Policy development jobs

Are you a values-driven leader who can bring rigour, clarity, and inspiration to complex systems of governance and performance?

Willen Hospice is seeking an exceptional Head of Governance, Performance & Improvement to shape and deliver the frameworks that will strengthen our resilience, accountability, and impact.

This is a pivotal opportunity to lead on corporate governance, policy and compliance, project oversight, and quality assurance—ensuring our hospice operates with the highest standards of transparency and effectiveness. More than that, you will champion a culture of continuous improvement, harnessing data and evidence to drive smarter decision-making, better outcomes, and long-term sustainability.

As part of our senior leadership team, you will not only safeguard the organisation’s integrity but also enable innovation and transformation—helping us to deliver outstanding care today, while preparing confidently for the challenges of tomorrow.

 What you’ll do:

✅ Lead the integration of governance and performance frameworks that underpin safe and effective care. 

✅ Develop systems to support high-quality project delivery and continuous improvement. 

✅ Work closely with the Director of Income Operations and Governance to bridge strategy and operational delivery. 

✅ Provide assurance to the Board of Trustees and sub-committees through timely, transparent reporting and compliance. 

What you’ll need:

You will be a strategic, detail-orientated leader with substantial experience in governance and performance. You will bring a proven track record of building and embedding frameworks that drive assurance, improvement and innovation. Skilled at aligning policy, data and delivery with organisational strategy, you will also be an excellent communicator – able to engage stakeholders at all levels and translate insight into meaningful action. 

 Who we are:

Set in the tranquil grounds of Willen Lake, Willen Hospice is the leading provider of specialist palliative care in the Milton Keynes area. We offer round-the-clock, expert care to local patients with a life-limiting illness, both in their own homes and in our In-Patient Unit. Our passionate staff and volunteers make sure our care is personalised to each patient’s needs and supports their loved ones too. We have a thriving Therapeutic & Wellbeing service providing counselling, physiotherapy, activity groups and more, and a specialist Lymphoedema service. As a registered charity, we raise vital funds through our dedicated Business Development team and our growing portfolio of high street and online shops, to ensure our care stays free of charge.

Why join us?

• A role with purpose – contribute to exceptional palliative care.
• Supportive and caring environment – work with passionate, like minded-colleagues.
• Great benefits package – including 35 days' holiday, contributory pension scheme, enhanced maternity/sick pay, and ongoing professional development.
• Perks and extras – free parking, subsidised catering, Blue Light Card discounts (with membership), and access to our Employee Assistance Programme.

Bring your strategic vision, your commitment to excellence, and your ability to deliver results. Together, we will build a future where every member of our community can access outstanding end-of-life care.

Hybrid working considered following a period of Induction.

For an informal conversation, please contact Margaret Dovies, Executive PA

Closing date: 1st October

Interview date: 9th October

About Impetus

Our vision is for a society where all young people, regardless of their background, can thrive in school, secure crucial qualifications, and take their first steps into the world of work on the journey to sustained employment in adulthood, for a fulfilling life.

As a leading impact funder, since 2002, Impetus has been helping the best leaders build stronger organisations delivering the most promising interventions that support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to succeed against the odds. We do this by using our deep expertise and high calibre networks to give the best non-profits the essential ingredients to have a real and lasting impact, through a powerful combination of long-term funding, direct capacity building support from our experienced team and our pro bono partners, alongside research and policy influencing to drive lasting systems change.

We tackle the three most difficult challenges that affect a young person’s ability to succeed in life in Britain today:
• Lost learning through absence, suspensions, exclusions from school.
• Stagnation in education attainment outcomes, which means many are missing out on key qualifications like GCSE English and maths.
• The large numbers of young people out of education, training and employment.

These are challenges that are faced by all young people, but they disproportionately affect young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, rigorous, determined, creative and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our charity partners and the young people we serve.

Impetus is a registered charity and our charity number is 1152262.

About the role

Are you passionate about giving all young people the best chance in life? Are you a brilliant influencer and communicator who relishes harnessing great policy, research and communications to realise social change? Do you want to work in a pioneering charity with impact at its core?

Then this could be the role for you. At Impetus we are looking for our next Director of Public Affairs, someone who can inspire our brilliant Public Affairs team and spearhead our communications, policy and research work. This is an exciting senior role, joining our Senior Management Team and working alongside our CEO, board, donors, supporters, portfolio partners and the wider sector to effect real change for young people.

This is an exciting time to join Impetus. We are at an inflexion point, having welcomed a new CEO this year and implementing a new strategy focusing on strengthening and expanding our impact and influence. A big part of that is through our public affairs and communications work; whether influencing policy makers so that all young people regardless of background get the best possible chance to succeed, reducing the gaps in education and employment between young people from disadvantaged backgrounds and their better off peers, or working with government and other funders to prove and expand impactful programmes or communicating our findings, insights and message to a wider range of audiences.

The Director of Public Affairs will work with the CEO and Senior Management Team to raise our profile and influence policy, unlock and steward resource and build new partnerships, in order to facilitate growth in impact. They will do this by getting the most out of our high performing Public Affairs team, which covers policy, research, advocacy and communications - as well as working across teams and with the Board to ensure Impetus is well positioned externally.

We’re proud of the work we’ve achieved to date, developing a strong track record of high-quality research and insightful reports, significantly raising our profile through media relations and stakeholder engagement, building strong sector partnerships and coalitions to drive meaningful change, establishing a wide range of relationships across government and the sector and building strong expertise in the team. We’re delighted that you’re considering joining us to take forward this work to the next level.

Here are some examples of the types of work that the Public Affairs team delivers:
• Our monthly policy newsletter, Impetus Insights
• Our news and commentary and blogs
• Our latest research reports on school engagement, attainment and youth employment
• Our coalitions: The Youth Employment Group and Who is Losing Learning?

For more information on what we’re looking for from our Director of Public Affairs & what a typical week can look like – please view the Director of Public Affairs recruitment pack.

Key responsibilities

Fundraising and income generation

• Work with Impetus CEO and SMT to support the delivery of the Impetus strategy and business plan and deliver the public affairs milestones to time and within budget.
• Champion and contribute to embedding equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) across all areas of Impetus' work, ensuring that EDI principles related to Impetus’ mission are reflected in advocacy, stakeholder engagement, communications and public positioning.
• Vision setting and strong line management of the Public Affairs team, developing their capabilities, representing the team at SMT and to the Board and ensuring it continues to make a valuable - and valued - contribution to the achievement of Impetus’s objectives, through building and implementing high quality work plans for the team and ensuring the wider Impetus team is aligned on these.
• Increase awareness, understanding and trust in Impetus among key stakeholders, through regular, thoughtful engagement with the sector and securing high profile media coverage.
• Raise awareness of the education and employment gaps faced by young people from disadvantaged backgrounds and what we can do to break down the barriers they face - through research, policy positioning and effective communications.
• Build a positive reputation for Impetus in government and parliament and among funders, as a source of expertise on how to improve the education and employment outcomes of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds and as a trusted interlocutor and partner, building on and leveraging the many relationships already established.
• Ensure that all advocacy is supported by high quality research and evidence, with our policy and research agenda well aligned to supporting the delivery of Impetus’ strategy.
• Ensure a positive media profile, continuing to build on the base established to build awareness among the media of Impetus’s expertise and content.
• Position Impetus as a ‘sought-after’ collaborative partner for other organisations with shared objectives; including regularly representing Impetus at relevant sector events.
• Support the delivery of our fundraising strategy and the successful delivery of our events programme, in particular, our flagship Transforming Lives Dinner.
• Where appropriate, collaborate with our portfolio partners to support their public affairs work and to leverage relevant partnerships, drawing on their insights to inform Impetus’ work.
• Contribute to the successful performance of the Senior Management Team, and provide expert advice to them, as well as to Trustees, on all public affairs-related activities and in the implementation of the broader strategy, engaging with decisions and challenges across the organisation.
• Oversee the running of our Public Affairs Committee (PAC), leveraging their skills, expertise and influence for the good of Impetus.

Personal specification

Essential

• A commitment to Impetus’ mission
• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
• Experience of leading public affairs / communications / policy at a senior level
  Strong track record of influencing (through policy, advocacy, communications, stakeholder relations)
• Strong management skills including strategy development, people management, budgeting and impact monitoring
• Experience of leading multiple and complex workstreams to achieve measurable results
• Experience of representing an organisation externally; in meetings, media interviews and on public platforms
• Exceptional verbal and written communications skills
• Presence, credibility, motivational skills, natural ability to command respect based on experience, and ability to look beyond own area of expertise
• Proven experience of building and maintaining influential external relationships and strategic partnerships
• Ability to motivate a team and work collaboratively, enlisting support from others
• Knowledge of the education and/ or young people sectors

Desirable:

• Experience of fundraising, including trusts and foundations
• Knowledge of digital communications
• Experience of data management and good analytical skills
• Understanding of, and/or lived experience of, the barriers that young people face, that contribute to the education and employment gap
• Knowledge of venture philanthropy / impact management
• Knowledge of private equity and associated industries

Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

We want our team at Impetus to represent the diversity of the people and communities we serve. We also want our team to be one where different experiences, expertise and perspectives are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to grow and develop.

We want to reach a diverse pool of candidates. We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that potential employees may need to in order to be successful.

We recognise the importance of a good work/life balance. We do everything we can to accommodate flexible working, including working from home, working part-time job shares and other arrangements.

Please just let us know in your application or at any stage throughout the process (and beyond) if these are options you’d like to explore.

Impetus is an equal opportunity employer and is determined to ensure that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation. We value diversity and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds.

How to apply

Please click here to apply.

You will need to:

• Upload a comprehensive CV and supporting statement.
• We will also share our equal opportunities form which must also be completed.

The supporting statement should be no more than two sides of A4 and should address the criteria in the person specification.

You should also include the contact details of two referees, one of whom must be your current or most recent employer. Referees will only be approached with your express permission.

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

The deadline for applications is 11:59pm, Sunday 12th October 2025.

Interviews

First round interviews will take place: w/c 20th/27th October 2025.

Second round interviews will take place: w/c 3rd November 2025.

You will also be required to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the UK.

Personal Data

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

Head of the Children and Young People’s Mental Health Coalition
(Hosted by Centre for Mental Health)

We are seeking an outstanding Senior Leader to become Head of our small staff team which drives the growth and influence of the Children and Young People’s Mental Health Coalition. This is an exciting opportunity to influence positive change at a time of significant policy and political developments.

As Head of the Coalition, you will lead its policy and influencing activity. You will work closely with coalition members to develop policy positions informed by the latest and most robust evidence, ensuring a strong and credible voice. You will campaign to influence government policy on children and young people’s mental health, build strong relationships with senior stakeholders, and ensure the Coalition’s voice is heard across Westminster, Whitehall and in the media.

With over 400 members nationwide, the Coalition has significant potential to expand its impact. Many members already influence locally through NHS Integrated Care Boards, councils and MPs, but need support and coordination to amplify their voices. You will help them do so.

We are looking for someone with exceptional project management skills to help shape and deliver our influencing goals, while clearly demonstrating our impact. Most importantly, you will bring passion and commitment to improving the mental health of babies, children and young people.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for the Coalition, which is hosted by Centre for Mental Health, delivering its objectives and vision.
• Set priorities in consultation with the Chair, the Centre’s Associate Director for Policy, and Coalition members.
• Design and deliver policy-influencing and campaigning projects with staff, members, children and young people and partners.
• Lead income generation for the Coalition with the Centre’s Associate Director for Business Development, managing relationships with funders, undertaking necessary reporting, and building connections for future prospects.
• Manage and develop the Coalition’s staff team.
• Grow the Coalition’s online presence, ensuring social media and web content is high quality, up to date, engaging and strategically aligned with influencing goals.
• Support and coordinate the Steering Group, ensuring it is active, representative of the Coalition’s breadth and effective in guiding the Coalition’s strategic direction.

The closing date for applications is Sunday 5 October, 23:59

Worldwide Veterinary Service is searching for a People and Policy Officer to support the growth of our charity.

This is an ideal role for an experienced administrator who wants to help make lasting improvements to the lives of animals around the world.

Reporting to the Director of Policy at global animal welfare charity, Worldwide Veterinary Service (WVS), you will support development and implementation of the charity’s processes and policies. This role combines different areas of internal policy, risk management and governance support, ideal for someone who enjoys working with people to improve systems and deliver tangible results. We are growing and we need your help to maintain a dynamic culture that encourages innovation, is an exciting and rewarding place to work and delivers the biggest possible impact for the animals that we help.

We need someone who is ambitious, driven and wants the opportunity to make a difference by building core infrastructure at a rapidly growing charity.  As an organisation we are embracing hybrid working, but applicants should be aware that there is an expectation that this role will require significant time on site at our UK offices in Dorset and Cornwall.

About Us

At Worldwide Veterinary Service (WVS) we champion animal welfare around the world. We send vets where they are needed most, provide expert veterinary training in hard-to-reach places, and ship urgent aid supplies worldwide, every day of the year.

We deploy teams of vets and vet nurses, send equipment and supplies to help struggling organisations on the front line of animal welfare, and train vets at our international training centres in India, Thailand, Malawi and the Galápagos Islands.  We also work on strategic one health projects such as rabies elimination campaigns with Governments and NGOs all over the world.

Last year, WVS treated over 103,000 animals, trained over 2,800 vets, deployed teams of vets all over the world, and sent over 1,042 parcels of veterinary supplies to 231 charities in 65 countries. Over 1.2 m dogs were vaccinated against rabies last year as part of our Mission Rabies campaign.

Main Duties & Responsibilities

 Policy and Governance

• Assist with organisation of trustee meetings.
• Maintain up-to-date records of policies, procedures, and statutory documentation.
• Support compliance with Charity Commission requirements.
• Coordinate risk management processes, policy reviews and ensure timely updates and dissemination.
• Work closely with colleagues to provide technical advice and ease the implementation of policies at WVS projects around the world.
• Support audits in the UK and of international affiliates.
• Liaise with trustees and external partners to support governance processes.

People

• Support recruitment processes across teams including advertising, and onboarding.
• Maintain accurate and confidential staff and volunteer records in line with GDPR.
• Support uniform induction for staff and volunteers to maintain culture during a period of rapid growth.
• Assist with the effective communication and implementation of policies and procedures.

General

• Any Other duties as required

Essential Skills & Experience

•  2 + years’ experience in HR or governance administration.
• Excellent organisational and communication skills.
• Ability to manage sensitive information with discretion.
• A strong team player.
• A passion for animal welfare.
• Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office and the use of other programmes or AI agents to improve the efficiency of organisational administration.
• Understanding of charity sector and compliance requirements.
• Qualified to degree level or with a relevant recognised qualification.
• Self-motivated and proactive.
• Diligent with excellent attention to detail.
• The right to work in the UK.
• Proficiency in English.
• A full drivers’ licence.

 Desired Skills & Experience

•  Experience of working with diverse teams in low resource environments.
• Experience working in rapidly growing organisations.
• Knowledge of employment, safeguarding and/or charity law.
• CIPD, ICSA or similar qualification (or working towards)

We are recruiting a policy and communications officer to join our small and growing team. The role will combine policy, analysis, communications, and programme support functions. We are therefore looking for applicants keen to work across a range of tasks, in a small organisation where flexibility and adaptability is important.

About the Centre for Crime and Justice Studies

At the Centre for Crime and Justice Studies, we bring people together to challenge conventional thinking on justice, spark fresh ideas, and develop real solutions to issues that matter.

Our vision is of a fair, effective and accountable justice system, in a society less dominated by criminalisation and punishment, because it has developed better ways of preventing and addressing the problems of crime. We prize intellectual openness, and a willingness to engage with difficult questions and challenging ideas. We welcome and encourage scrutiny of our work and are comfortable with the uncertainty that comes from not always having the answer. We recognise the importance of building solidarity and common cause, and reject superficial divisiveness and purity politics.

Our work combines a general programme of educational activities including events with an in-depth programme, focusing on areas of injustice and public interest, such as Imprisonment for Public Protection and joint enterprise laws. If this sounds like your kind of organisation, we’d love to receive your application.

Key duties for this role include:

· Researching and creating engaging content – from written reports to digital media.

· Coordinating, reviewing, editing and correcting written material produced by others.

· Keeping abreast of developments in relevant policy and practice areas and communicating these with others.

· Developing effective relationships with relevant policy makers and opinion formers, advocacy and campaign groups, researchers and academics, policy and practice organisations.

· Managing and creating content for the Centre’s website, social media feeds and eBulletins.

· Assisting in the production of the Centre’s programme of events and publications.

Why join us?

· 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays

· Flexible hybrid working. We put a high value on face-to-face work and collaboration though in office work and offer the flexibilty to work from home up to two days a week. 

· 8% employer pension contribution

· A supportive, collaborative, team culture. 

· Opportunities to work with and communicate interesting and impactful ideas

Apply for the role

For more information, including a job description and person specification, please see attached application pack. To apply, visit our website via the redirect button below for an application form. 

Deadline for completed applications: 5pm Friday, 19 September 2025. Interviews to be held Monday, 29 September at our Vauxhall office.

No agencies please.

Unfortunately, we are not able to offer visa sponsorship, so applicants will need to have the right to work in the UK.

What is the opportunity

Balance is seeking a persuasive and positive role model to work with its leadership team and trustees to shape our quality and commercial development. The Quality and Development Manager will occupy a key role in supporting our growth, sustaining our quality standards and growing commercial and income generating activity.

This post is also regarded as development opportunity for a candidate looking to be part of the charity's long term succession strategy for middle and senior managers.

About your values and strengths

You are someone who strenths and values will align with the following attributes:

• You can think on your feet and are consistantly able to bring ideas to the table
• You understand the tension between quality and cost and how to resolve them
• You are able to build alliances and relationships that have sustainable benefits to the charity and its work
• You can exhibit confidence in your colleagues and mobilise their skills and knowledge to drive our quality standards
• You see problems as opportunities and a gateway to new ways of delivering our services and business development

What you can expect from us

• A charity that works hard to put its people, those who it supports and those who provide its services at the heart of what we do.
• A charity that takes its mission and values seriously in developing its services, operational approach and commercial relationships
• That supports and encourages its staff to participate as partners in our development as a business, our outcomes and the delivery of our values.

You can also expect

• A commitment to training and professional development to support internal progression in and beyond the charity.
• Inclusion in and a 3% employers contribution to the charity's pension scheme.
• Generous annual leave allowance of 25 days a year plus bank holidays and an additional day off for your birthday.
• Access to a range of discount schemes including Blue Light Card
• Access to the charity's employee assistance programme.
• Access to travel card loan, and bike to work scheme.

Are you eager to make a difference in health and care but don’t know how to get started? Do you want to learn how policy is made, how senior leaders are influenced, and how research drives change?

We’re looking for a Policy and Research Intern to join our Policy and Influence team for nine months. This is a unique chance to take your first step on the policy career ladder – no prior policy experience required.

In this role, you’ll be right at the centre of our work with senior nursing and midwifery leaders. Yes, you’ll support the team with essential admin and communications, but this internship is about so much more than that. You’ll help deliver high-profile events like webinars and roundtables, track and report on member benefits, and contribute to live policy and research projects that shape the future of the NHS and wider system.

We don’t expect you to arrive knowing it all. What matters is your enthusiasm for FNF’s mission, your willingness to learn, and your drive to get stuck in. In return, you’ll gain hands-on experience, work alongside senior stakeholders, and build the skills and confidence to take the next step in your career.

What we’re looking for:

• A genuine interest in health policy and influencing
• Strong organisational and communication skills
• Someone proactive, flexible, and ready to muck in
• A team player who wants to learn and grow
• Demonstrable evidence of how you have lived FNF’s values

This is a nine-month paid internship (at the National Living Wage), with plenty of flexibility and hybrid working. You can join us part-time (three days a week) or full-time — whichever works best for you.

If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves, learn by doing, and kick start your career in health policy and influencing, we’d love to hear from you. You’ll be part of a dynamic, ambitious team that’s making a real difference — and excited to have you on the journey with us.

We believe in the importance and value of our colleagues. Our Colleague Experience Manager is a vital role at Starlight, prioritising our colleagues, their experience at work, their wellbeing, health & safety, and aspirations. We listen carefully to our colleagues to understand what matters to them at work and are committed to developing and growing the environment that will enable our colleagues to be their best. You will thrive on responsibilities from policy, process and administration to supporting Learning & Development and our Moments That Matter people strategy.

Contract Type: Maternity Cover for 12 months

Assessment Centre: 9th of October in our Manchester centre

Are you ready to make a real impact on the lives of young people? Do you thrive in a collaborative environment where every day is a chance to make a difference? If so, we have the perfect opportunity for you!

At The King's Trust, we're on a mission to empower our young people to reach their full potential. And right now, we're on the lookout for someone who's as passionate about this mission as we are. If you're up for the challenge, join our team as a Youth Development Lead, and let's make a real difference together. As a Youth Development Lead, you'll be the driving force behind our Development Award Programmes. These programs are all about giving young people aged 16-30 the boost they need to enhance their skills, find their path in education, training, or employment, and build a brighter future. It's not just a job; it's an opportunity to be a mentor, a guide, and a champion of change.

You'll work closely with our Outreach and Marketing colleagues and our customer service centre to ensure that young people are not only safely recruited but also engaged effectively. Your teamwork will be the driving force behind our mission.

If you've got a knack for staying organised and thriving in a fast-paced environment, this role could be perfect for you! Picture yourself as a catalyst for change, making a real impact on the lives of young people as they navigate their way through education, training, and work. Additionally, it presents an excellent opportunity for Youth Development Leads to foster meaningful connections with local colleges and organisations.

We’re also a massive advocate of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion so it would be amazing if you could lead the charge in creating an environment where everyone feels seen, by implementing a local action plan that supports our big-picture EDI goals. Let's make positive change happen!

If you feel you are flexible and someone who is ready to step in wherever needed within The Trust, including deputising as necessary in activities relevant to your area of responsibility, you could be just what we are looking for.

If you're a passionate advocate for young people, have an eye for detail, and a knack for turning challenges into opportunities, we want to hear from you.

What happens next?  

Please submit a CV, and Cover Letter that includes your experience, transferrable skills and motivation to work for The King's Trust! The Team will be in touch about the next steps shortly after the closing date. 

Why do we need Youth Development Leads? 

Last year, we helped more than 40,000 Young People, with every three in four moving into a positive outcome for either work, education or training. Youth Development Leads play a crucial role in supporting young people, no matter the young person's background or current circumstances, to fulfil their full potential. We want to continue having a positive impact on young people’s lives and we couldn’t do this without the important work of Youth Development Leads! 

Perks for working at The Trust! 

• Great holiday package! 30 days annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays. Office closure on the days between Christmas and New Year 
• Flexible working! Unless the location of the role is remote, the Youth Development Lead role requires a combination of office days and working from home. 
• You can volunteer for and/or attend events – The King's Trust Awards, Pride, active events etc. 
• In-house learning platform! Develop your skills for your career and your role 
• Benefits platform! Everything from health and financial well-being support to discounts on your favourite restaurants, shops and cinemas. 
• Personal development opportunities through our Networks – KT CAN (Cultural Awareness Network), KT GEN (Gender Equality Network), KT DAWN (Disability & Wellbeing Network), and PULSE (LGBTQIA+ Network). 
• Fantastic Family leave! Receive 13 weeks of full pay and 13 weeks of half pay for maternity and adoption leave. Receive 8 weeks of full pay for paternity leave. 
• Interest-free season ticket loans 
• Cycle-to-Work Scheme
• The Trust will contribute 5% of your salary to the Trust Pension Scheme 
• Generous life assurance cover (4 x annual salary) 

Job Title: Policy and Impact Officer

Location: Home working with some travel 

Contract Type: Permanent

Hours: 35 hours per week

Salary: £24,000pa 

DBS/PVG: Not required

Job Family: 3

Line Manager: Head of Policy and Impact

Closing Date:  30th September 2025 We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications

Start Date: asap

Interview Dates: 23 October 2025

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications

Who we are

At Volunteering Matters, we believe people have the power to create change. Whether through volunteering by helping others and giving time, or through social action such as speaking up, campaigning, or leading change, everyone can make a difference. We bring people together to build stronger communities across England, Scotland and Wales, making sure everyone has the chance to get involved and create real change.

What we do

We help people of all ages and backgrounds get involved in volunteering and social action. We focus on making sure that everyone, no matter their situation, has the chance to take part. 

How we do this

We support people to share their time and skills to help others and tackle big challenges in their communities.

• We remove barriers to volunteering and social action, making it easier for people who don’t always get the chance to take part.

• We listen to and amplify voices that aren’t always heard, helping volunteers and communities influence change.

• We help volunteers beyond their first experience, offering training, support, and pathways to new opportunities.

• We connect businesses with communities, creating meaningful employee volunteering projects.

• We show the impact of volunteering and social action, proving how it changes lives for the better.

Our promise to volunteers

We are always looking for new ways for volunteers to make a difference. We bring people together across generations and backgrounds to learn from each other and create change. At the same time, we make sure that all our volunteers are trained, supported, and valued, so they feel confident in what they do.

Role Purpose

The Policy and Impact Team sits at the heart of Volunteering Matters. We play a vital role in demonstrating the impact of our work connecting data, qualitative insight, and lived experience to the policy agendas shaping communities across the UK. Through storytelling, analysis, and evidence, we make sure volunteering is recognised as a driving force for social change.

We are a small, hands-on team. You will be involved in every aspect of our work from desk-based research and writing briefings to organising external meetings and working directly in communities alongside our volunteers. This variety allows you to connect national policy with local realities and help volunteers share their voices where it matters most.

 You will help bring our five-year strategy to life by linking project outcomes to broader societal developments and showcasing the impact of volunteers and communities.

Key Duties Responsibilities

· Support the Head of Policy and Impact to coordinate Volunteering Matters’ policy and public affairs work.

· Support people involved with our volunteering projects to engage with local politicians, e.g. by organising visits to projects or meetings with volunteers. 

· Monitor and respond to opportunities (e.g. relevant government consultations, All-Party Parliamentary Group inquiries or Select Committee inquiries) that are relevant to Volunteering Matters’ priorities.

· Support mapping and research exercises to inform our policy positioning. Writing summary reports as needed.

· Collaborate with the National Volunteer Engagement Manager to support the inclusion of volunteer and community voices in our policy and public affairs work.

· Assist with collecting impact and activity data from across the charity and work with the Data Analyst to undertake analysis.

· Support with routine collection of quarterly data from projects - ensuring responses are timely and accurate, providing guidance to project managers as needed.

· Work with project staff to help create impactful and engaging reports.

· Represent Volunteering Matters at charity and volunteering policy-related groups. 

 Essential Skills

· Understanding of UK political systems and policy-making processes across national, devolved, and local levels.

· Understanding of policy, public affairs, or influencing, ideally within the voluntary or community sector.

· Confident communicator, able to engage with policymakers, sector partners, and community representatives.

· Familiarity with both qualitative and quantitative data analysis to inform narrative reporting and strategic insight.

· Excellent writing skills, with the ability to craft clear, persuasive documents based on data and lived experience.

· Alignment with Volunteering Matters’ values and a commitment to amplifying community voice.

· Must adhere to the organisation’s Code of Conduct and uphold its values at all times.

· Proficient in Microsoft 365, particularly Outlook, Teams, Word, and Excel, with the ability to manage email communications and collaborate digitally.

· Able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team, managing time and priorities in a busy environment.

· For remote roles, candidates must be self-starters who can work with minimal supervision, stay organised, and remain motivated to meet deadlines and deliver quality outcomes.

· Attention to detail and a proactive approach to problem-solving and information sharing.

Experience Required

No specific experience is required.

Qualifications

Relevant skills and values alignment is more important for this role than specific qualifications.

Our Values & Way of Working

In all that we do we are guided by our values: Empowering, Inclusive, Compassionate, Positive & Straightforward.

Disability Confident & Reasonable Adjustments

We guarantee to interview anyone with a disability whose application meets the essential criteria for the role. Please provide evidence in your application, which demonstrates that you meet the level of competence required in the Job Description under skill and experience. To be considered for a guaranteed interview or to discuss any reasonable adjustments during the process, please state this in your cover letter.

GDPR Statement

If you apply for a role with us, we will retain your contact details including your name, address, email address and phone number to help us manage your application for up to six months.  We will not use your personal data for any other purpose or share it with any third party. You can contact us at any point to update your personal information or ask us to delete it from our records.

Policy on AI-Generated Applications 

Applications are accepted on trust, and we expect all submissions to reflect the applicant’s own words, experiences, and motivations. While tools such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) may support the application process, applications should not be generated wholly by AI. 

To Apply

Please send an updated, complete CV and cover letter via the Charity Job Apply button above. In your application clearly state which role you are applying for. In the cover letter please demonstrate how you would fulfil the role requirements, what previous relevant achievements you have (both in life and at work), what skills & experience you can offer, and what you believe you can contribute to Volunteering Matters.

Please note that all applicants must have the right to work in the UK. Unfortunately, we’re unable to progress applications that don’t meet this requirement. 

If you have any questions about current vacancies, the recruitment process, or need support, our team is here to help. Whether you're a candidate looking for more information or with an HR query, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Are you passionate about making a difference in your community? Do you thrive on engaging with diverse groups and driving positive change? Are you ready for an adventure in advocacy? We are currently looking for a User Voice Community Development Worker to join our dynamic and passionate team in Hertfordshire. Immerse yourself in a role that makes a real difference!

As a User Voice Community Development Worker, you will primarily be office. You’ll be providing a regular range of innovative and creative activities that will improve confidence and empower people with a learning disability to get involved with ‘Speaking up or Self-Advocacy’ opportunities in the East of the County. You’ll also run community engagement sessions/events/outreach in each district that will feed into the Learning Disability Co-production Board. Additionally, you will be creating activity schedules offering a range of varied activities to maximise uptake and running four quarterly engagement sessions held in each district per year (25 in total) with unique individuals attending being reported on.

In addition to working as a User Voice Community Development Worker, you will also split your role to work as an Independent Advocate, providing crucial support to vulnerable adults facing significant health and social care challenges. We are seeking a passionate and skilled Independent Advocate to join our team. This role focuses on providing advocacy for individuals under the Mental Capacity Act (MCA), the Mental Health Act (MHA), and supporting NHS complaints and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS), Care Act processes.

Your role will involve delivering persuasive verbal and written representations on behalf of clients, collaborating with public and voluntary organisations, and taking focused actions to address client issues. This role demands flexibility, excellent communication, and the ability to handle sensitive information confidently.

Pohwer is dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being of individuals in care settings, hospitals and the community . We are seeking a passionate and skilled Independent Advocate to join our team. This role focuses on providing advocacy for individuals under the Mental Capacity Act (MCA), the Mental Health Act (MHA), and supporting NHS complaints and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) processes.

Hours of Work: Full-time: 37 hours per week, between Monday to Friday, 9 am – 5 pm

(This role will be split into 3 days User Voice Community Development & 2 days as an independent advocate. We will also consider applications for part time positions.)

Location: Home based with travel around the county. 

(Applicants have a full driver’s licence and access to their own transport)

Salary: Total salary £24,755.76 Per Annum split between the 2 positions as follows:

User Voice Community Development Worker £15,058.80 (Full Time Equivalent Salary – £25098.00 per annum)

Independent advocate £9696.96 (Full Time Equivalent Salary – £24,242.40 per annum)

Contract Type: Fixed term 3 years

User Voice Development Worker/Independent Advocate Requirements:

1. Proven experience of working with people with learning disabilities, mental health, dementia etc.
2. Experience community engagement including running events.
3. Strong networking skills with the ability to build relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.
4. Excellent communications skills, able to communicate sensitively and empathetically.
5. Experience providing written reports to a high standard.
6. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and trust with people
7. A Good understanding and experience with IT software packages.
8. Full UK driving licence and access to your own transport, with geographical knowledge of the local area.

Benefits:

1. 25 days annual leave + Bank holiday (Rising to 30 days after 5 years’ service) with the option to buy or sell up to 5 days leave + your birthday off as an additional holiday day after 1 years’ service!
2. Discretionary shutdown days at Christmas with up to 4 additional days leave.
3. 1 Community Leave Day per annum.
4. Cash Wellbeing Healthcare Plan which covers Optical/dental/alternative therapy and more!
5. Auto enrolment Pension plan
6. Death in service cover.
7. Bike to work scheme.

Meet the Organisation: Who We Are and What We Do

POhWER stands for People and Organisations Working in Equal Rights. We are dedicated to empowering and supporting adults with multiple vulnerabilities, promoting their rights to have a voice and exercise choice in the services they receive. With a strong presence in communities across the UK, our team is committed to providing high-quality advocacy services that make a lasting impact. We are dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being of individuals in care settings and the community

If you think you are suitable for this Community Development Worker/Independent advocate role, don’t wait, – apply now! Take the first step to joining an organisation that values your passion and skills and make a genuine difference in your community.

Closing Date: 9AM, Monday 22nd September 2025 (We reserve the right to close this vacancy early)

Interview Date: TBC (Via Teams)

An Enhanced DBS check and National Offender Management Service vetting will be conducted for this position.

We’re proud to support our colleagues from the armed forces signing the Armed Forces Covenant in August 2024.

POhWER is an equal opportunities employer, holder of the Investors in People Silver award, and a member of the MINDFUL EMPLOYER scheme. We are a level 2 Disability confidence scheme employer, and disabled applicants who meet all the essential criteria will be guaranteed an interview.

POhWER is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities, and particularly welcome candidates from groups currently underrepresented in our workforce. Our goal is to foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute. This includes, but is not limited to, people with disabilities, women, men, Black, Asian and other racially minoritised people, LGBTQ+ who are currently under-represented in our workforce.

To help embed inclusion for all, from day one, we offer a range of family friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements and employee networks to support people from different backgrounds.

The Woodland Trust is looking for a Lead Policy Advocate - Climate and Nature Finance to drive our advocacy on green finance and ecosystem service markets. Green finance is an emerging priority for UK and devolved governments, and this role provides the opportunity to shape and promote high integrity and high impact approaches for woods and trees.

The Role:

• Influence public policy and market frameworks by working closely with government, regulators, corporate partners and the wider conservation sector.
• Provide expert insight into emerging nature markets and finance models that support the Trust’s strategic and income-generating goals.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with senior leaders, corporate stakeholders and voluntary sector partners to extend the Trust’s policy influence.
• Represent the Trust in external forums, clearly communicating policy priorities in language that resonates with business and policy audiences.
• Monitor public policy developments across the UK, identifying risks, opportunities and informing internal teams accordingly.
• Support cross-organisational collaboration by responding to internal requests, managing external relationships, and adapting to evolving priorities.
• This is a hybrid role with travel to London, Cardiff, Edinburgh and to our Head Office in Grantham, once or twice a month.

The Candidate:

• You have an enthusiasm for the environment and share our core values-Grow Together, Explore, Focus and Make it Count
• Proven experience in policy and advocacy relating to green finance and ecosystem service markets, with a strong understanding of their role in environmental and conservation outcomes.
• Skilled in shaping and delivering policy goals through effective external advocacy and stakeholder engagement across public, private, and voluntary sectors.
• Confident communicator with the ability to influence and build credibility at senior levels and translate complex policy into compelling messages.
• Knowledge of UK policy landscapes, including devolved administrations, and how to tailor approaches accordingly.
• Collaborative and evidence-led, with experience aligning internal teams and expertise to support advocacy efforts.
• Educated to degree level or equivalent, with a commitment to continuous learning and willingness to travel across the UK as needed.

Benefits & Wellbeing: Joining our team means you'll be a big part of tackling environmental and climate issues. We take good care of our staff, offering support and training opportunities. We also offer:

• Enhanced Employer Pension
• Life Assurance
• Flexible & Hybrid Working Options
• Generous Annual Leave - 25 days + bank holidays (pro rata for part time)
• Buy and Sell Annual Leave
• Enhanced Parental Pay
• Employee Assistance Programme

About Us: The Woodland Trust is the UK's leading woodland conservation charity and is dedicated to creating a world where trees and woods thrive for both people and nature. Our mission involves engaging and inspiring individuals to contribute toward tackling the nature and climate crisis through the protection, restoration, and creation of essential woodland habitats.

Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion: To achieve our vision of a world where woods and trees thrive for people and nature, we need to better reflect society and the communities we work in. All people, no matter their background, identity, ability, or circumstance, should benefit from trees.

People of colour and disabled people are currently under-represented across the environment and conservation sector. If you identify as a person of colour and/or disabled, we particularly encourage you to apply.

Please contact us to discuss any additional support or adjustments you may need to complete your application.

Application Advice: For fairness we keep our candidates’ personal details hidden from the hiring managers, so they do not see your CV until shortlisting is completed.

Make sure that your Personal Statement clearly shows how your skills and knowledge link to the specifications in the job description and you share with us your passion for the role.

Acceptable Use Policy - Artificial Intelligence (AI): We understand that candidates may choose to use AI tools to support their job applications-for example, to help structure or edit written responses. We welcome the use of AI in this way, particularly where it helps improve accessibility, such as for neurodivergent applicants. However, we ask that any information submitted reflects your own experience, skills and understanding. During interviews, candidates are expected to respond independently without the use of AI tools.

Apply Now: If you're ready to make a difference and grow with us, send in your application today. We might close the job opening early if we get a lot of applications, so it's a good idea to apply soon. If we do close the advert early, and you have an application in process, we will email you prior to closing to give you time to complete.

Interviews will be held via Microsoft Teams on the following dates:

Wednesday 8th and Monday 13th October 2025

Location: Flexible with two days every fortnight in the Oxford Office
Department: Volunteering
Salary: £35,000 to £38,000 per annum (depending on experience) plus £2,500 car allowance
Hours: 35
Contract Type: Permanent

RABI is the farmers charity.

RABI supports farming people across England, Wales and NI with expert, one-to-one practical, financial and emotional help, all year round. From confidential advice and mental health support to direct financial assistance, their tailored services respond to the unique challenges of farming life.

At the heart of RABI’s mission is a commitment to strengthening resilience; helping farming people feel valued, supported and better equipped to navigate uncertainty and change. RABI is working to close the farming wellbeing gap and build a future where farming people can thrive.

Over the past 25 years alone, RABI has delivered almost £250 Million in direct financial support to the farming community, whilst the charity’s professional counselling service has provided 11,500 free sessions to farming people since 2022. RABI’s wrap-around support services continue to evolve, reaching more people year on year.

RABI is on a journey to help shape a future farmers deserve.

ROLE OVERVIEW:

This role is central to how we evolve our volunteering offer. The Volunteering Development Lead is responsible for designing and working with other teams to pilot new models of volunteering that help us reach more people, increase flexibility, and create meaningful opportunities for individuals to contribute in ways that suit them.

Working at the intersection of innovation, collaboration, and project delivery, the role will lead on developing new opportunities for volunteer involvement, creating training materials, and building internal capability to support new ways of volunteering. The post-holder will act as a connector across teams, identifying where volunteers can add value and supporting colleagues to confidently engage them. It’s a dynamic role that requires creativity, people skills, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

This role involves occasional travel and overnight stays to attend events, meetings.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Design and develop new types of volunteering opportunities, ensuring they are accessible, purposeful, and meet both organisational and volunteer needs. Works closely with the Volunteering Experience Lead and Coordinator to ensure new roles are integrated and supported.
• Lead volunteering development projects, managing timelines, stakeholders, and outcomes to deliver high-quality results.
• Work closely with teams across the charity to identify where and how volunteers can be better utilised and supported.
• Develop and deliver training resources for new volunteering roles and approaches, supporting staff and volunteer leads.
• Champion inclusive and innovative volunteer practices, inspiring teams to adopt new ways of involving people.
• Embed good volunteer management principles across the organisation, building confidence and consistency in approach.

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Maintain strong relationships with internal teams, ensuring alignment across departments.
• Take a proactive role in team meetings, agenda setting, and action tracking.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety policies and other regulatory requirements.
• Engage in continuous professional development through training and feedback.
• Represent RABI at events and outreach initiatives.
• Support team operations during absences and assist with additional tasks as needed.

PERSON SPECIFICIATION:

Essential

• Affinity, understanding and demonstration of the goals and objectives of RABI
• Experience designing and delivering new volunteer roles or programmes.
• Strong knowledge of volunteer management best practice and safeguarding.
• Skilled collaborator, able to build relationships and influence across teams.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to lead multiple priorities.
• Creative thinker with a solutions-focused approach to challenges.
• Confident communicator with excellent written and verbal skills.
• Experience designing and delivering training or workshops.
• Good understanding of inclusive and accessible volunteering practice.
• Knowledge of volunteer management best practice and safeguarding.
• Able to use data, feedback, or insight to improve services.
• Experience supporting change or innovation projects in a charity or community setting.
• Good digital literacy, including MS Office and CRM/volunteer platforms.
• Willingness and ability to travel occasionally, including overnight stays.

Desirable

• Experience using CRM or volunteer management systems.
• Understanding of rural or community-based volunteering.
• Experience involving people with lived experience in service development.
• Experience supporting organisational or cultural change.
• A full UK driving licence, as travel within England and Wales will be required.

This role profile is not exhaustive and is subject to review in conjunction with the post holder according to future developments at RABI.

Benefits

• Enrolment to Nest on commencement of employment and then opportunity to join RABI’s group pension scheme with Standard Life where RABI make contributions equivalent to 10% of your basic salary, provided you make a personal contribution of 5%.
• Life assurance from day one.
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme.

RABI is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and aims to ensure that all employment practices secure equality of opportunity and that no prospective or current employee receives less than favourable treatment at RABI because of their sex, sexual orientation, age, race, religion, belief, ethnic origin, disability, marital, or for any other reason which cannot be shown to be justifiable. Our recruitment process strives to ensure that individuals are selected only based on their relevant skills, experience, qualifications, and abilities.

REF-223 995

We're looking for an organised, confident and resilient Senior Information Governance Officer to join our Performance Team located at our Head Office in Islington.

£42,000.00 per annum, working 35 hours per week.

Want to feel like you have an exciting future? You'll feel at home here.
Making you feel at home here means helping you thrive in every way. That's why we offer a wide range of benefits, award-winning Learning & Development and a culture that welcomes all. These aren't token gestures - we've thought long and hard about how best to support our team. After all, our people are doing something amazing: helping to transform lives every day.

Our benefits include:
* Annual leave increasing up to 30 days with length of service
* Free DBS
* Exclusive discounts and cashback via Reward Gateway® and opportunity to buy a Blue Light Card
* Fully paid induction programme and further training
* ILM courses and Apprenticeship Programmes
* Cycle to work scheme
All applicants must be legally eligible to work in the UK by the start of employment as Look Ahead are not able to offer sponsorship.

The role will be 7 hours per day, Monday to Friday.

Applicants should attach a cover letter to their CV that demonstrates how their skills and experience will meet our requirements and add value to the team. Please note: those who use AI to generate their covering letter will be rejected.

Interviews will be held between 8th and 10th October 2025.

We offer hybrid working with a minimum of two days per week based in the office.

What you'll do:
- Maintain and update the Look Ahead's Information Asset Register, RoPA and other key governance documentation.
- Support the Information Governance Manager in delivering the annual work programme and reporting to the Information Governance Group.
- Conduct audits and risk assessments of data processing activities and ensure appropriate controls are in place.
- Lead on the implementation and monitoring of information governance policies and procedures across the organisation.
- Monitor compliance with Look Ahead's IG policies and relevant legislation, escalating issues where necessary.

The postholder will
- Work in accordance with Look Ahead's Code of Conduct and equal opportunities policy
- Perform other reasonable duties commensurate with the role.

This is not an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time and is subject to change in accordance with the needs of Look Ahead

About you:
- Have effective communication skills and a positive approach
- Enjoy working as part of a small team but able to work on their own initiative
- Be willing to learn and keen to improve and embed robust IG processes throughout Look Ahead
- Be prepared to travel to different services to provide support and monitor compliance

What you'll bring:
Essential:
Skills
- Close attention to detail
- High level of accuracy in their literacy and numeracy
- Effective communication skills
- Good IT skills
- Ability to manage competing demands, prioritise and meet deadlines
- Ability to work on own initiative and exercise own judgment with discretion
Experience
- Previous information governance experience
- Handling data subject requests and applying exemptions when appropriate
- Managing personal data breaches
- Supporting managers to complete DPIAs or legitimate interests' assessments
- Experience of dealing with complex and confidential issues
- Developing and delivering information governance training
- Maintaining accurate records and logs

Desirable:
Skills
- Data Protection Practitioner qualification
- Evidence of continuous professional development
- Intermediate skills in MS Office applications e.g. Word, Excel, and PowerPoint

About us:
Look Ahead is a leading, not-for-profit care and support provider in London and the South East. Our vision is to build better lives through social care and housing in local communities. As an organisation we deliver over 100 services, providing support to thousands of customers each year. Our mission is to co-design and deliver services that offer innovative social care solutions and support people to thrive. We work across mental health, homelessness and complex needs, young people and care leavers and learning disabilities so there are plenty of opportunities to grow and progress your career with us.

We have a strong social purpose and we live and work by our values:

We focus on Excellence and innovation.
We are Caring and Compassionate.
We are Inclusive and Trusted.
We work in Partnership and are One-Team.

Look Ahead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk, and expects all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment.

If your application for this role is unsuccessful, but we feel that you would be suitable for another role, we may contact you to discuss alternative opportunities. If this occurs you would not need to submit another application for the alternative role.
We reserve the right to close this advert early if we are able to appoint to the vacancy before the advertised closed date.
We are committed to diversity and inclusion at work and are accredited with Silver in the Inclusive Employers Standard 2021. We are a proud member of the Employers Domestic Abuse Covenant and encourage applications from a diverse range of applicants of all backgrounds.

Please see our website for full Job description