Policy development jobs

The Academy of Medical Sciences’ FORUM is a neutral, independent platform for bringing together leaders from research, industry, the health system, charities and Government to share insight, exchange evidence and explore solutions to complex challenges in health and life sciences. Relevant Academy priorities for this role include, but are not limited to:

• Improving health outcomes in the UK and internationally
• Mobilising the UK health research system to turn discovery into practice.
• Making the UK the best place in the world to have a career in medical sciences

As Senior Policy Officer, you will help shape and deliver this high‑impact cross-sector programme — ensuring the Academy convenes the right people, on the right issues, at the right time. In the next year, policy areas you will work on may include prevention and early detection, using clinical evidence to speed up translation from discovery to patient impact, inclusion of underrepresented groups in research, and the use of AI and data across biomedical sciences.

You will lead delivery of a portfolio of policy meetings and workshops, produce influential outputs, and manage relationships across the FORUM network. You will use evidence, stakeholder insight and sound judgement to support decisions about where the Academy should focus its convening power, helping us maximise our impact while maintaining the high standards and values that underpin our work.

This role offers a unique opportunity to shape conversations across the life sciences and contribute to improving health through evidence-informed policy.

FORUM is a cross-sectoral programme, and we welcome applications from people with a variety of professional backgrounds. You might have experience in healthcare (including allied health profession such as nursing), medical research, Government, regulation, humanities, economics, community engagement, and/or industry. This list is not exhaustive, please do contact us if you would like to discuss the relevance of your experience.

Benefits

• Generous pension scheme with flexible contributions – we contribute between 8% - 13% of your gross salary (with employee contributions of 3% - 8%)
• Life assurance at three times your salary
• Hybrid and agile working. 50% office attendance
• 26 days annual leave, plus Christmas closure days and bank holidays
• Buying and selling leave
• Family-friendly policies including enhanced maternity and paternity leave (subject to a qualifying period)
• Complimentary subscriptions to Headspace and Classpass to support your physical and mental wellbeing
• Support through tailored learning and development
• A range of enhanced benefits become available once you’ve completed your probation period

For more information and to apply, please visit our careers page.

Closing date: 9.00am on Tuesday, 14 April 2026.

Interview date: Tuesday, 28 April 2026 (online).

Role overview 

This newly created senior role strengthens The Young Foundation’s strategic business development function and supports income growth across the full range of our programmes and partnerships. The post will provide expertise in fundraising and procurement processes including approaches to philanthropic funders and investor circles as well as formal tendering, dealing with a range of funding modalities from research grants to commercial consultancy and trusts and foundations. 

Key responsibilities 

Business development and income growth

• Lead high‑value income generation processes, including building consortia, securing philanthropic funding, and delivering high quality formal tenders, coordinating inputs from across our delivery teams.

• Oversee the preparation of costed proposals and pitches for a diverse range of funders, including research councils, local authorities, commercial consultancy, and philanthropic trusts. 

• Support the continued growth and impact of The Young Foundation’s external-facing activity, aligning business development with communications and policy work. 

• Manage a robust pipeline, tracking opportunities and ensuring strategic alignment with organisational priorities.

• Develop budgets, pricing models, and partnership structures for commissioned work.

• Identify new funding and commissioning opportunities through horizon scanning, network engagement, and proactive outreach.

• Collaborate with senior colleagues to refine and grow thematic and programme areas.

• Support and advise colleagues across the organisation on approaches to business development including opportunity identification, competitive analysis, structuring meetings, building consortia and financial models. 

Partnerships, networks and relationship management

• In collaboration with programme delivery leads, build and steward relationships with funders, commissioners, consortium partners and strategic collaborators.

• Lead account management for key partners to support long‑term growth and mutual value creation.

BD leadership, systems and strategy

• Create, improve and maintain appropriate BD systems, processes and tools, including pipelines, trackers and lessons‑learned approaches.

• Contribute to organisational strategy and planning and, in particular, to fundraising strategy and external affairs.

• Create and monitor BD metrics, reporting on feedback and recommending appropriate courses of action.

• Manage a repository of BD data and information, including track record, capacity statements, boilerplate bid sections, etc.

• Champion The Young Foundation’s values, ensuring inclusive, ethical and community‑centred practice. 

Person specification  

Prior experience – essential  

• Substantial experience of leading/managing business development and income generation for a think tank or similar research/innovation led organisation. 

• Track record of securing income across a range of relevant funders through both competitive tenders and proactive approaches.

• Strong commercial acumen.

• Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills.

• Understanding of UK government and non-government sectoral funding landscapes.

• Strong network in the UK community and/or social innovation sector.

• Commitment to equity and social justice.

• Demonstrated collaborative approach to team-working – able to work effectively with colleagues with a range of specialisms and to operate effectively in a remote-first organisation. 

Prior experience - desirable 

• Experience with the introduction of CRM software.

• Familiarity with creating and reporting on BD metrics at Senior Leadership Team and/or Board level.

• Experience of/interest in exploring the impact of AI in business development and fundraising. 

• Familiarity and/or previous experience with The Young Foundation’s thematic areas (e.g,, community engagement, just transition, social innovation, young people, etc.). 

How to apply

Please apply directly via CharityJob, ensuring you complete the application form.

As part of your application, please include a cover letter addressing the following questions:

• Where do you see the greatest business development opportunities for The Young Foundation over the next 24 months? 

• In an increasingly competitive market, how would you seek to position The Young Foundation for opportunities, in light of the charity’s mission, purpose, vision and expertise? 

• What is your approach to building and strengthening positive relationships to drive income growth? 

The closing date for applications is 12:00pm on the 20th of April 2026 

The selection process will involve an interview and a presentation task.

Interviews are expected to take place w/c 4 May 2026 

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.

Policy and Public Affairs Officer – Shape the Future of Science and Policy

Join the Society as a Policy and Public Affairs Officer and play a pivotal role in placing physiology at the heart of evidence-based policy. This is a unique opportunity to influence public policy on key issues such as health, healthy ageing, and climate change, while supporting physiologists to lead in shaping the research and funding landscape.

What You’ll Do

• Develop and influence policy: Research, design, and advocate for evidence-based policies that advance physiology and its impact on society.

• Engage stakeholders: Build and maintain strong relationships with policymakers, parliamentarians, civil servants, and partner organisations.

• Communicate and advocate: Produce policy briefings, statements, and publications, leveraging digital platforms and member networks to share your work widely.

• Support the community: Work closely with committees, internal teams, and members to gather insights and ensure policies reflect the needs of the physiology community.

• Deliver impact: Organise events, track policy developments, and coordinate proactive projects that drive the Society’s objectives forward.

About You
You are a proactive, strategic thinker with a passion for policy and public affairs, ideally within science, health, or climate sectors. You have excellent communication and analytical skills, experience engaging with diverse stakeholders, and the ability to manage multiple projects while meeting deadlines.

Essential Requirements – Summary

• 1–3 years’ experience in policy, public affairs, government, agency, or related roles.

• Degree in life sciences, public policy, political science, or equivalent.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to translate complex information for different audiences.

• Experience developing and advocating policy positions, ideally in science, health, or climate sectors.

• Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.

• Strong organisational skills; able to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.

• Experience engaging with government, parliamentarians, and other stakeholders to influence policy.

• Able to work collaboratively across teams and independently when required

Why Join Us?

• Influence public policy at a national and international level.

• Collaborate with a passionate, expert team committed to advancing physiology.

• Be part of an inclusive, diverse, and forward-thinking organisation that values your perspective.

What we offer

• Excellent benefits including Private Medical Insurance and a generous pension scheme.
• Hybrid working - 2 anchor days in the office.
• A friendly team and bright offices based in the heart of Farringdon.

Applications
To apply, please ensure you download and review the attached job description. Applications are by way of an up to date CV and cover letter detailing why you are suitable for the role. 

We reserve the right to interview suitable candidates before the closing date and to hire if we are ready to before the closing date.

Please note: DO NOT APPLY if you do not have the legal right to work in the UK. We do not offer sponsorships.

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.

Assistant Diocesan Secretary
Based at the Diocesan Office, Rochester (with travel across the Diocese)
Full time (35hrs) | Salary from: £66,485

Are you an experienced senior leader who thrives in complex organisations and enjoys bringing clarity, coordination, and strategic oversight to challenging programmes of work?

The Diocese of Rochester is seeking an Assistant Diocesan Secretary to work closely with the Diocesan Secretary at a significant moment of transformation. Following successful investment through the Diocesan Investment Plan, the Diocese is delivering an ambitious programme of work to support the Called Together vision and strategy.

This is a key leadership role providing oversight of governance, risk, and organisational coordination, ensuring the effective delivery of strategic priorities across the Diocese.

About the Role

You will play a central role in supporting the Diocesan Secretary and senior colleagues in managing governance, risk, and organisational capacity. Your key responsibilities will include:

· Overseeing governance planning, ensuring effective scheduling and coordination of diocesan committees and boards

· Monitoring implementation of actions arising from governance bodies to support organisational delivery

· Leading on the maintenance and monitoring of the diocesan risk register

· Supporting the Diocesan Secretary in responding to national policy developments affecting diocesan functions

· Helping manage internal capacity and performance monitoring as programme activity expands

· Supporting preparation for General Synod and Bishops Council, including planning and correspondence

· Advising colleagues on responding to emerging national policy developments

· Representing the Diocesan Secretary in internal and external meetings when required

· Line managing the Head of Property and overseeing the work of the DAC, Surveyors, and Net Zero teams

About You

We’re looking for someone who:

· Has proven experience in a senior management role, ideally within a charity or values-led organisation

· Has strong governance, risk management, and organisational oversight skills

· Is highly organised and able to manage complex priorities and competing demands

· Has excellent interpersonal and communication skills and can work effectively across teams

· Is resilient, discreet, and able to approach challenges with a solution-focused mindset

· Understands and supports the aims and ethos of the Church of England

 It would also be helpful if you:

· Have experience working within the Church of England or a similarly complex organisation

· Are familiar with General Synod, Bishops Council, or equivalent governance structures

· Have experience supporting senior executives or board-level leadership

What we can offer:

• Flexible working and TOIL

• Generous holiday entitlement

• Contributory pension scheme

• Access to an Employee Assistance Programme and counselling service

The Diocese is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All post holders and volunteers are expected to share this commitment.

The wider a group’s diversity, the smarter, wiser, and more compassionate and creative its decision making becomes.
We are committed to achieving diversity throughout our Diocese by seeking UKME/GMH colleagues and those from a wide range of backgrounds, to help us create a culture of inclusion and belonging.

Closing date for applications: 26 April 2026

Interviews will be held on: TBC

Policy and Public Affairs Officer at the British Liver Trust  

Communications Team 

Building momentum, Changing lives 

The British Liver Trust is the UK’s leading charity supporting children and adults affected by liver disease and liver cancer. We advocate for improved prevention, early detection, and equitable access to care for all people affected by liver conditions across the UK. Liver disease is a public health emergency – it is the third leading cause of premature death in the UK, with deaths increasing by 400% over the past two generations. 

We believe that liver disease and liver cancer are at a tipping point. By taking bold action ourselves and with others, we will start to shift that balance and seize this moment. We are looking for an experienced policy officer to support us on this journey and to directly contribute to change.

This is an exciting time for the Trust as liver disease is increasingly being recognised as a priority by the NHS and we have recently launched our new organisation strategy.   

We are seeking a policy and public affairs professional to support existing work and support our advocacy with key stakeholders across the UK and to help improve outcomes and care for all liver disease patients.

The role  

• Run the Secretariat for the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Liver Disease and Liver Cancer

• Support our policy development, including supporting our consultation responses

• Help secure parliamentary debates and speakers, and provide tailored and impactful briefings 

• Coordinate political outreach to grow our pool of supportive MPs 

• Monitor and horizon scanning 

• Represent the Trust at external meetings to amplify our profile and policy messaging

• Work closely with colleagues in the communications, outreach, roadshow and fundraising teams to ensure policy is embedded across the Trust’s work. 

The postholder will have the opportunity to influence change and improve outcomes and services for liver disease and liver cancer patients. 

Policy and Public Affairs Officer 

Salary £32,000 – £35,500 per annum  

Full time 35 hours per week  

Home-based with regular access to London and occasional visits to Winchester (HQ).  

We offer a range of benefits for our employees, including: 

• Life assurance 4x your salary starting from date of employment 

• 5% employer pension contribution, rising to 7.5% at 15 months and 10% at 27 months service (optional on contribution increase) 

• Holiday buy-back scheme (up to 3 days per annum) 

• 25 days paid annual leave (FTE) 

• BUPA health cash-back scheme; money back on everyday healthcare costs, 24/7 health advice line, employee assist programme, mental health support & wellbeing resources 

• Cycle-to-work scheme 

• Contractual sick pay offering up to five weeks’ full pay, dependant on length of service to support employee wellbeing 

• 3 days additional gifted leave between Christmas and New Year 

If you would like to apply for the role, please send:

• a covering letter explaining how your experience, skills and knowledge make you suitable for the role, with particular relevance to the Job Description

• an up-to-date CV, including two referees

Closing date: 5pm on Friday the 10th of April 

Interviews: to be held on Tuesday the 21st of April 

Senior Policy and Influencing Manager

£42,385 - £44,615 (plus £4,250.69 London weighting if applicable)

Hybrid working across the UK, with regular travel to London needed and expected. 

Interviews to be held online, virtually on 16th April

The WEA is the UK’s largest voluntary sector provider of adult education, a charity dedicated to bringing high quality, professional education into the heart of communities.

We are looking for talented individuals to help us deliver our mission – to bring lifelong learning within reach fighting inequality and promoting social justice.

Job Description

WEA are looking for talented individuals to help us deliver our mission – to bring education within reach. If that sounds like you, then please read on! 

As the Senior Policy and Influencing Manager, you will lead our influencing strategy, helping us to raise the profile of lifelong learning in Whitehall and beyond, whilst enabling our movement to secure wins that bring learning within reach for 1000’s of adults.

Working across multiple policy areas, providing expert guidance to the Leadership Team, supporting them to engage with national and devolved public policy, and enable colleagues to bring their subject matter expertise to the fore. To support colleagues to engage with regional and local decision-makers, such as Mayoral Combined Authorities and Local Authorities.

You will play an instrumental role in driving our wider movement to advocate for lifelong learning, ensuring our campaigns are impactful, meaningful and engaging

As part of the Charitable Purpose Team, the Senior Policy Manager also has line management responsibility for the Research Specialist, ensuring a close fit between research projects and wider campaigning and influencing strategies.

We have attached the full role profile, that lists the key deliverables, performance measures and experience/qualifications needed for this role. Please take your time to read through this, and if you’d like to apply, hit that button!

We are working hard to create a workplace that reflects the communities we seek to serve and in which everyone feels empowered to be themselves and work together to drive positive change. We strongly encourage applicants from a diverse range of candidates and encourage everyone with the appropriate skills, experiences and potential to apply.

Should you need any support with your application, then please email us. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible

In our recent OFSTED inspection, we received a GOOD overall grade, with an OUTSTANDING rating for Behaviour and Attitudes and Personal Development.

You can read more about our benefits and what it’s like to work here, on our website

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.

Women’s Work is a National Award Winning Charity founded in 2003. We aim to deliver a holistic, person centred support service to vulnerable and disadvantaged women with complex health and social needs. We do this by ensuring they can access support, education and information to raise self-esteem and confidence, empowering them to make positive life choices resulting in improved health and wellbeing.

We are seeking a talented, motivated and highly organised Business Development Manager to join our Senior Management Team and play a key role in supporting the organisation’s growth, sustainability and financial resilience.

The Role

This is predominantly an office-based role working closely with the Finance Manager and under the guidance of the CEO, with a strong focus on:

• Bid writing, tender submissions, commissioning applications and grant funding
• Identifying, securing and managing new funding opportunities
• Supporting financial planning, allocation to funded projects
• Fundraising and promoting the charity in the local community

You will lead on the development and continuation of the project-specific funding, ensuring bids and applications align with Women’s Work’s strategic objectives and future expansion plans.

Working collaboratively with the Finance Manager, you will review funding streams, develop robust applications and contribute to the effective financial management of funded activities. You will liaise with businesses, statutory bodies, organisations, community groups and charities to identify and secure new income opportunities, partnerships and sponsorships.

Key Responsibilities

• Research, identify and secure new funding opportunities, grants and tenders
• Lead and co-ordinate high-quality bid writing, commissioning and tender submissions
• Support the Finance Manager with funding reviews, budgets and financial monitoring
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with funders, partners and stakeholders
• Contribute to organisational planning, sustainability and income diversification
• Ensure funding requirements, reporting and compliance are met
• Event planning/identify and co-ordinate fundraising opportunities

About You

The successful applicant will be self-motivated, detail-focused and high organized, with strong project management and communication skills. You will be able to work collaboratively while also managing competing priorities independently.

You will also be able to demonstrate:

• Proven experience in bid writing, tenders and/or commissioning
• A track record of pro-active business development, ideally within the charity or voluntary sector
• Strong relationship-building skills across multiple sectors
• Empathy and a clear commitment to Women’s Work values, aims and objectives

Additional Information
An Enhanced DBS check will be required.
Ref: BDM

Polka Theatre in Wimbledon seeks a Development & Events Manager to join our successful and welcoming team.

This is the role for you, if you:

· Would like to work for a pioneering national theatre for children.

· Enjoy planning and delivering fundraising events, which leverage immediate and ongoing support for the charity.

· Want to help a charity inspire supporters and build quality relationships with them, by telling the story of our impact.

· Are creative, personable, dynamic and great at communicating.

Polka is seeking a Development and Events Manager to coordinate Polka’s regular giving programmes, manage an established programme of events and oversee a committed portfolio of corporate supporters. As a key member of the Development Team, this is an exciting and rewarding opportunity to help shape Polka's future as a leading children's theatre. 

The Development and Events Manager will help donors feel inspired, appreciated, and compelled to support Polka. You will do this through high-quality communications and events for Polka’s donors, potential donors and corporate partners. The postholder will devise and coordinate a varied annual programme of stewardship and cultivation events and take a proactive role in attracting new supporters.

This is a permanent, full-time role. More details are in the recruitment pack on our website.

This role will suit candidates with fundraising experience, particularly with individual giving and events. We also welcome applications from people with transferable skills who can draw on their experience in other sectors. 

The role is primarily on site at Polka Theatre in Wimbledon, with up to 2 days working from home per week.

Polka's commitment as an equal opportunities employer means we are keen to encourage applications from people from the Global Majority, people across the gender spectrum and people who self-identify as disabled, who are underrepresented in our sector.

Polka is funded by Arts Council England, London, registered charity number 256979.

Change lives in a life-changing career

When a child or young person is diagnosed with cancer, their whole world can feel like it’s falling apart. Independence is taken and confidence is stolen. Stability no longer exists. The future suddenly feels uncertain.

The impact of cancer on young lives is more than medical. And that impact can be felt by entire family. That’s why we exist. Our specialist social workers help children and young people with cancer and their families navigate the emotional and practical impact of cancer.

We remove barriers, solve problems and prioritise wellbeing. And we stop at nothing to make their voices heard and their unique needs understood, so they can get the right care and support at the right time

About the role

We’re looking for a Policy and Public Affairs Manager with experience in delivering high-impact, voice-led policy, public affairs and campaigning work to join our Policy and Influencing team.

We have a growing and ambitious commitment to creating positive change in the health and care system to achieve the change children and young people with cancer, and their families, need across the UK. This means amplifying the voices of young cancer patients and delivering evidence-based campaigns that make change happen.

The Policy and Public Affairs Manager is responsible for ensuring our policy and influencing work has maximum impact through our public affairs and campaigning across the UK. This work will be co-created with children and young people at every appropriate opportunity. Building relationships is a crucial part of your role and you will support the Head of Policy and Influencing to deliver Young Lives vs Cancer’s policy, influencing and voice work to be sector leading and develop a range of external relationships to inform our work in this area.

Our Policy, Influencing and Voice Team build the evidence base we need to develop sound policy positions, works to influence the system for children and young people with cancer and their families, so we can change experiences of having cancer and ensure children and young people’s voices are heard. The team is a part of the Innovation, Policy and Systems Change Directorate, which synthesises our policy, research, campaigning, voice, innovation and systems change work.

This role is subject to a criminal record check. In the event of a successful application a basic criminal record check will be completed. A previous conviction is not necessarily a barrier to employment. We encourage qualified applicants to apply, and we will consider each case individually.

What will I be doing?

No two days are the same at Young Lives vs Cancer. So, summarising your ‘day to day’ isn’t easy. Here are some of the main things you’ll be doing, but you’ll find more details in the job description.

• Monitoring and analysing developments and trends in policy affecting children and young people with cancer, to identify relevant policy issues across the UK at an early stage and to advise on and help shape the charity’s response and public position.
• Working with colleagues across the team to develop policy positions that are relevant, up to date and can be used to support wider campaigning and influencing activities to engage our supporters, across health, social care, benefits and welfare reform, education issues and other relevant issues.
• Planning, managing and implementing public affairs plans and engagement based on policy priorities and effectiveness, liaising with external partners and coalitions, including designing and delivering our proactive engagement with elected representatives, monitoring the public affairs environment and co-ordinating reactive and proactive activities across the UK.
• Delivering a campaigns programme which builds on are previous successes, ensuring our campaigns and public affairs programmes work alongside with and alongside children, young people and families.
• Working with the Head of Policy and Influencing to support Young Lives vs Cancer’s engagement, communications and influence with policymakers, elected representatives and other key stakeholders.
• Developing external partnerships and networks to strengthen policy and public affairs activity

What do I need? 

The key skills we’re looking for in this role are:

• Ability to deliver strategic policy and public affairs activity based on robust evidence, from development to evaluation.
• Successfully influence politicians and key decision-makers to achieve strategic goals at different levels of government, through managing the delivery of successful public affairs campaigns
• Overseeing work that involves beneficiaries in policy and influencing work, demonstrate effective influencing skills
• Awareness and understanding of and/or experience of working in the policy issues facing young people with cancer across all four UK nations, and the wider policy and influencing and/or campaigning landscape
• Demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills at a variety of levels to a wide range of audiences, in particular a political audience
• Be an organised, systematic and a confident worker - managing a fast paced and reactive workload alongside longer-term strategic work whilst demonstrating attention to detail and accuracy

What will I gain?

For people to reach their full potential, they need the right environment. As a member of Team Young Lives, you’ll be made to feel supported, valued and appreciated. Here’s how we do it:

• Flexible working: we’re open to working hours outside of 9 - 5 and we can talk through your flexibility requirements at interview stage
• Wellbeing, Thinking & Growth Days: four days a year to to step back from the day-to-day and focus on your own learning and development
• Generous annual leave allowance
• Great family/caring leave entitlements
• Enhanced pension
• Access to our employee savings scheme

To find out more about our benefits package, have a look on our website.

Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

At Young Lives vs Cancer, we recognise that opportunities for too many people remain a condition of their sex, ethnicity, class, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation – or a combination. This has never been acceptable to us as an organisation. We don’t just accept difference, we value it, celebrate it, nurture it and we thrive because of it.

We’re on a journey to be reflective of the diverse children, young people and families we support. We know we aren’t there yet, and we’re passionately committed to taking actions and making changes to be a truly diverse, inclusive and equitable organisation. This includes taking anti-oppressive action and removing barriers in our recruitment practices. We particularly welcome applications from members of minoritised communities. Our Diversity, Inclusion, Equity and Belonging strategy will tell you more.

To ensure fairness and consistency to select the best candidate for this role, all our applications are anonymised up until an interview has been confirmed. We recognise the benefits of AI, but if you're considering using it to submit your application, we encourage you to reflect on the value AI adds. AI tools often lack the personal touch and authenticity that set candidates apart. We want to hear your unique perspective, experiences, and skills, so we encourage you to tell us about your skills and experiences in your own voice.

Accessibility

We’re committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and we’ll always aim to be as accommodating as possible.Please let us know in your application form of any adjustments or access requirements we could make to help you with the application process and interview.

#ShowTheSalary #NonGraduatesWelcome

Head of Policy and Public Affairs

Bring your energy, creativity and expertise - and help us impact young people positively.

Location: Sherborne House, London (hybrid)

Salary: £52,535 per annum

Closing Date: 29 March, 2026

Employment Type: Permanent

Hours per week: 37.5

About the Role

Step into a role where your policy expertise drives real change. As Head of Policy and Public Affairs, you’ll lead an ambitious strategy to influence national decision‑makers, shape legislation and ensure the voices of people affected by homelessness are impossible to ignore. You’ll turn insight into impact, championing our values while strengthening our political presence and public profile

You’ll build powerful relationships across Westminster, Whitehall and the wider sector, producing sharp briefings, commissioning research and delivering high‑profile events that elevate Depaul’s influence. Confident in the media and skilled at simplifying complex issues, you’ll work across teams to anticipate policy change, spark innovation and help drive forward our mission to end homelessness. If you’re driven, strategic and ready to make national change happen, this is your platform.

Key deliverables:

• Develop organisational policy positions on key strategic issues for Depaul UK, focusing on policy areas that matter for our client group including homelessness, housing, welfare, health and care leavers.

• Working with the Director of Development and External Affairs to deliver a multi-year policy and public affairs strategy, you will own its delivery, having demonstrable impact on policy through influencing legislation, as well as securing funding and commitments from the government .

• Work with the Executive Director of Fundraising and Communications and their team to improve Depaul’s public profile by giving us a louder political voice.

• Work with the Executive Director of Operations and their team to ensure Depaul is well positioned to respond to changes in policy and regulation.

• Work in partnership with Depaul UK’s Head of Data and Insights on research projects designed to influence policy.

• Monitor, analyse and report on policy developments which may impact on the work of Depaul UK.

• Provide high quality written and verbal briefings, reports and submissions to consultations.

• Work with senior colleagues to develop positive relationships for Depaul UK with ministers, senior officials, elected Mayors, Parliamentarians and with other policy influencers including our peers in the homeless sector.

• Ensure that the voices and experiences of clients are heard and understood to improve and change services delivered by Depaul, commissioners and policy makers.

• Give interviews to the media.

• Organise and coordinate events and meetings.

• Strengthen Depaul’s links with other voluntary sector organisations in the homelessness, youth and faith sectors.

• Contribute to Depaul International’s global influencing work.

What we are looking for from you (Person Specification)

When completing your application form please address all the areas below. Try to provide clear examples in your supporting statement that clarify how and when you gained the experience or knowledge as well as your level of capability.

To carry out this role we are looking for the following from you in terms of qualifications, experience, skills and competencies:

Knowledge

• Strong knowledge of the homelessness sector and policy context is desirable but not essential, it is essential that you have developed strong, specialist knowledge of a UK policy area or areas.

Experience and skills

• Having had demonstrable impact on government policy.

• Developing and maintaining positive relationships with Parliamentarians and officials

• Organising or helping to organise events, it is desirable but not essential that you have organised events in Parliament

• Leading projects with colleagues from different internal or external teams

• Delivering high quality verbal and written policy briefings and presentations to senior stakeholders

• Working with colleagues to secure media coverage

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to work on own initiative and with low levels of supervision

• Ability to prioritise key tasks and manage conflicting priorities

• Ability to deliver to deadlines, sometimes at short notice

• Desirable - drafting and delivering policy and/or public affairs plans/strategies

• Desirable - representing organisations in the media and at events

You will need to be able to travel throughout the UK and on occasions work out of hours.

You believe in people — their strengths, their rights and their potential. You bring empathy, energy and a solution‑focused mindset to your work. You communicate clearly, stay organised and adapt well in a fast‑moving environment. You’re committed to inclusion, fairness and continuous learning, and you turn values into meaningful action, whatever your role.

What You’ll Receive

• Tailored training and development
• Flexible working options where suitable
• 26 days annual leave, rising with service
• Family‑friendly leave policies
• Pension scheme with employer contributions up to 7%
• Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 GP access
• Discounts across retail, travel, food, fitness and more
• Cash health plan for you and your family
• Death‑in‑service benefit
• Access to legal and practical support

Safer Recruitment

Depaul UK is committed to fair and inclusive recruitment, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. If a role requires it under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975, we will carry out the appropriate Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check. We only look at information that is relevant to the role, and a criminal record will never be treated as an automatic barrier to employment. All DBS information is handled sensitively, confidentially and in line with the DBS Code of Practice, and we encourage applicants to discuss any concerns with us openly.

About Depaul UK

In the 1980s, high unemployment and steep inflation was contributing to a shocking rise in youth homelessness across London. Thousands of young people were sleeping rough every night, with many areas notoriously dubbed “cardboard cities” due to the visible rise in street homelessness. Appalled by the scenes playing out across the capital, a group of people came together to tackle the challenge head on. Led by Cardinal Basil Hume and Mark McGreevy OBE, in 1989 Depaul UK was born.

What began as a single housing project in North London soon expanded across London, Greater Manchester and the North East of England. Today, Depaul UK provides accommodation, prevention and support services to thousands of marginalised young people across the UK each year.

As our name suggests, the work of Depaul UK has been inspired by St. Vincent de Paul – a man who devoted his life to helping vast numbers of people throughout the 17th century. St. Vincent de Paul’s belief in the intrinsic worth of all people and his commitment to taking bold action remain central to our values today. Depaul UK now forms part of a family of Depaul charities around the world. We each focus on the specific challenges in our own countries, but we’re united by our shared values and mission to end homelessness.

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

• Area of work: Policy - Clinical Informatics and data
• Contract type: 3-yearfixed term (with potential extension)
• Employment type: Part-time(2 days per week / equivalent to 4 GP sessions)
• Salary: £48,517.12 (Annual take-home equivalent for 16 hours per week)
• Location: Hybrid - approx. 1 day per week in London office; the remaining time remote
• Start date: ASAP
• Closing date: 7 April 2026
• Benefits: Comprehensive package including flexible working, professional development, wellbeing support, and active staff networks

Overview
This isa high-impact opportunity for a qualified GP with stronginterest or experience in digital health, data policy, and clinical informaticsto shape national policy and support the future of data and digitaltransformation in general practice.
As Clinical Lead forData and Digital, you will provide authoritative clinical insight across a wideportfolio of digital, data, AI and informatics work. You will help ensurepolicy positions, guidance, research activity and external communications are groundedin credible, current clinical expertise.
You will play avisible role, advising on national policy proposals, supporting specialistinterest groups, contributing to research programmes (including major datapartnerships), and helping strengthen digital capability and confidence acrossthe GP workforce.

What You'll Be Doing
Policy Influence & Clinical Insight

• Provide expert clinical leadership on digital and data policy affecting general practice.
• Conduct horizon scanning on emerging issues (e.g., AI, voice technology in consultation rooms, data handling challenges, interoperability).
• Shape organisational positions across campaigns, policy and external communications.
• Represent the College at national committees including the Joint GP IT Committee (RCGP-BMA).
• Advise and challenge government proposals relating to NHS digital and data reforms.
• Engage with specialist interest groups (Health Informatics SIG, AI SIG), helping prioritise activity within realistic resource constraints.
• Support devolved nation teams on UK-wide policy consultations.

Guidance, Education & WorkforceCapability

• Help develop guidance, resources, and e-learning on digital, data and AI issues.
• Identify capability gaps among GP members and advise on relevant training needs.
• Ensure digital and data content aligns with educational and CPD priorities across the College.

Research, Data Use & Innovation

• Provide expertise to research programmes using GP data, ensuring ethical, regulatory and professional compliance.
• Support the nationally significant Research and Surveillance Centre, including work with the University of Oxford.
• Promote trust, transparency and confidence in the use of GP data for research and surveillance.
• Advise on evaluating and scaling digital innovations in general practice.

About the Team
You will join acollaborative, multidisciplinary policy and professional team working closelywith experts across:

• policy and public affairs
• research and innovation
• education and CPD
• clinical leadership
• specialist interest groups

What We're Looking For
Essential

• Qualified GP (GMC registered and in good standing).
• Experience in health informatics, digital projects, or data-related work in general practice.
• Strong stakeholder engagement experience.
• Good understanding of UK health data policy, GDPR, and relevant regulatory frameworks.
• Ability to interpret and communicate complex information clearly, including supporting data visualisation.
• Strong interpersonal skills, diplomacy and communication.
• Ability to work independently and prioritise effectively with limited time and resources.

Desirable

• Postgraduate qualification in informatics or equivalent experience.
• Experience developing clinical guidance or educational resources.
• Experience working on regional or national digital health initiatives (NHS England, ICBs, ALBs, think tanks, etc.).

Person Specification

• Collaborative and supportive team member.
• Flexible and responsive to changing priorities.
• Motivated by improving patient care through digital transformation.
• Analytical thinker with strong attention to detail.
• Confident in representing clinical perspectives internally and externally.

Additional Information

• 2 days per week = 4 clinical sessions.
• Hybrid working: typically 1 day a week in London, 1 day remote (flexibility available).
• Mixture of internal meetings (policy team, clinicians, SIGs) and external engagement (BMA, NHS bodies, committees).

Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk