across marine environmental topics while developing your own specialist area of interest. Ultimately, you will help strengthen the Trust’s capacity to influence marine planning processes, support marine protection initiatives, and contribute to a more ocean literate Scotland.

Why Join Us?

• Work at the heart of Scotland’s marine policy landscape.
• Influence real change for nature, climate, and coastal communities.
• Be part of a supportive, knowledgeable, and collaborative team.
• Shape national approaches to ocean literacy and marine protection.
• Develop your own specialist areas within a broad and meaningful role.

For more Information please see the job description below.

To apply please click on the “Apply now” button, which will take you to our application pages.

The Trust is a passionate employer, proactive about creating a culture of diversity and inclusive workplace that promotes and values equal opportunities for all. We welcome individuals from all networks of life, backgrounds, and experiences.

Endometriosis UK is the leading UK charity supporting those living with endometriosis. Formed in 1981, we offer information and support, for example through our website, information leaflets and webinars, and via our local support groups, Helplines and online forum.  As well as directly supporting those with endometriosis, we work to raise awareness of endometriosis amongst healthcare professionals, the public and the media; lobby for improved diagnosis, treatment and management; and support research. We have a big job to do and ambitious plans.

We are looking for an experienced Policy and Campaigns Manager to manage our policy and campaigning work. You will have a strong understanding of the UK political system and how to influence it, and will be confident in drafting reports, consultation responses and working with and disseminating data. You will have worked on health policy before, and will have strong knowledge of how to influence health policy at local and national level.
You must be pro-active in your approach to monitoring the external environment and seeking out opportunities for Endometriosis UK to have the most influence. You’ll be able to work in a small team and understand how we can make the most impact with our limited capacity.

You will be passionate about menstrual health and ensuring patient voices are at the heart of all we deliver, and will be able to turn policy asks into strong campaigns.

 About the role:

This is a pivotal role in our Campaigns and Communications Team, reporting to the Head of Campaigns and Communications. You will be managing the drafting of evidenced-based policy positions (for example analysing research, data and lived experience insight) and work with the Head of Campaigns and Communications to ensure these are translated into effective campaigning activity that drives real change.

You will oversee the integration of policy and campaigns activity, working closely with the Campaigns and Policy Officer, and enabling the Chief Executive and Senior Leadership Team to engage with parliamentary and high-level stakeholder engagement.

This role offers a great opportunity for an experienced Policy and Campaigns Manager to shape how Endometriosis UK uses evidence, policy and campaigning together to improve diagnosis times, access to treatment, and support for those affected by menstrual health conditions across the UK.

The Compliance Officer will safeguard the charity by contributing to robust internal governance and compliance processes, supporting risk identification and management processes and being mindful of relevant legislation and regulation. This role will be able to interpret regulatory guidance and make suggestions for changes to internal processes, including but not limited to guidance published by the Charity Commission for England and Wales and the Information Commissioner’s Office.

Through the development and utilisation of new and existing processes, you will provide assurance to the charity’s leadership teams that the organisation operates in line with statutory obligations, internal policies and procedures and recognised best practice standards.

This role will co-ordinate and support the development, implementation, and regular review of policies and procedures that underpin strong internal controls and transparent decision-making. Responsible for supporting colleagues with identification, assessment, and monitoring of incidents and operational risks, helping to record proportionate controls and review periods to protect all stakeholders. In doing so, you will promote a culture of accountability, ethical conduct, and continuous improvement across the charity. 

This role focuses on the processes that support operational day-to-day governance and compliance, as opposed to overarching governance which falls to the responsibility of the CEO, supported by the Board Secretary/ Executive Assistance role.   

Working closely with the Finance and Operations Manager, Quality Assurance Manager and external Data Protection Officer to ensure a co-ordinated and streamlined approach to governance, compliance and risk across the whole organisation. 

This role is not responsible for: 

• Acting as Board Secretary 

• Strategic decision making 

• Providing legal advice 

• Acting as the Data Protection Officer 

You Will Bring: 

A strong understanding of internal governance frameworks, ability to implement and coordinate risk management principles and processes and a strong understanding of regulatory compliance. You will demonstrate exceptional attention to detail, sound judgment, and the confidence to ensure processes are applied across the organisation. With strong analytical and problem-solving skills, you will proactively help others to identify risk and implement and record effective mitigations and controls. You will be able to implement processes which support continuous learning and improvement of policies and procedures. You will work closely with others who have a responsibility for compliance, quality measures and risk identification processes ensuring seamless working across departments.

You will also bring excellent written and spoken communication and have strong interpersonal skills, which enable you to deliver training to others and to foster a culture of integrity around compliance. You will build trusted relationships across the organisation while maintaining independence and objectivity in your own role, having the confidence to speak up if change is needed or processes and practice needs to change. 

We’re looking for someone who is highly organised with attention to detail and is able to work collaboratively with a focus on operational delivery.

How to apply 

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

Closing date: 9am Monday 6th April 2026 

Interviews:  

First stage virtual: w/c 13th April 2026 

Second stage in-person (Leeds): w/c 20th April 2026 

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

Policy Officer

Join a nature restoration charity, whose mission is to restore beavers to regenerate our landscapes.

We are looking for a Policy Officer to influence national policies and strategies that enable the restoration of beavers, rivers and wetlands.

Position: Policy Officer

Location: Remote, resident in mainland Britain

Hours: Full or part-time. 4 days per week (30 hrs), 4.5 days per week (33.75 hrs) or 5 days per week (37.5 hrs)

Contract: Permanent

Salary: £29,403 per annum, pro rata

Closing Date: 9:00am on Monday 20th April 2026. We reserve the right to interview candidates and close the ad ahead of the closing date, should a strong candidate be identified.

Interview Date: Online interviews will be held on Tuesday the 12 May. You will be asked to give a short presentation to the interview panel and may also be given a task to undertake during the interview

About the Role

Working closely with and supporting the Policy Lead, the role involves engaging with stakeholders to build strong, effective relationships and help drive policy change in support of the charity’s mission. Sitting in the Influencing team, the Policy Officer will collaborate across the organisation, including with Restoration, Communication & Education, Fundraising, and Support & Governance teams.

Key areas of responsibility include:

• Research and monitor changes in policy and legislation with direct and indirect impacts on beaver restoration across Britain.
• Draft relevant responses, policy documents and political briefings.
• Organise policy events and meetings to support influencing work.
• Monitor the policy positions and activities of stakeholder organisations, including partners and those with opposing views.
• Cultivate and maintain stakeholder relationships, including with politicians, government officials, and partners to bolster support for the trust’s policy positions.
• Represent the organisation at meetings and events, including those of Wildlife & Countryside Link, Wales Environment Link, and Scottish Environment LINK coalitions.
• Support delivery of campaigns.
• Personal data administration to ensure compliance with the GDPR
• Work closely with the wider team to ensure cross organisational working to maximise influencing impact.

About You

You will have an understanding of the environmental policy landscape - including agri–environment schemes - across Britain at both local and national levels. With strong influencing and communication skills, you will have the ability to articulate policy positions clearly and persuasively to support policy change.

You will have proven ability to build and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of external stakeholders, including those who may hold differing or opposing views. For example government officials, NGOs, partners, and landowners.

With the ability to synthesise, interpret and apply scientific research to inform policy development and advocacy, you will have:

• Experience of producing high-quality reports, briefings and written communications for diverse audiences.
• Highly organised, proactive and self-motivated, with a strong commitment to the organisation’s mission and values.
• IT and visual content creation skills.
• Willingness to travel extensively across Britain for work, including frequent overnight stays, with access to transport to get to areas not covered by bus/rail.

All shortlisted candidates will be contacted by Thursday the 30 April. If you have not heard from us by this date, please accept our thanks for applying and assume that you were not shortlisted on this occasion.

About the Organisation

Join a nature restoration charity, restoring beavers to regenerate our landscapes. Our client’s team is small with a diverse skillset and extensive experience in beaver ecology and restoration, human-wildlife coexistence, and policy. They provide practical solutions to help people to co-exist with beavers and influence legislation in Scotland, Wales and at Westminster that rebuilds ecosystems, improves river health, and strengthens climate resilience in a time of ecological and climate crisis.

Benefits include:

• 25 days holiday, plus Christmas day through to New Year’s Day paid, plus 6 days of floating holidays.
• Flexible approach to hours of work.
• Travel, accommodation and subsistence expenses will be met by the trust in
• Pension contribution of 3% of your total pay each month
• One-off contributions toward the cost of an ergonomic office chair and toward purchases of essential devices (laptop, mouse and smartphone)
• Monthly home working allowance, plus an annual contribution toward the maintenance and/or replacement of the essential devices.

We are committed to inclusive recruitment and are happy to make reasonable adjustments at any stage of the process. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, especially those underrepresented in the environmental sector, including people of colour, disabled people, those from low-income backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ communities and all other protected characteristics

You may have experience in roles including Policy, Policy Officer, Policy Executive, Grants and Policy, Environment, Environmental, Environmental Policy, Environmental Policy, Nature. #INDNFP

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

Policy Officer

Bowel Cancer UK is the UK’s leading bowel cancer charity. We’re determined to save lives and improve the quality of life of everyone affected by bowel cancer. We support and fund targeted research, provide expert information and support to patients and their families, educate the public and professionals about the disease and campaign for early diagnosis and access to best treatment and care.

We currently have employees working across four nations in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Thanks to the generosity of our community, we’re in a privileged position to be able to deliver our ambitious new strategy, On a Mission. There are huge challenges facing bowel cancer patients across the UK and our community needs us now more than ever. We’re building a strong and united team to bring us closer to a world where nobody dies of bowel cancer.

Job Sumnmary for Policy Officer 

We are looking for a Policy Officer to join our Policy and Influencing team. You will build on your policy experience, responding to and shaping policy to ensure it drives real change for people affected by bowel cancer. You will turn complex issues into clear, actionable insight for colleagues, partners, and decision-makers, and contribute to evidence-informed positions that support the charity in influencing health policy. You will also lead on your own policy areas and work closely with our bowel cancer community to ensure their experiences inform and shape our work.

Person Specification

Qualifications and Experience

• We welcome applicants from a broad range of experience and background, specifically spanning policy, science or health
• Some direct experience of working on policy issues in health, or a relevant sector, and a willingness to develop these skills further, alongside an interest in those issues affecting bowel cancer patients.

Knowledge, skills and abilities

• Good verbal, written communications and presentation skills with the ability to communicate effectively and adapt style to different audiences. Including the ability to explain information clearly and encourage colleagues to understand different points of view
• Proven ability of strong analytical and research skills to identify and solve a range of problems
• Good interpersonal, influencing and negotiating skills
• Understanding of the health policy and political environment
• Excellent organisational, time and project management skills with the ability to prioritise work, handle conflicting demands and meet tight deadlines on defined work areas
• Proven ability to support the day-to-day management of specified projects, proving some technical input in the project planning stage.
• Knowledge of the health service and health service policy issues. Awareness of cancer issues and bowel cancer in particular is desirable

Please refer to the Job Description for further details. 

Safeguarding

Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility and at Bowel Cancer UK we are committed to safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Successful candidates may be subject to either a satisfactory basic, standard or enhanced DBS check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) dependent upon the role.

Organisation: Museums Association

Salary: £32,313 per annum (FTE £43,084)

Contract: Permanent, part-time. 22.5 hours per week across 3 days (0.75 FTE). As a progressive employer, the MA offers contracts based on reduced and compressed hours where a full-time contract is 30 hours per week, Monday-Thursday.

Location: Hybrid working – all staff are expected to attend office days twice per month (typically in London)

Closing date: 11.59pm on Sunday 12 April 2026

Interviews: Online w/c Monday 27 April 2026

The Museums Association (MA) is seeking a part time Policy Officer to play a leading role in developing our policy and campaigns work.

In this exciting role you will have the opportunity to deliver admin support for our campaigns and policy, including Museums Change Lives, Museums and Climate Justice, Decolonising Museums, and anti-racism. You will support committees and stakeholders, help to draft policy papers and support the development and delivery of communication and dissemination plans. You will also have the opportunity to draft impactful content for our website, events and online learning, and respond to information requests to ensure that we deliver for our membership and the wider sector.

You will support and work closely with the MA’s policy and ethics lead, including delivering advocacy across the UK nations and have opportunity to develop a role in campaign areas where you have experience and/or interest.

The ideal candidate will have excellent administration and communication skills; knowledge of the policy-making process in the UK; the ability to research and write accessible, clear policy content for a range of audiences; an enthusiasm for museums and the positive difference that they can make working in partnership with their communities; and will be able to manage multiple individual pieces of work.

The MA is a dynamic and campaigning membership organisation with a mission to inspire museums to changes lives. We have a strong vision and values and a bold business plan. Joining us is an excellent opportunity to work for a vibrant and inclusive organisation and be part of a friendly and enthusiastic team.

The closing date for applications is 11.59pm on Sunday 12 April 2026

Please see the job pack which includes the person specification and information on how to apply.

Interviews will be held on online w/c Monday 27 April 2026.

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. 
 

Senior Policy and Research Officer 

Job Description

Role Overview

Role title: Senior Policy and Research Officer
Team: Policy and Research
Reports to: Policy and Research Director
Salary: £32,000 – £34,000
Location: Kettering (flexible working considered)

Purpose of the role

The Senior Policy and Research Officer supports the organisation’s work to influence policy and practice by delivering high-quality research and analysis.

The role contributes to building a strong evidence base that informs decision-making by government, employers and partners, and supports Youth Employment UK’s position as a trusted source of insight.

What the role is accountable for

Outputs (what is delivered)

The role is responsible for designing, delivering and reporting research projects, including quantitative and qualitative analysis.

This includes analysing data, developing research tools, producing reports and briefings, and supporting the communication of findings to a range of audiences.

Outcomes (what success looks like)

Success in this role is demonstrated through the production of high-quality, reliable research that informs policy, supports organisational strategy, and is used by stakeholders.

The role contributes to strengthening the organisation’s evidence base, supporting policy development and influencing work, and enabling colleagues to use research effectively.

Behaviours (how the work is done)

The role requires a structured and analytical approach to work, with clear and accurate communication of complex information.

It involves working collaboratively with colleagues, maintaining high standards of quality and professionalism, and ensuring that research outputs are accessible and useful to different audiences.

Attitudes (ownership and judgement)

The role requires a strong sense of responsibility for the quality and accuracy of work.

This includes taking ownership of research tasks, managing competing priorities, identifying risks or issues early, and applying sound judgement when interpreting data and presenting findings.

Key priorities

The main focus of the role is on delivering research projects to a high standard, supporting policy development, ensuring research is accessible and usable, and contributing to the wider work of the team.

Skills and experience

The role requires experience in research within a policy or related environment.

Candidates should demonstrate strong quantitative and qualitative research skills, the ability to analyse and interpret complex data, experience using relevant tools, and the ability to communicate findings clearly.

An understanding of youth employment or related policy areas is desirable.

How success will be measured

Performance will be assessed through the quality and reliability of research outputs, ability to meet deadlines, contribution to policy work, effectiveness in communication, and alignment with organisational values.

Working arrangements and benefits

This role is based in Kettering, with flexibility considered depending on the needs of the role and team.

Youth Employment UK offers a supportive working environment and is committed to flexible working where possible. Benefits include annual leave, pension contribution, and opportunities for development.

Values

Youth Employment UK is committed to being a professional, collaborative and purpose-driven organisation.

All colleagues are expected to:

• work in a way that reflects our commitment to young people and employers

• demonstrate professionalism and integrity in their work

• collaborate effectively with colleagues and partners

• contribute to a positive and supportive working environment

Recruitment process

We aim to provide a clear and consistent recruitment experience.

The process for this role is expected to include an initial online interview (approximately 30 minutes), followed by a second-stage interview, usually held in person, including a structured interview and a role-related task.

Candidates who attend the interview will be informed of the outcome as soon as possible.

We are committed to fair and accessible recruitment. Please let us know if you require any reasonable adjustments at any stage of the process.

Details

Position:Head of Community Support and Operations

Location:Barnsley, South Yorkshire

Hours:30 hours to be taken flexibly over Monday – Friday; 1 day wfh allowance

Salary:                                £50,562 FTE (£40,996 pro rata)

Contract type:Permanent

Reportable to: CEO

Direct reports: Volunteer Development Co-ordinator, Charity Advisor and Partnership Coordinator and any relevant roles that develop

Job Purpose

The Head of Community Support and Operations is a pivotal new role being introduced to the executive team at Barnsley CVS.  This person will be a key role in the growth and development of the executive team.  You will play an exciting part in the delivery and development of the recently developed 4-year strategy and theory of change. Your role will drive intention and focus on developing our support to the sector in a meaningful way to high standards, whilst ensuring our own internal operations reflect best practice.  You will need a strong knowledge of charity set up, management and governance along with a passion for what the VCSE sector does.  You will be confident in people management and development; have the ability to work inclusively with a wide range of people and backgrounds and the skill to see gaps and opportunities for service development.

You will work closely with the Head of Strategic Partnerships to identify gaps and opportunities to develop our offer of support to the sector whether through direct services, training, brokerage agreements or membership offers.  As you identify these opportunities, you will work collaboratively with the Head of Business Development to explore commercial income options that are also in line with our mission and vision.

Using your excellent people skills, you will act as the first point of contact for HR matters within the charity, overseeing the general management of our online HR system, policies and procedures.  You will work in collaboration with the CEO in any areas that need significant development or management.

You will keep up to date with new initiatives and ideas in the wider infrastructure sector, relevant legislation and modern thinking in relation to charity management best practice.

Benefits:

- 33 days annual leave increasing with years of service + annual leave given between Christmas and New Year that doesn't count against your annual leave

- Sick leave entitlement increases with years of service

- 5% pension contribution

- Paid leave to complete voluntary activity for up to 5 days pro rata

- Discount on local gym membership

- Flexible working with TOIL given for any additional hours worked