Policy jobs

We are looking for an experienced and connected Policy and Public Affairs Adviser to lead the development of this function within the organisation. Reporting Directly to the CEO you will engage with teams and partners to design both an on-going influencing strategy and the future shape of this work in coming years.

Key Responsibilities:

· Undertake internal opportunities review to identify key work strands.

· Undertake external opportunities review to identify both short term and long-term areas for influence.

· Develop long term policy and influencing strategy in conjunction with the Senior Leadership Team (SLT).

· Review and recommend future staffing structure and reporting lines as part of the above.

· Act as lead for existing activity in this area including attending meetings with MPs, Peers and civil servant, working with internal teams to provide accurate briefing information and supporting other appropriate spokespeople across the organisation.

· Identify and Lead on the formulation of appropriate evidence-based policy positions and responses.

· Work with staff and our growing Public and Patient Network (PPN) to ensure those with lived experience have a meaningful voice in the above activity.

Key requirements:

Required:

• Experience of developing and delivering campaigns that include influencing and engaging with policy makers, MPs, Peers and other relevant stakeholders.
• Strong understanding of the legislative process in England (Scotland and Wales desirable).
• Ability to quickly develop effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Demonstrable ability of analysis of information that can be communicated to a variety of audiences.
• Experience of developing policy positions and briefings, along with responding to consultations.
• Ability to effectively manage competing interests and views to achieve the aims of the organisation.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Depending on location, this role will require regular travel to the Leeds Office and Westminster.

Desirable:

• Experience of working in a charity.

Personal Attributes:

• Strategic thinker
• Passionate about our cause and mission.
• Organised and reliable with a collaborative mindset.
• Open to feedback and committed to continuous improvement.

What We Offer:

• The opportunity to contribute to a respected national charity.
• A supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Professional development and learning opportunities.
• Flexible or hybrid working options (where applicable).
• Generous holiday allowance and staff benefits package.

Caritas Social Action Network

Policy and Public Affairs Officer (maternity leave)

Location: office in London, with mostly working from home, regular travel in England and Wales, and rare travel overseas.

Contract: full-time, to cover a team member’s maternity leave

Salary: £30,00

Closing date: Tuesday 26 May at 12 noon

Interview date: Thursday 11 June in person, in London

CSAN is the official agency of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference tackling the root causes of poverty and injustice affecting people who live in England and Wales. We’re facing a steep rise in poverty and significant pressures on social, economic and church resources. Currently, the Church is called to raise a prophetic voice against poverty and the rhetoric of division and work for the building of a more just society.

Over the last 20 years, CSAN has built up a network of 50 diocesan and direct service charities with a combined annual spend on social mission estimated at £400m, excluding the work of schools and religious congregations. Our members build up local community life in diverse ways, and many of them support individuals in difficulty, including with housing, prison and detention, social isolation, ill-health, violence, disability, employment, care, therapeutic and welfare support.

The key responsibilities of the post are:

1. To scan the social policy environment to capture developments in legislation, consultation papers and Bills relevant to the Caritas network for the purpose of comprehensive tracking and briefing.

2. To deliver an effective programme of Catholic advocacy and political campaigns that contributes to the common good, with particular attention to the priorities of the dignity of workers, child poverty, social care and end of life; supporting and connecting well with the team’s other activities, and where possible with the CSAN membership’s priorities,

3. To draft campaign and advocacy materials for the range of media channels used by CSAN and support the CEO in engaging with the press and approaches from campaigning organisations including contributing to CSAN’s social media networks.

4. To provide admin support and contribute to CSAN’s Alliances as required, especially the Advocacy Alliance and the Criminal Justice Alliance with information and education on policy and legislation.

5. To ensure that our advocacy is consistent with the Bishops’ understanding of the Church’s role in society and supports the priorities of the Bishops’ Conference, especially the Department for Social Justice.

6. To act as a conduit of information and communication between the Bishops’ Conference and the CSAN members, under the guidance of the CEO, assisting CBCEW where possible in gathering information and the lived experience of poverty.

7. To develop and contribute to practice materials for the network, especially in the areas of campaigning, advocacy, social policy and formation for mission.

8. To oversee monitoring of the Catholic press and relevant wider networks for relevant articles, developments and campaigns.

9. To support the general work of CSAN as required by the CEO, including leading in the development and organisation of the charity in specific areas subject to skills and experience.

The work of the small national team requires a high level of integrity and teamwork, respect for and capacity to navigate complex civil and church contexts at pace, and a stable commitment to personal formation and training. Our Policy and Public Affairs Officer (maternity leave) will bring a professional track record of relevant research and analysis, production of compelling communications, and diligent administration. A satisfactory basic DBS check and references are required.

CSAN is a member of Caritas Internationalis, one of the largest humanitarian networks in the world, with national agencies in over 160 countries, and among the most successful examples of organised Catholic social action in modern times.

The Ministry Development Team (MDT) is a team of 45 people which sits within the Archbishops' Council. We are nationally responsible for ensuring that there is a pipeline of lay and ordained ministers together with their terms of service and the development of future and current senior leaders to meet the missional needs of the church. As such we have a key role to play in the delivery of our national Vision and Strategy in which we aspire to be a church which is Jesus Christ shaped and centred.

Our work requires us to work collaboratively with a wide range of stake holders and partners including the 42 Church of England Dioceses, 20 Church of England Theological Colleges, the House and College of Bishops, the College of Cathedral Deans and the College of Archdeacons together with a range of universities and other external bodies. Our work is overseen by the Ministry Development Board, which is a subcommittee of the Archbishops' Council and is chaired by a Diocesan Bishop.

The Assistant Ministry Human Resources (HR) Policy Officer will play a key role in the life of the Ministry Development Team as we work together to support the mission and ministry of the Church of England by supporting the development of the ministerial terms of service and wellbeing portfolio. The post holder will be line managed by the Ministry HR Lead and work in collaboration with colleagues across the church especially in the MDT and HR teams.
The Ministry HR team are supported by the Advisory Group for Terms of service and Wellbeing of Ministers (AGTAWM). AGTAWM is chaired by the lead Bishop for ministerial terms of service and wellbeing, and is a subcommittee of the Ministry Development Board.

The Assistant Ministry Human Resources (HR) Policy Officer will be line managed by the Ministry HR Lead.
This is a fixed term role to back fill part of the Ministry Human Resources (HR) Policy Officer's role on a 0.5 FTE basis until the end of 2026.

Interviews will take on the 17th April 2026.

Are you a strategic, purpose-driven leader? Ready to shape policy, influence public discourse, and make a real impact? If this sounds exciting, then this could be the role and organisation for you! Day One is on an exciting journey of growth and expansion as we increase our impact and reach more people affected by serious and life changing injury. We are looking to recruit an experienced Head of Policy and Public Affairs to join our team who can shape and help lead the charity’s external positioning, policy engagement and thought leadership activity across the UK. You will work closely with the CEO, other Directors and Heads of Service to develop and execute a three-year plan to develop our voice, influence and reach. 

This is an exciting opportunity for someone committed to supporting the charity in its next phase of growth. Day One has always punched above its weight as a start-up charity, and now, into its fifth year of operation as a national charity, our voice is becoming more important than ever. 

Day One’s development has been fast-paced, roles broad, and the culture has fostered autonomy and flexibility in senior roles. As the needs of the organisation evolve, this remains important but it is also now essential that we build a team with the capability and capacity to carry out robust, longer term scoping and planning in order to implement our new strategy and to create further opportunity for influence around the impact, care and support needs of people affected by serious and life-changing injury. 

More About You 

You’ll be an ambitious, dynamic, politically astute changemaker with: 

Senior experience in public affairs, policy, or government relations. A strong record of delivering successful, outcome-driven campaigns. Excellent communication skills with a flair for impactful messaging. A collaborative, tenacious attitude and drive to make a difference. An established network and the credibility to influence. Willingness to travel as part of your role. 

What You Will Bring 

You might come from a charity, public sector or values-led organisation, or from a commercial role where people and purpose have been at the heart of your work. You may already have experience marketing services, campaigns or causes, or be ready for a step up with more ownership and responsibility. What matters most is your ability to work with empathy, bring ideas to life, and help people find, trust and access support when they need it most.

In your first six months, you will develop key relationships, scope the workplan and, in conjunction with colleagues, begin to build the evidence base needed for delivery of the ‘Voice’ element of our new strategy. 

You will use our flagship annual campaign - Major Trauma Awareness week (MTAW) as a platform for expansion of our voice and influence work. You will work closely with the Head of Lived Experienced and Social Research to ensure that we are able to develop a sound evidence base from which to grow our influence and reach. 

Beyond the first 6 months you will: 

• Design and begin to implement an impactful influencing plan, identifying horizon scanning opportunities to influence and raise our profile. 

• Utilise own assets and organisational assets, including the CEO, SLT and Heads of Service, to deliver this element of the new strategy. 

• You will build highly credible and impactful relationships with a variety of stakeholders. This will include policy makers in national and local government officials, politicians, the health and social care sector, clinicians specifically the trauma care and rehabilitation space, as well as other third sector organisations, think tanks and commercial organisations connected to recovery after serious and life-changing injury.

• Play a significant role internally and externally in communicating the organisation’s policy position, raising organisational brand.

• Work closely with others in the SLT and ELT on developing our thought leadership and translating this into published blogs and comment pieces yourself and for others - disseminating our shared ideas, evidence base and compelling stories of impact and recovery.

• Working closely with the Director of Income and Engagement, you will support their team’s expertise and credibility, helping them to generate income though speaking engagements, campaigns and key storytelling pieces. 

How to apply 

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

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

Closing date: 15th May 2026 

Interviews:  

First stage virtual: w/c 25th May 2026 

Second stage in-person (Leeds): w/c 1st June 2026 

The Ministry Development Team (MDT) is a team of 45 people which sits within the Archbishops' Council. We are nationally responsible for ensuring that there is a pipeline of lay and ordained ministers together with their terms of service and the development of future and current senior leaders to meet the missional needs of the church. As such we have a key role to play in the delivery of our national Vision and Strategy in which we aspire to be a church which is Jesus Christ shaped and centred.

Our work requires us to work collaboratively with a wide range of stake holders and partners including the 42 Church of England Dioceses, 20 Church of England Theological Colleges, the House and College of Bishops, the College of Cathedral Deans and the College of Archdeacons together with a range of universities and other external bodies. Our work is overseen by the Ministry Development Board, which is a subcommittee of the Archbishops' Council and is chaired by a Diocesan Bishop.

The Ministry Human Resources (HR) Policy Officer will play a key role in the life of the Ministry Development Team as we work together to support the mission and ministry of the Church of England by supporting the development of the ministerial terms of service and wellbeing portfolio. The post holder will be line managed by the Ministry HR Lead and work in collaboration with colleagues across the church especially in the MDT and HR teams.

The Ministry HR team are supported by the Advisory Group for Terms of Service and Wellbeing of Ministers (AGTAWM). AGTAWM is chaired by the lead Bishop for ministerial terms of service and wellbeing, and is a subcommittee of the Ministry Development Board.

Interviews will take place on the 22nd May 2026.

Location: Home based within commuting distance of either Edinburgh, Cardiff or Belfast 

Salary: £32,750 per annum
Hours: 35 hours per week 

Closing date: Monday 19 May 2026 at midnight 

Interview date: week commencing 25 May 2026 over video with possible second stage in person week commencing 1 June 2026 

This is a full time fixed-term position for one year (with possible extension subject to funding). 

Who we are looking for  

Breakthrough T1D is the UK’s leading type 1 diabetes charity, dedicated to funding research, advocating for change, and supporting the T1D community. A year into our exciting rebrand from JDRF to Breakthrough T1D, we’re looking for a Senior Policy and Public Affairs Officer – Devolved Nations to help us build on this momentum. 

The role of the Senior Policy and Public Affairs Officer - Devolved Nations is vital to achieving our UK-wide advocacy mission: to reduce health inequalities in type 1 diabetes, to widen access to type 1 diabetes treatments and technologies and to ensure that people with type 1 get access to emerging new treatments and future cures in the devolved nations.  

You will lead on projects with key stakeholders and high-level Parliamentarians, such as our access to treatments and early detection work, as well as people with type 1 diabetes, policy makers and researchers. You will help to deliver Breakthrough T1D’s influencing plans, improving access to and choice of type 1 diabetes treatments and technology in the devolved nations.  

Experience required 

• Experience of working successfully with politicians, their offices, Government departments, and other public affairs audiences to influence policy and to influence public/stakeholder discourse  

• Experience of leading public affairs delivery in one of more of the devolved nations  

• Experience in analysing Government policy in-depth and creating policy briefings   

• Experience of drafting briefings, reports and policy submissions   

• Experience of communicating across a range of parliamentary and professional stakeholders at all levels  

• Demonstrable knowledge, interest and experience of working in a public affairs and policy-based environment  

• Experience of organising stakeholder events  

About Breakthrough T1D 

Breakthrough T1D is the world’s leading charitable research funder into type 1 diabetes, improving lives until we find the cure. We are dedicated to our 400,000 strong type 1 community in the UK and work closely with our international affiliates across the world, including the US, Canada and Australia. 

You will find a vibrant atmosphere and spirited team at Breakthrough T1D, always striving to make a difference to people living with type 1. 

Employee benefits 

As an employer we offer: 

• Hybrid working arrangements 

• Flexible working and will consider compressed hours 

• Generous annual leave entitlement – 25 days per year plus bank holidays for full-time staff with leave increasing after three and five years’ service 

• Health cash plan that allows you to claim for some treatments such as dental, optical and physiotherapy treatment 

• Season ticket and cycle loan 

• Pension scheme 

• Family-friendly policies – maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave at enhanced rates 

• Personalised training to suit your career aspirations and professional development 

Breakthrough T1D is an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applications from all individuals regardless of race, gender, disability, religious belief, sexual orientation or age. 

We are recruiting a fixed-term Policy Campaigns Manager to lead our campaigns function at ARUK. The Policy Campaigns Manager will report to the Senior Public Affairs and Campaigns Manager and have line management responsibilities for the Policy Campaigns Officer.

In this role you will be joining a friendly and fast-moving Policy and Public Affairs team, during an exciting year for dementia research as we campaign on our core mission for a cure. You will work closely with colleagues across the organisation to oversee our active campaigns and identify opportunities to mobilise our supporters and drive influence and impact for and with people affected by dementia.

You will lead the development of the campaigns function for ARUK, building on existing initiatives, championing best practice in campaigns and building our reach and engagement. You will also be responsible for working across a range of functions including our policy, research, communications, digital, brand and volunteering teams.

This is a 12 month FTC or on return of the substantive postholder

Key Responsibilities:

Deliver our live campaigns and marshal our campaigner base to advocate for change in dementia research and for people affected by dementia

· Work with colleagues across research, policy and public affairs teams to develop and deliver our campaigns that mobilise people affected by dementia and our supporters to influence decision makers and change policy and practice

· Work with the policy managers to ensure that our campaigns align with our strategic priorities and theories of change

· Work closely with public affairs colleagues to plan campaign actions that align with key political influencing moments e.g. Budget; Spending Review; King’s speech; General Elections

Develop and deliver our campaign communications to grow the reach, influence and impact of our campaigns

· Lead the development and growth of our campaigner network, building supporter journeys, and producing compelling and creative campaigner communications across email, social media and other channels

· Work with colleagues across CRM and digital to improve data management, delivering regular reporting on campaign actions and use this data to enhance the campaigner experience and empower more people to take action. ​

· Work with colleagues across the organisation to build campaigning expertise and experience with local ARUK supporters and improve our reach with MPs in their constituencies

Line Manage our Policy Campaigns Officer

· Oversee the work of the policy campaigns officer including setting objectives and providing support to a range of workstreams.

· Consider the learning and development needs of the policy campaigns officer and ensure that they are able to grow and develop in their role. 

Involve people affected by dementia in campaigns development and delivery

· Identify campaign champions and storytellers with lived experience who can advocate for change

· Provide training and ongoing support to people with lived experience to empower them to take part in and shape our campaigns

Research, insight and continuous improvement

· Provide expert advice across the charity on campaigning, taking an open, flexible and innovative approach

· Develop mechanisms to keep abreast of best practice in campaigns and any legal or regulatory issues specifically around mental capacity and consent, data protection and lobbying etc

· Continue a campaigning culture across the organisation by being an ambassador for the benefits of campaigning and working with colleagues to showcase the opportunities and impact of our work.

Knowledge, skills and experience needed:

· Educated to A Level or equivalent 

· Experience of delivering successful national campaigns 

· Experience of building fruitful relationships with colleagues across organisations 

· Experience of developing impactful campaign strategies with clear policy rationale and creative tactics 

· Experience of writing compelling campaign communications 

· Experience of working with campaigners 

· Experience using CRM databases such as Raiser’s Edge and Salesforce and handling sensitive personal data 

· Line Management experience 

· Leadership experience at a management level 

· Experience of matrix working, across professional and operational boundaries 

Additional Information:

Ways of working:

As part of our Agile ways of working you will be required to work approximately 2 days a week from the office, which is subject to the requirements of the role and the business needs. Flexibility on where you work can be split between working from home and our office.

Roles that are classed as part of the Agile ways of working are not able to claim any costs for Mileage/Travel on Public Transport, Accommodation and/or Meals.  This includes when attending the office for various meetings/events.

Our Office: Our office is at 3 Riverside, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, CB21 6AD. 

Salary: Circa £44,000 per annum, plus benefits.

Please download the Vacancy Pack on our website for more information.

The closing date for applications is the 17th May 2026, with interviews being arranged once shortlisting has been completed. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date. We would encourage you to submit your application at the earliest opportunity, as on occasion we may have to bring forward the interview date and/or the closing date based on the needs of the business. Although a possibility, this will only happen in exceptional circumstances. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date.

We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential.  We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures, particularly from those in the global majority, those with disabilities, men and those from the LGBTQIA+ community. Any offer of employment is however subject to you having the right to work in the UK.

As part of our commitment to being an inclusive employer and ensuring fairness and consistency in our selection process, we will handle your CV and application with the utmost confidentiality. Should you require any adjustments at either the application or interview stage, please contact us via our website. 

How to apply: Please create an online account using our Online Recruitment Platform which can be accessed through our Job Vacancies page. You will be able to attach your CV to your application and track the status of your application.

About Alzheimer’s Research UK: Alzheimer's Research UK is the UK's leading dementia research charity. Our mission is to accelerate progress towards a cure.  Today 1 in 2 people will be impacted by dementia, either through caring for a loved one, developing it themselves or tragically both. But there is hope. 

About Us 

Yorkshire is one of the regions hardest hit by cancer. Together, we can change this.

Yorkshire Cancer Research is a charity dedicated to funding research so that you and those you love live longer healthier lives, free of cancer. 

Thanks to supporters, the charity funds vital cancer research and pioneers innovative new services for people with cancer. These life-giving medical breakthroughs are helping more people survive cancer – in Yorkshire, and beyond.

As an inclusive employer, our aim is to ensure our workforce reflects the rich diversity of our region. We believe a diverse workforce is vital to us taking action to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer more effectively in Yorkshire. We offer equal opportunities regardless of race, religion or belief, age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, marriage and civil partnerships. 

 
The Benefits 

We offer all employees a wide range of benefits including an enhanced contributory pension scheme, 25 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays (increasing to 30 days after 5 years’ service), flexible working arrangements, private medical insurance, enhanced maternity leave, career progression, learning and development, wellbeing initiatives, offices within walking distance of Hornbeam Park train station, free onsite parking and a whole lot more. 

We’ve got a strong set of values that inform everything we do and we’re looking for people who are aligned with these. As our Policy and Public Affairs Manager, you will put people in Yorkshire at the heart of everything you do, unite with colleagues and other organisations in this cause, and dare to think big and bold to make positive solutions happen. 

 
The Role 

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Policy and Public Affairs Manager to join our Research, Policy and Impact team. 

Supporting the Head of Cancer Insight, you will deliver, and keep under review the policy and public affairs strategy, including influencing at a local, regional, and national level, with the aim of helping the charity achieve its strategy and bringing benefit to the people of Yorkshire. You will have responsibility for the development of evidence-based policy reports and recommendations that can be used to influence a variety of audiences and project manage the development, delivery and evaluation of public affairs campaigns and events. As Policy and Public Affairs Manager, you will also act as a source of expertise across the organisation and externally on key policy areas and the wider policy environment.

Specifically, you will: 

Influencing 

• Support the further development, refinement and delivery of the charity’s policy and public affairsstrategy and impact evaluation process, to support the wider delivert of the charity’s strategic aims. 

• Oversee the development of insightful written materials and reports to aid influencing. 

• Lead the charity’s response to regional and national consultations relevant to cancer in Yorkshire, making a robust and evidence-based case for the charity’s position.

• Oversee the continued growth of the charity’s political monitoring work and ensure the effective pursuit of every opportunity offered. 

• Engage with regional and national decision makers to influence policy-making for the benefit of people in Yorkshire and beyond. 

• Build and strengthen relationships with key stakeholders across Yorkshire and beyond (such as DHSC, NHSE, Integrated Care Boards, Cancer Alliances, national policy groups, and other charities, to influence change based on policy recommendations.

• Evaluate the impact of policy and public affairs activity, with delivery of clear examples of external influencing.

Policy development 

• Ensure the continued development of the policy production and dissemination process, including the policy development pathway, internal/external dissemination and impact evaluation. 

• Lead the research, production and dissemination of high quality, evidence-based cancer-related policies and the strategic development of key policy recommendations. 

• Oversee regular updates of existing policies and position statements, ensuring they are in line with the latest evidence. 

• Ensure external insight is built into policies and policy development, such as gaining views from the Patient and Public Involvement Community, the inclusion of external patient and public contributors and endorsements from clinical and academic experts. 

• Oversee work with relevant internal teams to create key messages for a range of internal and external stakeholders, ensuring these are in line with the latest evidence and are used correctly, and provide expert commentary on media stories. 

• Act as a source of expertise on the charity’s cancer-related policies and position statements, both internally and externally. Undertake media interviews as required to communicate key messages with the public.

Campaigns and Events 

• Project manage the development, delivery and evaluation of public affairs campaigns, in collaboration with the Brand and Relationships team where relevant, manage relationships with third parties to support campaign delivery where required. 

• Lead the outreach and delivery of influencing events, including visits to charity-funded projects and party conference activity. 

• Further develop and deliver a strategy for growing and maintaining a handraiser supporter base, to enhance campaigns activity. 

 
About You 

To be considered for this role, you will need: 

• To have a degree, preferably in a relevant subject area, for example public policy, public health, scientific, medical etc. 

• To have significantl experience of writing influencing materials such as briefings, letters, blogs, campaign materials.

• To have substantial experience supporting the implementation of high impact public affairs strategies that are designed to influence.

• To have experience of evaluating campaigns and assessing the impact of policy and public affairs activities. 

• To have excellent public affairs experience including understanding of local, regional and national government, the current health policy landscape as well as knowledge of UK parliamentary processes along with a proven track-record of engaging politically to make change happen.

• To have substantial experience of developing evidence-based policies for a health focused organisation.

• To have substantial experience of communicating health policy positions to a variety of audiences including for influencing purposes.

• To have a good understanding of the health care system in England. 

• To be a strategic thinker with strong analytical, judgement and decision-making skills.

• To be able to sift out the essential elements from a mass of complex information, integrate and synthesise ideas, and present information to others in an accessible way.

• To have a pro-active and creative approach to policy work with an ability to identify and use external opportunities and a desire to succeed.

• To have excellent verbal, written communication and presentation skills with the ability to interpret complex information and communicate this to a range of audiences so it is clear and accessible.

• To have excellent organisational and time management skills with the ability to prioritise work, handle conflicting demands and meet tight deadlines with exceptional levels of accuracy maintained.

• To have strong management and leadership skills, with the ability to coach team members to encourage continued development and learning. 

• To have strong networking, influencing and relationship management skills, with the ability to inspire and influence others, as well as the confidence and personal authority to work with external organisations. 

Application 

Before applying, please visit our Careers Page to view the full role profile and find out more about working for Yorkshire Cancer Research.

To apply please submit a CV and cover letter outlining your suitability for the role to Claire Wooldridge, Head of People, before 14 May 2026. Please read our privacy notice before applying. 

Yorkshire Cancer Research is a responsible and flexible employer.We welcome any discussion for flexible working at the interview/offer stage where we will consider an individual’s circumstances against the needs of the charity. 

We positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates from all backgrounds. If we can make any reasonable adjustments to support your application please contact us. 

This is an exciting opportunity to work on the frontline of policy advocacy and development in child health. As Head of Policy and Research you'll be responsible for overseeing the development of our policy positions and all related outputs, as well as the research that underpins our campaigns and advocacy, across England, Scotland and abroad. You will be an integral thought partner to the Director of Strategy & Delivery and wider leadership team on the development of pioneering research concepts that will drive the child health agenda forward. You will be our internal technical expert on food policy, ensuring all of our work is evidence-based and impactful, as well as being our external representative, liaising with leading policy and research experts across academia, civil society, and government agencies. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

Research

• Work with the Director of Strategy & Delivery and Research Manager to plan research projects and support their delivery, ensuring they support policy calls and reflect young peoples’ experiences.

• Lead the translation of  Bite Back’s research into high quality outputs including reports, briefings and submissions.

• Work with campaigns, communications and content teams to turn research findings into high impact creative communications for a range of audiences.

• Serve as a primary spokesperson for our research including in media placements, speaking slots and government evidence sessions. 

Policy development

• Lead on the development of Bite Back’s policy positions in key and emerging areas, ensuring young peoples’ views and experiences are fed in at every stage.

• Lead the development of all policy outputs including submissions, consultation responses and briefings, ensuring they are evidence-based and reflect young peoples’ voices. 

• Lead the technical policy liaison with stakeholders and experts in the field to gather evidence and critically assess the Bite Back’s positions. 

Evidence

• Keep abreast of new evidence on key areas relating to nutrition, climate and health and consider the implications for Bite Back’s policy and relevant activity.

• Collaborate internally to provide knowledge and advice on policy and evidence issues with colleagues and the youth board.

• Review and sign off key outputs to ensure they reflect the latest evidence and data.

Stakeholder engagement

• Build and maintain relationships with a range of external stakeholders to support Bite Back’s influencing agenda, including with senior government policymakers, academia, WHO and other charities in England, Scotland, and abroad.

• Represent Bite Back on a range of alliances, coalitions and partnerships.

• Deputise for the Director of Strategy & Delivery when needed.

Leadership

• Line management of Research Manager and Impact & Evaluation manager, with a dotted line to the Policy & Engagement Executive and Senior Programmes & Policy Manager for Scotland.

• Operate as a member of the extended leadership team, collaborating with other Heads and the Directors to ensure research and policy considerations are embedded seamlessly into campaigns, communications and programmes.

• Lead the policy and research strategy development for Bite Back in new geographies, providing visionary technical leadership in how we expand to new countries across the UK and abroad.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

We will be looking for applications that demonstrate experience in at least some of these areas, and evidence of capacity to build skills in others. Please don’t be put off applying for one of our jobs because you can’t demonstrate every skill. If you're passionate and excited about working for us, and possess the main skills and experience we are looking for, go ahead and apply. You could be just what we are looking for!

Required: 

• Significant experience  of managing food policy work, which has informed and influenced national and local food policy in England. 

• In depth knowledge of the breadth of the food, nutrition and obesity public health landscape and the key challenges faced in the policy environment.

• Deep technical expertise in food policy research, development, and communication - with a strong focus on commercial determinants of health.

• Strong analytical skills, including a good understanding of quantitative and qualitative research methods, including creative implementation research techniques. and experience with commissioning external research.

• Ability to synthesise and utilise evidence to support policy development and influencing. 

• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, including ability to communicate complex issues.

• Calmness under pressure, with ability to prioritise multiple projects to agreed objectives and deadlines. 

• Line management experience.

• A passion for our mission and a commitment to our values: Fresh, Resilient, Respectful, Energetic, Real.

Desired: 

• Strong policy and research networks in the UK across academic, civil society, and government agencies. A trusted technical voice.

• Post graduate experience in public health or nutrition and/or evidence of continuing professional development of relevant knowledge and skills in the field. 

• Experience in working with young people.

• Experience with designing creative, outside the box research with fresh ways of influencing food policy change.

• Understanding and some experiencing working on food policy across devolved nations (Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland), and within other global contexts.

A core part of YoungMinds’ work is to ensure that young people have the power to influence government policy.

Your role will involve supporting YoungMinds’ public affairs work by promoting the charity’s policy priorities to parliamentarians, officials and other decision-makers.

This will involve writing briefings and developing relationships through meetings and ongoing engagement. You will also work with the youth engagement team to facilitate young people’s involvement in parliamentary meetings and other forums.

Your role will also involve developing policy positions in response to the issues affecting young people’s mental health, based on external evidence as well as YoungMinds’ own research and consultation with young people.

You will provide briefings to internal colleagues, including the senior leadership team, to ensure they are kept up-to-date on key policy issues and trends.

You will also work closely with media and campaign colleagues, to ensure that our messaging on policy issues is clear, accurate, and effective.

About the Institute of Alcohol Studies (IAS)

The Institute of Alcohol Studies (IAS) is an independent charity dedicated to reducing alcohol-related harm in the UK. We work to advance the use of the best available evidence in public policy, bridging the gap between research and decision-making on alcohol.

Alcohol harm is one of the most significant and preventable public health challenges facing the UK today. IAS works with parliamentarians, civil society organisations, researchers and the media to promote effective, evidence-based alcohol policy that improves health, reduces inequalities and supports communities.

Role summary

We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated Policy and Communications Support Officer to join our small but mighty team for a full-time, 12-month fixed-term contract.

This role offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience at the intersection of public health policy, communications and advocacy, working on one of the UK’s key social issues. The post holder will support IAS’s policy and communications work, helping us to progress our long-term vision for tackling alcohol harm.

The post-holder will report to the Head of External Affairs and will be mentored by the Assistant Manager, Policy and Communications, working closely with colleagues across the IAS team.

Contract details

• Contract: 12-month fixed-term contract, full-time (35 hours per week)
• Salary: £30,000
• Location: Hybrid working, split between the IAS office near London Bridge and home working
• Benefits:
  • 14.5% employer contribution pension scheme
  • 28 days’ annual leave (plus public holidays)
  • Life insurance and extended sick pay
  • Access to modern, charity co-working space
  • Opportunities for training and development

Key responsibilities

The Policy and Communications Support Officer will support a wide range of policy, parliamentary and communications activities, including:

• Policy and parliamentary support
  • Assisting with the drafting of clear, concise policy briefings and background notes
  • Updating and maintaining parliamentary monitoring databases to record IAS engagement with MPs and Peers
  • Supporting parliamentary and stakeholder engagement work as required
• Events and engagement
  • Supporting the organisation of IAS events, both in-person and virtual
  • Assisting with logistics such as booking rooms, managing attendee lists, preparing materials, and post-event follow-up
• Communications and media
  • Assisting with the development and production of IAS’s monthly newsletter and podcast, Alcohol Alert
  • Supporting the creation and scheduling of social media content and engaging with followers across platforms
  • Collating and circulating daily alcohol-related news, policy and research updates for key partners
• General support
  • Providing administrative and project support for the IAS team as needed
  • Working collaboratively with colleagues to support IAS’s wider aims and activities

About you

We are looking for an enthusiastic team player who is excited to work in a small organisation where everyone contributes and ideas are valued. You will be curious, motivated and committed to working on one of the most important public health and social justice issues facing the UK today.

Experience and skills we are looking for

• Undergraduate degree, equivalent professional qualification or experience in campaigning, political research or a related field
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to a variety of audiences
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office
• Ability to work independently and manage time while working unsupervised at home
• Good working knowledge of social media platforms
• An interest in politics, parliamentary processes and/or public health

• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
• A proactive, enthusiastic and collaborative approach to work

Equality and diversity

IAS is committed to being an inclusive and diverse organisation. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and particularly encourage applications from groups underrepresented in the public health and policy sector.

Interview process

First interviews for this role will be held online on 11 and 12 June, with a second in-person interview for successful candidates to take place at our offices on 16 June. Please confirm in your cover letter you can be available on these dates.

We hope to find someone who can join our team late July/early August.

This is an exciting opportunity for a proactive and analytical policy professional to join our dynamic External Affairs team in The Royal College of Radiologists’ (RCR).

Our policy aims are simple: to enhance NHS systems, pathways and working conditions for RCR members so that they can provide optimum care to their patients. While the aims are simple, making it happen is less so. This is where the policy team come in. Good working relationships with the doctors and senior manager are key to the success of this role, establishing credibility and understanding how their needs from the frontline can be best met.

In this role the Policy Advisor will work with the wider team by actively monitoring and responding to the external environment to influence change. The Policy Advisor will lead the development of evidence-led policy development in priority influencing areas. The postholder will be confident collaborating with key decision makers, and responding to consultations from governments and regulators. Working closely with the Policy and Public Affairs Manager and other members of the external affairs team to provide advice and counsel to the College. 

This is a great time to join the RCR team – with the exciting opportunity to build exposure and experience in public affairs, media and evidence. 

What you’ll do:

• Gather, interpret and analyse information on policy areas relevant to RCR specialties, clinical oncology and clinical radiology
• Work with Officers, committee chairs, special interest groups and other doctors to ensure that our consultation responses reflect the expert views of the RCR’s membership
• Support the planning, development, delivery and review of policy projects, consultation responses and lines to take
• Support the building of relationships with external stakeholders, including opinion formers and decision-makers
• Crafting external policy content as requested including reports, briefings, web content and presentations
• Monitoring and responding to policy queries from members and stakeholders

What you’ll need:

• Good working knowledge of public policy, government and parliament across the four nations
• Experience of writing policy papers and positions 
• Experience of responding to consultations 
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to explain complex issues clearly in writing and orally, able to adapt style
• Ability to build good working relationships with different teams, working in a collaborative way

If you are looking for an opportunity to demonstrate your expertise and grow your skills in a charitable organisation with a great cause and ambitious goals then please find out more about the Policy Advisor role, the RCR and instructions on how to apply in our candidate pack. 

Why join us:

• Make a difference to the lives of Doctors and medical specialties
• Hybrid working – up to 60% remote
• Modern working environment with home‑working equipment provided
• Generous annual leave, plus the option to buy up to 5 extra days
• Enhanced family‑friendly leave (maternity, paternity and adoption) for those with 2+ years continuous service 
• Excellent pension scheme
• Sabbaticals (5+ years’ service) and secondment opportunities
• Interest‑free season ticket loan and cycle to work scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Long service recognition awards

Do you want to change the world for vulnerable children?

The Consortium of Voluntary Adoption Agencies UK (CVAA) aims to improve adoption policy and practice across the UK for the benefit of children, challenging the adoption system to deliver for children and work in their best interests. Alongside advocating for system change, CVAA works to support our member voluntary adoption agencies (VAAs) across the four nations of the UK, stimulating innovation and ensuring they stay at the leading edge of practice. The active engagement of members and the building of collaborative alliances with others who seek positive change for children are essential to the effectiveness of our work.

The Head of Policy is a vital member of the small CVAA team, working closely with the CEO and Board of Trustees to champion the voluntary adoption sector and put children at the heart of everything we do. Due to maternity leave we have an exceptional and unique opportunity for someone who shares our passion to change the world for children, to gain valuable experience working at national level with senior stakeholders to contribute to system change, advocating for the power of adoption to change lives.

You will need strong people skills, experience of developing policy in consultation with stakeholders and using data to transform services and strengthen lobbying work. Most of all you need a cast iron commitment to change the world for vulnerable children.

CVAA works to challenge discrimination and disadvantage and welcomes applications from all communities, particularly those who are underrepresented in our sector, which includes but is not limited to people from Global Majority backgrounds, adoptees, men and those who identify as LGBTQ.

Key information

• Maternity Cover 1 year from July 2026
• Location - remote contract with occasional travel
• £40 – 45K depending on experience
• An enhanced DBS check is required for this role.

Applications

Please send a CV and letter of application, outlining your motivation for applying and the skills you offer, to Satwinder Sandhu (CEO) by 5pm on Friday 8th May 2026.

Both Satwinder (CEO) and Alice (Director of Strategy and Policy) are happy to have an informal chat about the role. Please email to arrange a convenient time to speak.

Initial online interviews via Microsoft Teams will be on Monday 18th and Tuesday 19th May, with final in-person interviews scheduled for Thursday 28th May 2026 in London. Please let us know whether you cannot make any of these dates in your application.

Salary: £48,000 per annum

Contract Type: Permanent

Location: UK (minimum 2 days per week in the London office)

Work Pattern: Full-time, 37.5 hours per week with the opportunity for flexible working hours

Reporting To : Associate Director Advocacy & Campaigns

HOW TO APPLY

Please submit an anonymised CV and covering letter (please remove any identifying details such as name, address, or photos) by 23:00 on Monday 25 May via Workable.

In your covering letter, please demonstrate your motivations for applying for the role, how the position aligns with your career plans, and the experience (professional, voluntary, or lived) that makes you a strong fit for the role in line with our values and the criteria outlined in the job description.

We encourage candidates to ensure their responses reflect their own skills, experiences, and personal voice. If AI tools are used, candidates will be asked to explain how and why they used them. Please see our Using AI - Guidance for Job Applicants for further assistance.

INTERVIEW STAGES

The selection process will consist of three stages (dates will be confirmed with shortlisted candidates):

• First-round interview w/c 1 June 2026
• Second-round interview w/c 15 June 2026

Candidates will be asked to prepare a presentation (10 minutes maximum) on a policy and campaigning topic. Candidates should allocate no more than 3 hours to prepare this task.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Mission 44 exists to drive change and build a fairer, more inclusive future for young people around the world. As our work continues to expand, so does our ambition to influence policy, shift power, and drive systemic change by addressing the barriers young people face and advancing evidence-based solutions.

The Senior Manager, Policy & Campaigns will be central to this mission, leading the development of policy positions and research that strengthens Mission 44’s ability to influence decision-makers and shape public discourse.

Mission 44’s impact model brings together strategic investment (through grantmaking) and targeted influence to drive systemic change. The Senior Manager will work closely with grantmaking teams to ensure that insight from funded work is embedded in policy and research, while also feeding learning and evidence back into funding strategies to strengthen decision-making and maximise impact.

The role will lead and manage Mission 44’s policy and research agenda, acting as a key point of contact for partners and building trusted relationships across government, the education and youth sectors, and civil society. The role will lead the development of policy recommendations, commission and translate research into clear, actionable outputs, and collaborate with internal teams and partners to align policy priorities with wider organisational objectives and maximise influence.

The role also plays a critical role in advocacy and external engagement, ensuring Mission 44’s voice is present in key policy moments, supporting strategic campaigns, and connecting research and insight to high-impact opportunities that drive political attention and sustained change at a national and global level.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

POLICY

• Lead the development and delivery of Mission 44’s policy strategy, aligned to organisational priorities and focused on driving systemic change for young people
• Develop clear, evidence-based policy positions and recommendations that influence government, civil society, the education sector and key decision-makers
• Build and maintain trusted relationships with policymakers, advisors, think tanks, academics, and sector leaders to strengthen Mission 44’s influence
• Identify and shape opportunities to influence policy agendas, consultations and legislative processes at national and global levels
• Work cross-functionally to align policy priorities with external engagement and advocacy activity
• Monitor and analyse political and policy developments across relevant landscapes, leading on timely evidence-led responses and providing strategic insight and recommendations
• Track and evaluate the impact of policy and advocacy activity, using insights to refine strategy and approach
• Account manage Mission 44’s external policy and research partners and consultants, ensuring high-quality delivery and value for money

CAMPAIGNS

• Support the design and delivery of integrated advocacy campaigns that connect policy, research and storytelling to drive political attention and action

• Work closely with partners and young people to co-create campaigns, ensuring their voices and experiences shape campaign priorities, policy recommendations and delivery approaches
• Work cross-functionally with communications and partnerships teams to maximise influence
• Identify and leverage key moments, partnerships and platforms to elevate Mission 44’s voice and policy agenda
• Contribute to campaign messaging and narratives that translate policy positions into compelling calls to action for target audiences

RESEARCH

• Commission and oversee high-quality research, ensuring outputs are rigorous, relevant, and actionable
• Translate complex research and data into compelling policy briefs, reports, and insight-driven narratives to support advocacy and influence

• Ensure all policy and research outputs are accessible, inclusive and reflect the lived experiences of young people

ABOUT YOU: SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

ESSENTIAL 

• Strong experience in policy development with a track record of influencing decision-makers
• Experience shaping or contributing to successful community-led movements, advocacy campaigns or policy change initiatives
• Deep understanding of political and policy-making processes, ideally in education, employment, social justice, or youth-focused areas
• Experience in participatory and youth-centred research approaches, including co-creation with young people and gathering insight through polling, perception studies and stakeholder engagement - alongside more traditional research methods
• Ability to translate complex research and evidence into clear, persuasive policy recommendations and narratives
• Proven experience building and managing senior stakeholder relationships across government, civil society, education, employment and/or youth sectors
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including producing high-quality briefings, reports and consultation responses
• Experience leading projects and managing external partners 
• Strategic thinking skills, with the ability to identify and act on opportunities to influence policy agendas

DESIRABLE

• Experience working in or with government, think tanks, charities or advocacy organisations
• Experience in working with young people to create campaigns or advocacy initiatives
• Knowledge of UK and/or international policy landscapes relevant to Mission 44’s focus areas
• Familiarity with youth engagement approaches and/or incorporating lived experience into policy development
• Experience working with high-profile stakeholders
• Understanding of media and communications as a tool for policy influence

PERSONAL QUALITIES  

• Passionate about creating a fairer, more inclusive future for young people around the world 
• Highly motivated, proactive, and able to operate effectively in a fast-paced, evolving environment
• Strong relationship builder
• Collaborative mindset, with the ability to work cross-functionally and bring others with you
• Confident and persuasive, with the ability to engage and influence senior audiences
• Analytical and curious, with a strong attention to detail
• Resilient and adaptable, with the ability to manage competing priorities and ambiguity
• Works flexibly and proactively without close supervision

Benefits

• Enjoy 28 days annual leave, plus a day for your birthday
• Use our cycle-to-work scheme and free gym access
• Save for retirement with our generous pension package
• We finish every Friday at noon in August
• Optional health insurance and acccess to an EAP
• Professional development budget of £1k
• Unlimited volunteering leave, as agreed with your manager
• Wellbeing allowance to spend in whatever way works for you
• Competitive parental leave package