Policy and advocacy manager jobs in sidcup, greater london

Join us on this exciting journey and help shape the future of allergy care! As a Policy and Influencing Officer. You will work closely with internal and external partners to increase the charity's profile, influence key opinion leaders, and drive policy changes that improve the lives of those with allergies. Your responsibilities will include:

• Contributing to the planning and delivery of influencing, engagement, and campaigning activities.
• Monitoring and horizon-scanning the external policy and public affairs environment.
• Supporting the National Allergy Strategy Group (NASG) by providing secretariat services.
• Engaging with politicians, government departments, and external agencies to galvanise support for allergy-related initiatives.
• Drafting accessible communications on policy issues for various audiences.
• Representing Allergy UK at external meetings and events.
• Coordinating engagement with the allergic community and volunteers to ensure advocacy activities are informed by their priorities and experiences.

About Us:
Allergy UK is the leading national charity dedicated to supporting the millions of people in the UK living with allergic conditions. We are passionate about raising awareness, providing trusted advice, and advocating for better healthcare and support. As we embark on our 2025-2030 strategy, we are looking for a dynamic and dedicated Policy and Influencing Officer to join our team and help drive meaningful change.

What We Are Looking For:

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a similar role with a proven track record of influencing public affairs and policy change.
• Strong understanding of local, regional, and national government policy-making processes.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage a varied workload.
• Passionate about making a difference for people living with allergies.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary and annual leave entitlement.
• Pension contributions.
• Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working.
• Access to our Employee Assistance Program and wellbeing resources.
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression.

About Us
Allergy UK is the leading national charity dedicated to supporting the millions of people in the UK who live with allergic conditions. We work tirelessly to raise awareness, provide expert advice, and advocate for improved healthcare and rights for those affected by allergies.

The Role
We are looking for a dynamic and driven Fundraising Manager to play a crucial role in managing our amazing corporate partnerships, acquiring new business and the effective stewardship of our supporters. In this role, you will deliver on the £384k corporate partnership target.

Why Join Us? At Allergy UK, you’ll be part of a supportive and passionate team working to improve lives. We offer a collaborative environment where your ideas and expertise will shape the future of allergy awareness and advocacy in the UK. This is your chance to use your skills to create lasting change!

Spotlight on Corruption has an exciting opportunity for a passionate and talented individual to lead our strategic engagement with Westminster and external stakeholders.

Deadline for applications is 23.30 on Sunday 25th May

About Spotlight

Spotlight on Corruption is a small team with outsized impact that shines a light on the UK’s role in corruption at home and abroad. 

We build the evidence base for reform through investigative research and extensive engagement with experts and frontline staff, and act as policy entrepreneurs, developing innovative and pragmatic solutions. We disseminate our work through hard-hitting reports and briefings for decision-makers and the general public and follow through with dogged advocacy to shape the narrative, as well as working in a highly collaborative manner to build consensus for reform.

About the role

We are looking for a passionate and talented individual to lead our strategic engagement with Westminster and external stakeholders. You will be an energetic and creative individual with a flair for building common ground, making connections as well as identifying and maximising political opportunities. You will be able to grasp complex details quickly and communicate them to a wide range of audiences. And you will have strong strategic nous, excellent networking skills, and an ability to keep your ear to the ground.

This role will work across our two thematic areas of ending impunity for corruption and defending democracy, liaising closely with the policy leads for those areas. You will be Spotlight’s organisational lead on developing our networks in Parliament, maintaining our relationships with Coalitions, and creating opportunities to get Spotlight messages across to policy and decision makers. 

Spotlight on Corruption is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment where all staff feel respected and valued. We conduct anonymous long-listing to help promote fairness and diversity, and encourage candidates from different backgrounds and experiences to apply.

Key responsibilities:

• Growing and maintaining Spotlight’s relationships and networks with parliamentarians, policy makers and external partners, including by attending events, receptions and proactively setting up meetings with key stakeholders and decision makers. 

• Developing strategies to enhance Spotlight’s profile and influence with policy makers including organising policy briefings and events in person and online.

• Monitoring developments related to Spotlight’s priorities in political, policy and legislative processes and identifying opportunities to highlight and promote Spotlight’s work and reform agenda.

• Developing and writing compelling briefings, statements and other communications including social media posts tailored to diverse audiences.

• Supporting research and helping brief staff members ahead of public appearances where appropriate.

• Representing Spotlight in NGO coalitions where appropriate and building our relationships with other NGO stakeholders.

• Supporting fundraising initiatives for Spotlight.

Person specification - Essential:

• Experience of engaging with UK parliamentary procedures, and legislative processes and influencing parliamentarians in support of advocacy objectives.

• An interest in strategic influence and policy development and the ability to navigate complex political environments.

• Excellent and persuasive communication skills and messaging abilities to get across complex legal and technical issues in an engaging way for a wide range of audiences.

• Excellent networking and relationship-building skills, and the ability to forge and nurture constructive dialogues and working relationships across the political spectrum and within civil society.

• High levels of organisation, an ability to prioritise a busy workload and a willingness to chip in with administrative tasks where necessary as part of a small team. 

• A track record of using initiative and seeking opportunities to secure policy impact. 

• A track record of operating to high standards as a strong team player in a collaborative manner.

• Strong understanding of the UK political and anti-corruption landscape and a passion for fighting corruption.

• Eligibility to live and work in the UK.

Person specification - Desirable:

• Direct experience of working in Parliament.

• Ability to undertake research and data analysis, including using the FOI regime.

• Experience of working with campaigning organisations.

• Experience of stakeholder management and convening.

Working arrangements:

Full-time, 35 hours per week. 30 days of annual leave (plus public holidays). Remote working from home required, with one day a week in the office, and regular meetings - sometimes at short notice - in London. Flexible working, including nine-day fortnight.

Responsible to: Executive Director

Start date: As soon as possible 

About SafeLives

We are SafeLives, the UK-wide charity dedicated to ending domestic abuse, for everyone and for good.    

Last year alone, 14,000 professionals received our training. Over 80,000 adults at risk of serious harm or murder and more than 100,000 children received support through dedicated multi-agency support designed by us and delivered with partners. In the last six years, over 4,000 perpetrators have been challenged and supported to change by interventions we created with partners, and that’s just the start. 

Together we can end domestic abuse. Forever. For everyone.

About the role

The DAPO Project Manager will work closely with the DAPO Programme Manager and SafeLives Finance Manager to support the successful delivery of the programme and maintain effective commissioning relationships with service providers across each pilot area. Key responsibilities will include overseeing commissioning contracts, supporting programme implementation, managing stakeholder relationships, and providing regular progress reports to commissioners.

Hours: 22.5 hours per week with flexible working hours and provision of an out-of-hours response as needed.

Location: Remote working. You will be required to travel when the role requires it.

Contract: Fixed term contract to 31st March 2026.

Benefits

• 34 days' holiday incl. public holidays
• Flexible working e.g. compressed hours
• Cycle to work scheme
• Eye care vouchers
• Pension scheme with 4% employer contribution
• Childcare vouchers
• Employee assistance programme
• Clinical supervision
• Holiday purchase scheme to buy up to an additional 5 days
• Enhanced family leave policies
• Enhanced sick pay
• Professional development fund
• Individual learning budget
• Restorative practice training
• Time off in lieu 

If this challenge sounds as exciting to you as it does to us and you believe you have the qualities we have described, please take a look over the job description and submit a 500-word cover letter and CV.

Closing date: 9am on 30th May 2025.

SafeLives is a committed provider of equal opportunities for all; please see our job description for full details.

No agencies, please.

At Ambitious about Autism, we're currently looking for an Online Communities Manager to join our National Services team.

We work together with autistic children and young people, their parents and carers, and our partners to create a world where every autistic child and young person can thrive. Our online communities play a vital role in this vision, helping autistic young people explore their autistic identity, connect with others, and take part in meaningful projects and campaigns. We also provide parents and carers with a safe, supportive space to share experiences, access information, and find solidarity with others.

We're looking for a passionate and creative individual to join us at an exciting time of growth. You'll help us expand our reach, increase diversity, and develop engaging digital content that speaks to the experiences and ambitions of autistic young people and their families.

In this role, you will:

• Lead and develop our online communities to ensure they are safe, inclusive, and empowering spaces
• Create and curate digital content that informs, inspires, and engages our audiences
• Develop partnerships to drive the growth, diversity and reach of our online communities
• Work closely with our participation team to elevate the voices of autistic young people
• Collaborate with marketing and communications to deliver our National Services strategy

We'd love to hear from you if you're committed to inclusion, excited by digital engagement, and motivated to make a difference.

In return, we offer great benefits including a generous holiday allowance and commitment to continued professional development (CPD) and more!

This is a fantastic opportunity for an ambitious individual who would like to work for a forward-thinking, open and honest organisation and make a real impact to the young people we work with. Please find our full recruitment pack on the link below.

If you have any questions about the role or would like to have a confidential chat, please contact James Axford, Recruitment Officer.

Ambitious about Autism is committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion at every level of our organisation. We warmly welcome applications from all qualified candidates, valuing the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives they bring. We encourage applications from individuals regardless of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or parental status, disability, or age.

Our recruitment process promotes equal opportunities, and we are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for candidates with disabilities or additional needs throughout the recruitment process. Please contact our Recruitment Team for accommodations. We recognise disability as a physical or mental impairment that significantly and long-term affects a person's ability to perform day-to-day activities, as defined by the UK Equality Act 2010. All applications will be considered solely on merit, aligned with our mission to support autistic children and young people.

Ambitious about Autism is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and successful candidates will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check. As part of our Safer Recruitment checks, an online search maybe carried out in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.

The Safeguarding responsibilities of the post as per the job description and personal specification.
Whether the post is exempt from the rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendment to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2021. This means that when applying for certain jobs and activities certain spent convictions and cautions are ‘protected', so they do not need to be disclosed to employers, and if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account. Further information about filtering offences can be found in the DBS Filter Guidance.

Join the leading national charity dedicated to supporting babies, families and NHS staff. This is an excellent opportunity for a creative and proactive person to join a dynamic Policy, Research and Campaigns team and make a real difference to the lives of families and babies in neonatal care.

Role Summary

One in seven babies is born premature or sick and needing care on a neonatal unit – this isn’t what most parents expect for their baby.

Bliss is the UK’s leading national charity for babies born premature or sick, and we are looking for a Policy and Research Officer to join our enthusiastic and passionate and high-achieving team. While small, we punch above our weight having recently changed the law to secure parents of premature and sick babies' extra parental leave.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone to help support our Research, Policy and Campaigns team and to create real impact along the way.  
 

• Location: Hybrid (a minimum of three of your days over two weeks will be worked in the Bliss Head Office, London SE1)
• Salary: £30,560 FTE, Permanent
• Terms: 30-35 hours a week 

Role Details

This is an excellent opportunity for someone to gain experience in a wide-ranging role which will make a real difference to babies born premature or sick, and their families. You will support the team to support clinical research, spearhead campaigns and make impactful changes to policy across the UK. 

The ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate the following skills and experience: 

•At least one-year experience working in a research, campaigning or policy environment (in a paid role or in a voluntary capacity)
•Have excellent written communication and interpersonal skills
•Can build strong, influential relationships 
•An understanding of the importance of service user voice in research
•Research skills and the ability to analyse and interpret complex data and issues
•Excellent organisational, project management and prioritisation skills.
 

Don’t meet every single requirement?
Studies have shown that women and people of colour are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At Bliss we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role, but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every aspect of the job description, we encourage you to apply to tell us what you can offer our organisation. You could be just the right candidate for this or other roles
 

For more details, please view the job description attached to this advert.

How to Apply

Interested applicants are requested to submit the following documents

• Your CV (please ensure this does not include your age, gender or any other personal characteristics)
• Supporting statement explaining how you meet the criteria in the person specification. This should address the essential points of the person specification and is expected to be no more than 1000-1500 words long

This information is used when shortlisting candidates for interview.

Recruitment Timeline 

The deadline for applications is 9am on Wednesday 28 May. First round interviews will be held virtually (via zoom) w/b 9 June, with second interviews in person at our London Bridge office in w/b 16 June.

It is Bliss’ policy not to contact applicants who have not been invited for an interview so if you have not heard from us three weeks after the closing deadline, you should assume that your application has been unsuccessful.

£47,000 per year
Kings Cross, London (hybrid)
35 hours per week
Permanent

RNIB are recruiting for two Policy Managers (1 x International, 1 x Devolution) to lead within our policy team, ensuring we produce well-evidenced, impactful policy to drive real change to deliver better outcomes for blind and partially sighted people. Please tell us in your supporting statement, if you have a preferred role.

Both roles will sit underneath our Head of Policy, managing your own policy area with line management responsibility for 2-3 Policy Leads. You will also be responsible for either our liaison with RNIB's International team and our links with the global sight loss community, or the devolution agenda, looking at how we make policy across the four nations and into the regions of England, linking with our Area Campaigns team to drive forward regional strategy.

You'll oversee the development of policy positions across the team, bringing together internal and external expertise to get to the root of the issues affecting blind and partially sighted people, coming up with solutions for change and ensuring the voice of blind and partially sighted people is at the heart of everything we do.

To succeed in this role, you will be:

• A strategic policy expert - Experienced in shaping public policy and leading impactful campaigns that bring about real change.

• Passionate about inclusion - Deeply aware of the challenges faced by disabled people and committed to ensuring their voices are at the heart of policy development.

• A confident communicator - Skilled at turning complex data and ideas into clear, compelling reports, briefings, and messages tailored to different audiences.

• A collaborative leader - Able to lead and inspire a team, build strong relationships across the organisation, and work in partnership to achieve shared goals.

• Organised and delivery-focused - Comfortable managing multiple projects, setting priorities, and delivering high-quality work to tight deadlines.

• An influential advocate - Ready to build connections with colleagues, stakeholders and decision-makers, and represent RNIB with clarity, credibility and passion.

What We Offer

RNIB prides itself on being a great place to work with a positive, progressive culture. We offer a wide range of benefits including 26 days of holiday per year (plus bank holidays) which rises with service, enhanced family friendly benefits, a contributory pension scheme with an employer contribution of up to 11% and a rewards platform with employee discounts across over 800 retailers.

For more information on our available benefits, please visit our .

How to Apply

If you'd like to apply for this opportunity, please apply online, uploading your CV and supporting statement, telling us how you meet the essential criteria in the person specification.

Help shape science policy that tackles the biggest challenges of our time.
From tackling the health impacts of climate change and supporting healthy ageing to advancing medical innovation, physiology – the science of how the body works – underpins some of the most urgent and exciting frontiers in research and policy today. At The Physiological Society, we bring together scientists from around the world to champion evidence-based policy and support a thriving research ecosystem. We’re looking for a Policy and Public Affairs Officer to join our team and help ensure science plays a central role in shaping policy for healthier, longer lives. Whether your background is in health, biomedical research, the environment or science policy more broadly, this role offers a unique opportunity to make an impact across a wide range of issues. You will join us at an exciting time, as we host the Global Climate & Health Summit.

About the role
You’ll play a vital role in delivering an ambitious programme of policy and public affairs activity, influencing government, engaging key stakeholders and championing evidence-based policy informed by physiology. Working closely with the Policy and Public Affairs Manager, internal teams, Society members and global experts, your work will span issues such as precision medicine, climate change and health, and research funding. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the broader R&D and policy landscape while supporting a dynamic scientific community.

Key responsibilities include:

• Developing policy positions and crafting impactful responses to government consultations
• Monitoring political developments and advising internal stakeholders
• Building strong relationships with policymakers, parliamentarians and external partners
• Organising events such as policy briefings and parliamentary receptions
• Supporting funding proposals for policy-related initiatives
• Writing engaging briefings, statements and communications tailored to diverse audiences

About you
You’ll be passionate about policy and science, with a strong understanding of how public affairs can influence change. You’ll also bring:

• A degree in life sciences, public policy, political science, or a related field
• Proven experience developing and advocating for policy positions
• Excellent communication and writing skills, including the ability to translate complex ideas clearly
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects
• Confidence engaging with senior stakeholders and representing the organisation externally

Desirable:

• Familiarity with the UK and Ireland’s research and science policy landscape
• Experience using digital tools for public engagement and stakeholder management
• Event planning experience
• Understanding of climate, health or biomedical research policy

Why join us?
At The Physiological Society, we are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion and strongly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those from underrepresented communities.

You’ll be part of a supportive, mission-driven team making a real difference in how science shapes society.

We offer excellent benefits, including private medical insurance and a generous pension scheme.

How to apply
To apply, please send your CV and a covering letter outlining how your experience aligns with the role.

PLEASE DO NOT APPLY IF YOU DO NOT HAVE THE RIGHT TO WORK IN THE UK. We do not offer sponsorships.

About you

Do you want to use your skills to make it possible for people with myeloma, an incurable blood cancer, to live longer and better lives?

Myeloma UK is looking for a motivated and pro-active Policy Officer to join our Patient Advocacy team within the wider Research and Advocacy directorate.  You will have experience of analysing, developing, and communicating policy issues, excellent communication and influencing skills and the ability to present findings and recommendations to a range of audiences.  The post holder will have excellent attention to detail and the ability to prioritise and work under pressure.

The successful candidate will be a highly regarded ambassador for Myeloma UK with a desire to continuously improve and to make a difference while working flexibility and using their own initiative.

Experience of public/patient engagement work, participating in government policy consultations and patient advocacy campaign work would be beneficial but not essential.

About the role

As the Policy Officer you will be part of the Patient Advocacy team who work to ensure that the patient voice is heard and acted upon by UK and devolved nations healthcare policy decision makers. You will support Myeloma UK’s ambition to deliver personalised medicine, such that every person living with and affected by myeloma and associated conditions has access to the best diagnostics, treatment and care services and quality of life experience.

Your role is vital to developing strategic approaches to UK health policy legislation and consultations to ensure that UK government and devolved nations healthcare policy supports the needs of people living with and affected by myeloma and associated conditions. 

You will support the Policy Manager to assess existing healthcare policies, regulations and legislation to understand their implications for myeloma-specific healthcare systems, providers and patients

About us

Myeloma UK is the only UK charity focused on myeloma and its related conditions.  We provide support and influence access to treatments, while researching a cure.  Thanks to life-extending treatments and support, today many people affected by myeloma are able to live longer and to live well.  Together, we support, so no one faces myeloma alone. 

We are committed to bringing together the best and brightest people to help us ensure that every patient has an empowered present and a hopeful future.

Our ultimate goal is to find a cure and make myeloma history. Until then, our mission is to help every patient live well with myeloma for as long as possible. We are committed to diagnosing myeloma earlier, discovering and sharing knowledge, transforming the patient experience and influencing positive change in care.

Our culture

Wellbeing and staff engagement are at the heart of our culture.  We offer our employees a range of benefits including a pension salary exchange scheme, flexitime, flexible working from home with hub-based office working, health plan, employee assistance plan and holiday purchase scheme and we are committed to providing learning and development opportunities for all our employees.

How to apply

If you think you would be a great fit for this role, get in touch and tell us more about yourself by sending the following:

1. A cover letter telling us more about you and what you think makes you a good fit for this role

2. A CV that sets out your career history, with key responsibilities and achievements

Applications close on 12 May 2025 and interviews will be held w/c 19 May 2025.

Myeloma UK is an equal opportunities employer and always welcomes applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of:

· sex

· race

· disability

· age

· sexual orientation

· gender reassignment

· religion or belief

· marital status

· pregnancy and maternity

Please note, you will be asked to provide evidence of your eligibility to work in the UK prior to interview selection.

Advocacy Manager

Location – Remote from the UK with regular travel to Manchester and London

Starting Salary - £40,416 per annum (plus contributory pension)

MAG saves lives and builds futures by working with others to reclaim land contaminated with the debris of conflict, to reduce the daily risk of death or injury for civilians, and to create safe and secure conditions for development. MAG shared the 1997 Nobel Peace Prize as a founding member of the International Campaign to Ban Landmines for our work to ban landmines. Our vision is a safe and secure future for men, women and children affected by armed violence and conflict. 

We are looking for an exceptional Advocacy Manager to work within our Policy and Strategic Partnerships team.  This is a fantastic opportunity to join a dynamic international charity that shared the 1997 Nobel Peace-Prize.

You will be working with the Director of Policy and Strategic Partnerships in the development and delivery of MAG’s advocacy work, including leadership of MAG’s UK parliamentary engagement, and contribution to the European and US engagement strategies.

The successful candidate will have previous experience of engaging and influencing UK parliamentarians, including the House of Commons and House of Lords, in support of advocacy objectives through a variety of tactics. You will have up-to-date knowledge of the UK political scene, and key players for MAG’s focus areas, knowledge of UK parliamentary processes and influencing tactics. You will also have a proven track record of meeting targets and deadlines and an ability to build, manage and develop relationships with key stakeholders. Excellent coordination and communication skills will also be essential.

The role will involve travel in the UK and Internationally.

What you can expect in return: 

· Competitive salary 

· 25 days annual leave per year, plus public holidays. 

· Company pension (matching at 5%

· Employee Assistance Programme: MAG offers free access to Health Assured, a service providing 24/7 confidential support and expert advice on a wide range of issues. 

Further information and how to apply:

For the further information on the role, the application pack and details of how to apply, please visit the MAG website by the closing date of 5th May 2025.

Application is by submission of the following documents to humanresources [@] maginternational [.] org by the closing date of 5th May 2025:

1. Up-to-date CV

2. Cover letter, setting out why you believe you are suitable for this position, and how you feel you align to MAG Values.

3. Completed Candidate Profile Form

Due to the high volume of applications, we receive, we cannot respond to every application. If you have not heard back from us within 3 weeks of applying, your application has not been successful.

Please note that as part of MAG's commitment to safeguarding, this post is subject to background checks before an offer of employment is confirmed. For more information on MAG’s approach to safeguarding here and background checks here. You can also find more information in the candidate information pack, available on our website.

MAG is committed to the principles of diversity, equality and inclusion. If you think you would be suited to one of our roles we would welcome your application regardless of your background. We strive to provide an inclusive and supportive working environment where all employees feel respected and supported in fulfilling their potential.

The Mental Health Foundation is recruiting for a Senior UK Policy Manager to support the Policy team based at our London or Glasgow office.

Deadline: 5pm on Monday 5th May
Location: London OR Glasgow
Salary: Starting at £41,800 rising to £48,070 pro rata, plus £3,285 London Weighting if applicable
Hours: Full-time, 32 hours per week (as part of our 32-hour week pilot and may revert to 35 hours after July 2025) [part-time hours may be considered]
Contract type: Permanent

This exciting role will develop and bring together our policy and public affairs work from across all four nations of the UK to drive better understanding and action on public mental health.

What does the role involve?​

• Working with our Head of Policy and Heads of Nations to design and help implement our UK policy and public affairs programme.
• Working collaboratively with teams across the UK to align our policy goals, taking into account different contexts in each of the nations.
• Influence and inform policy-makers, opinion-formers, professional bodies and politicians to support and promote public mental health.

What skills, knowledge and experience are we looking for?​

• Strong intellectual, analysis and influencing skills.
• Experience of working in a UK organisation seeking to shape policy in all four nations of the UK.
• Good understanding of Westminster and at least one of the Scottish Parliament, Welsh Senedd or Northern Ireland Assembly.

Safeguarding is Everyone’s business – Mental Health Foundation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing of all its beneficiaries, those who surround them, its staff, volunteers, and anyone else who comes into contact with its services and expects all trustees, staff, and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to appropriate vetting procedures (proof of eligibility to work in the UK, proof of residency and satisfactory employment screening, including a Disclosure check and two most recent references) along with 3-year renewals of Disclosure checks.

We are unable to provide sponsorship for this post, you must be able to demonstrate your eligibility to work in the UK.

About us

Since 1949, the Mental Health Foundation has been the UK’s leading charity for everyone’s mental health.

Our vision is for a world with good mental health for all. With prevention at the heart of what we do, we aim to find and address the sources of mental health problems so that people and communities can thrive.

We will drive change towards a mentally healthy society for all, and support communities, families and individuals to live mentally healthier lives, with a particular focus on those at greatest risk.

The Foundation is the home of Mental Health Awareness Week.

How to apply

If you think your skills match and you’d like to be part of a dynamic and growing organisation, please complete and submit your application form by clicking 'Redirect to recruiter'. Please note that all sections of the application form should be completed as CVs alone will not be accepted. Applications will close at 5pm on Monday 5th May and we are unable to accept late applications. Interviews are planned for week commencing 19th May.

We believe our people should represent the communities, organisations and individuals we work with. Diversity and inclusion is a strategic priority for us as an employer and mental health charity, and we are proud to be signatories of the Business in the Community Race at Work Charter and the Disability Confident Committed Scheme. Applications from under-represented sections of the community are actively encouraged.

If you have a disability, require any additional support or have any questions regarding the role, please contact us. We make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and during employment. Disabled candidates who meet all the essential person specification criteria will be offered an interview. Therefore, please do ensure you tick the relevant box on the application form and clearly indicate in your application/covering letter if you consider yourself to meet the requirements of the Equality Act 2010 / Disability Discrimination Act 1995.

We are currently operating mostly digital recruitment (including interviews via video conferencing). We have moved to a hybrid working model of a minimum of 2 days per week in the office and the rest working from home for full time staff, pro rata for part time staff.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Policy and Communications Manager

Job Description and Person Specification

Job title Policy and Communications Manager

Hours 28 hours per week (can be flexible on work pattern)

Salary £42,000 FTE Actual for this role £33,600 pro rata

Location Hybrid work between home and our Vauxhall office – please read more about our approach to hybrid working in the relevant section below. Please note that our offices are fully wheelchair accessible and that we are committed to making our workplace fully inclusive

Reports to Director of Policy and External Affairs

National Voices

Making what matters to people matter in health and care

National Voices is the leading coalition of health and social care charities in England. We have more than 200 members covering a diverse range of health conditions and communities, connecting us with the experiences of millions of people. We work together to strengthen the voice of people: patients, service users, carers, their families, and the voluntary organisations that work for them.

Our Vision:

People shaping their health and care.

Our Mission:

We advocate for more inclusive and person centred health and care, shaped by the people who use and need it the most.

We do this by:

· Understanding and advocating for what matters to people especially those living with health conditions and groups who experience inequalities.

· Finding common cause across communities and conditions by working with member charities and those they support.

· Connecting and convening charities, decision makers and citizens to work together to change health and care for good.

The Role

The purpose of the Policy and Communications Manager role is to:

• Deliver against our National Voices’ policy and project work through a programme’s life cycle, from inception to delivery and evaluation, and within budget
• Manage our communications work to our members and external stakeholders to successfully communicate all relevant organisational output including policy, improvement, lived experience and insight work.
• Work with voluntary sector organisations and people with the greatest health and care needs to develop National Voices’ deliver our policy and communications positions in line with our strategy and members priorities.

The role will be a mix of policy and communications, with 75% of the role likely focused on policy.

Responsibilities

Management oversight

· Manage projects or programmes which are significant in terms of income, profile or risk, and which are often delivered in partnership with others.

· Identify possible future partnerships, follow-on work and funding opportunities that arise from our policy and external affairs work, including from stakeholder relationships, and proactively work to secure income

· Line-manage staff, in the first instance our Communications and Events Officer, to include appraisals, setting objectives, monitoring performance and supporting development.

· Support the policy and external affairs team to deliver against our priorities and projects, including deputising for the Director of Policy and External Affairs, working in sync with other team managers and holistically supporting junior staff members

Deliver against our policy priorities and projects

· Identify, monitor and evaluate policy issues to formulate new policy positions, taking responsibility and action for our position on specific policy areas. This may include developing policy briefings, position papers, consultation responses, blogs, reports, letters and other policy and public affairs documents that capture our policy positions.

· Lead on policy projects from inception to delivery and evaluation including keeping to a set budget where appropriate.

· Develop and collate qualitative and quantitative policy evidence, from analysing previous reports and external stakeholder guidance to developing and delivering against workshops, focus groups, round tables, engagement events and in-depth interviews.

· Work with voluntary sector organisations and people with the greatest health and care needs to understand their experiences, perspectives and ambition using methods laid out above but with a willingness to adapt and flex where needed.

· Connect with policy and comms stakeholders both within our membership and in the wider policy landscape, to spot and make connections among members and to deliver against our five-year strategy objectives

· Work with the wider team to consider how our we evaluate and monitor the success of our project work and our wider influencing wins

· Represent National Voices at external events and conferences where required

Deliver on our communications work

· Work with the Communications and Events officer to help them develop engaging content that conveys National Voices messages to members, external stakeholders, and media to maximise the reach and impact of the organisation’s policy messages and funded project work

· With the support of Communications and Events Officer support media relations activity by drafting media statements, liaising with journalists and other media activity as required

· Manage the sign-off of relevant comms materials including social media, member newsletter, blogs, articles and media statements

· Liaise with senior external stakeholders such as from the Department of Health and Social Care, including attending relevant briefings, and supporting larger joint press activity with other stakeholders when required.

· Oversee management of comms and events calendar, which will be proactively compiled by the Policy and Communications officer, especially where there are conflicts or competing needs

· Along with other managers provide a second review of reports we produce including ensuring adherence to brand guidelines

General

• Take a pro-active approach to including our members and people with lived experience in all areas of our work.
• Support the senior team in identifying potential new members and funding opportunities where possible, as well as costing and drafting bids or supporting others to do so.
• Follow processes set out to measure, monitor and communicate the impact of our work.
• Support good project, financial and data management.
• Contribute to the team’s planning activities and undertake other relevant duties as appropriate.
• Deputise for other members of the team when needed.

• Be prepared to take part in full day events, including providing planning and support
• Be prepared to take part in events outside of core hours, when sufficient notice has been given

Person Specification

Values, attitudes and behaviours

• Passionate about National Voices’ mission and work.
• Proactive, flexible and responsive
• Comfortable working in a team, as well as under own initiative
• Calm under pressure and able to work to tight deadlines while maintaining accuracy.
• Committed to reducing inequality and embracing diversity.
• Comfortable with a range of views and perspectives and keen to make connections and build relationships.
• Willing and confident to assert views, constructively challenge others and receive constructive feedback.

Skills and abilities

• Excellent communication skills, including written and oral, including stakeholder engagement
• Demonstrable experience in delivering against a policy influencing agenda
• Able to synthesise complex information and present it in simple and impactful ways.
• Strong organisational and project management skills, including demonstrable ability to prioritise workload and maintain quality.
• Excellent people skills, able to work collaboratively and flexibly in a small, friendly team, and communicate and collaborate with a wide range of external stakeholders at all levels
• Experience in Identifying and developing funding opportunities, ideally including costing and drafting bids
• Ability to embed clear and reliable processes amongst a team of creative and busy people
• Strong IT skills including Microsoft Office programmes, CRM systems, online conference/meeting software and other programmes where required.
• Able to work well under pressure and to tight deadlines while maintaining attention to detail
• Previous line management experience is preferred

Our approach to hybrid working

We recognise the importance of coming together regularly, in-person, as a team, so we can share learnings and spend social time with each other. We also recognise that people need flexibility, and that homeworking enables focused work and can fit well in people’s lives.

We ask all staff to take part in pre-arranged team meetings which take place every six weeks in our office space. We also might ask you to meet in-person with members of your team from time to time, or to be available for face-to- face meetings with clients and partners where this enhances the work.

We assume that this would usually not amount to more than one day per fortnight for people who work full time. We are happy to discuss how this sits in your life. This can be agreed by your line manager.

Equality and Inclusion

As reflected in our Equality Action Plan, we are committed to being a truly diverse organisation. We want to ensure that our trustees, staff members, lived experience partners and volunteers come from a wide range of backgrounds, each bringing their own unique perspectives and experiences. We want to ensure that everyone feels heard and is fully able to participate and thrive.

We are committed to diversifying our team in order to broaden the insight and experiences we can draw on, and to do our work more credibly. So we strongly encourage people from a Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic background, and people who live with health conditions or disability to apply. Our offices are fully accessible and we are an LGBT+ friendly employer. Men are currently underrepresented in our team so we would welcome applications from men and non-binary people.

We welcome applications from people who have been in contact with the criminal justice system. For some roles, you may be asked to undergo a basic or enhanced DBS check, but you will only be deemed ineligible for roles which relate to any offences on your criminal record.

We have a range of benefits in place to ensure everyone can thrive, for example:

· We are a Disability Confident employer

· We offer enhanced parental and sickness leave

· We offer flexible working wherever possible

· We provide our employees with an annual wellbeing allowance

· And much more

Application guidance

Please submit a cover letter along with a CV to apply.

Applications should be addressed to our Director of Policy and External Affairs, Sharon Brennan, and submitted through CharityJob.

Please apply by Monday the 5th May 2025

We will let you know the outcome of your application by Friday 9th May 2025  

Interviews will be held on 22nd May 2025 on Teams

Please note, we will be blind shortlisting all applications, so we ask you not to include your name in your application.

If you are invited to interview, we will ask you about any reasonable adjustments you will need to be able to participate. We will share interview questions in advance of the interview. If you require any adjustments at any stage of your application, please do not hesitate to get in touch with Matthew Haslehurst Director of Finance and Operations

Please specify any access or other requirements of which we need to be aware for the online interview.

£40,000 - £45,000 per annum

Permanent, full-time (37.5 hours per week)

Hybrid working with regular travel to our London Bridge Office

What the job involves

We have a fantastic opportunity for a highly motivated and results-driven Solutions Manager to join an established development team at one of the most dynamic and fastest growing charities in the UK. 

The Solutions Technology Team are dedicated to enhancing the delivery technology solutions we provide. Data underpins the insight that informs our decisions and shapes the way we build lasting relationships with our customers — from service users and fundraisers to campaigners and volunteers. As an organisation, we’re on a journey to transform our culture to be driven by data and insight, and this role will play a pivotal part in making that vision a reality.

With a focus on aligning technology solutions with business needs, the Solutions Manager will review requirements and turn them into clear, actionable project plans. You’ll oversee the full solution delivery process, including managing timelines, budget, resource allocation and risk mitigation. You’ll also manage the general maintenance of our bespoke in-house applications, which include bespoke ETL system, and front-end web applications.

You’ll be supporting the Head of Technology and Solutions with software architecture, databases support, network infrastructure, and relevant programming languages to a degree that enables you to grasp technical discussions and identify potential challenges.  Our in-house development platforms are built using PHP and Microsoft SQL Server and leverage robotic automation tools such as Toca.io and Power Automate all hosted-on Azure cloud infrastructure. 

Acting as line manager, you’ll oversee and coordinate the day-to-day work of our Solutions technology team, supporting two Developers, a Business Analyst and third-party developers to deliver projects on time and in line with business needs.

What we want from you

We’re looking for a Solutions Manager with a strong understanding of the development lifecycle, business analysis, requirements gathering, database design, optimisation, and general programming. You’ll need to be comfortable overseeing and helping to shape the architecture of our bespoke in-house applications, while taking ownership of existing systems — understanding how they’re built, how they work, and the part they play within the organisation.

You’ll have proven experience in managing teams (both in-house and external) and providing coaching and development opportunities to help your team perform at their best. Experience with both Agile methodologies and the software development lifecycle (SDLC) will be essential, as you lead the team to deliver high-quality, timely solutions.

Problem-solving and decision-making will be at the heart of your role, and your excellent communication skills will enable you to explain complex technical concepts clearly to a variety of audiences, from technical teams to non-technical stakeholders.

If you’re looking for a position where you can make a real impact every day, we’d love to hear from you.

Why work with us?
Every man needs to know about the most common cancer in men – prostate cancer. It’s a real and present danger that takes over 12,000 of our dads, grandads, brothers and friends each year.

Prostate Cancer UK is the largest men’s health charity in the UK. We have a simple ambition – to stop prostate cancer damaging lives. We invest millions in research to revolutionise testing, treatment and care. We’re blazing a trail to a screening programme that could save thousands of lives with regular, accurate tests for all men at risk. And we work tirelessly to spread the word about risk and offer specialist support to people living with the disease.

Work with us and you’ll see your efforts pay off as we give men and their families the power to navigate prostate cancer.

Our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion

At Prostate Cancer UK we’re committed to righting health inequalities across the UK, starting with those faced by Black men. This includes ground-breaking research into Black men's risk and working with communities directly to overcome barriers to the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer. To make this happen, we're dedicated to being an inclusive, proactive organisation, as we strive to be Ally's to Black communities. We’ll achieve this by advocating and working alongside those communities to promote change. We're also working to be Ally's to each other, not only protected groups. In 2024, we launched our New Ally Ship Training Programme. All colleagues at Prostate Cancer UK will be trained to act and identity as an Ally. 

We've also signed Business in the Communities Race at Work Charter, as a dedication to our Black health equity work and wider EDI priorities. As a signatory, we're responsible and accountable for driving positive change.

Ways of working

Our hybrid working approach combines the best of flexible working – a positive work/life balance, inclusive and accessible platforms, and online information at our fingertips.

Next steps
More information on what we offer, as well as the role, can be found on our vacancies page. Please download our job profile document (job description) with our ‘How to apply’ section sharing the key points to refer to in your application and to apply, please visit the website via the apply button.

The closing date is Monday 26th May 2025.  Applications must be submitted by 23:45 UK time.

Interviews: By arrangement. Currently scheduled for the week of Monday 2nd June 2025.

Prostate Cancer UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1005541) and in Scotland (SC039332). Registered company number 02653887.

Role Overview:

The Talent set is seeking an experienced Senior Marketing Manager – Policy and Advocacy to join a well-known health charity at an exciting time of transformation. This initial 3-month contract (with potential for extension and consideration for the permanent role) will focus on developing and executing strategic marketing campaigns that support the charity’s policy positions and advocacy goals.

The role involves building strong relationships with policymakers and stakeholders and contributing to shaping the public discourse on key health issues. This is a hybrid role, requiring travel into London 1–2 days per week for workshop meetings.

Key Responsibilities:

· Develop and implement marketing strategies to support policy and advocacy work, aligning with the organisation’s broader objectives.

· Manage advocacy campaigns from conception to execution, ensuring they are impactful, measurable, and targeted effectively.

· Engage with stakeholders including policymakers, media, and sector influencers to promote the charity’s positions and build support.

· Collaborate cross-functionally with PR, communications, and policy teams to ensure campaign cohesion.

· Monitor policy trends and conduct research to inform strategic messaging and campaign direction.

· Evaluate campaign performance, using analytics and data to assess effectiveness and inform ongoing improvements.

· Manage budgets for policy-related marketing initiatives efficiently and transparently.

Person Specification:

· Proven marketing and communications experience, particularly in strategic and advocacy-focused roles.

· Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling narratives.

· Solid understanding of policy and advocacy, including knowledge of the policy-making process.

· Strong relationship-building skills, capable of influencing and engaging diverse stakeholders.

· Highly analytical and results-driven, able to evaluate success using performance metrics.

· Excellent project management abilities, with experience managing multiple initiatives concurrently.

· Experience in digital marketing and social media strategies.

· Background working within a charity, public affairs or health-related organisation.

· Experience collaborating with policy and communications teams in a cross-functional environment.

What’s on Offer:

· A competitive day rate of £222–£244 PAYE + holiday pay for the successful candidate.

· A hybrid working pattern, requiring travel into London 1–2 days per week for workshop meetings.

· An initial 3-month contract with the potential for extension and the possibility of applying for the permanent position.

How to Apply:

To apply, please submit your CV demonstrating your suitability for this role by clicking the “apply now” button.

We aim to get back to all successful candidate within 48 working hours.

Commitment to Diversity:

The Talent Set and our partner organisation are committed to diverse and inclusive recruitment practices, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of race, sexual orientation, disability, age, or gender. We actively encourage applications from a wide range of backgrounds and are always happy to make reasonable adjustments to ensure a fair recruitment process.