Policy jobs in london, greater london

We are recruiting for a member of the Policy and Research team to help provide hard-hitting evidence to deliver our mission for more affordable, greener transport solutions.

• £29,000-£38,000 (dependent on experience level and appropriate seniority), 8 per cent pension, generous annual leave and life insurance
• Full-time, permanent
• Location: Southwark and flexible home working

Campaign for Better Transport is the leading national charity championing the need for integrated, sustainable and affordable transport. This role will play a significant part in our Policy and Research team and will be responsible for developing and evidencing our policy work to underpin our campaigning, influencing and communications.

The successful candidate will have experience in policy research, a good understanding of quantitative and qualitative research, the ability to develop and utilise appropriate research methods and excellent data analysis skills. They will also have an understanding of Westminster, national, regional and local policy development and delivery processes.

We are open to levels of seniority between officer and manager level, and will appoint the most suitable person to the post, depending on experience.

Key responsibilities include:

• Research 
  • Managing and working on research projects that utilise both quantitative and qualitative methods, including drafting and analysing surveys, statistical data analysis, and organising and leading focus groups and expert workshops
  • Drafting written reports, including analysis of the research findings and the policy context, and developing recommendations for policymakers.

• Policy
  • Developing and disseminating the charity’s policy positions based on robust evidence and analysis
  • Managing the delivery of written materials including policy briefings, letters, consultation responses and inquiry submissions.

• External facing 
  • Supporting external communications, including blog writing and acting as a media spokesperson
  • Maintaining effective working relationships and attending meetings with key partners and stakeholders
  • Representing the charity externally at conferences, roundtables and other events.

Person specification

To succeed in this role, you will need:

• An undergraduate qualification (transport, policy or politics related would be a bonus)
• Experience in a similar role (a minimum of one year for the Policy Researcher role, including internships, and three years for the Policy Research Manager role)
• Understanding of quantitative and qualitative research and ability to develop and utilise appropriate research methods 
• Excellent data analysis skills (ability to use data analytical tools desirable)
• Ability to lead workshops and roundtables
• Understanding of Westminster, national, regional and local policy development and delivery processes 
• Understanding of the major issues in sustainable transport (desirable for the Policy Researcher role and essential for the Policy Research Manager role)
• Experience of working effectively with stakeholders from different sectors 
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly 
• Engaging verbal and written communication style tailored for different audiences 
• Confident public speaker and ability to persuade and network effectively
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet often competing deadlines
• Strong work planning and prioritisation skills
• Proven ability to work both independently and in a team-oriented, collaborative environment
• Attention to detail and ability to maintain accuracy of communications.

United For Global Mental Health is seeking a Consultant to deliver the following project:

Project: Policy brief - Integration of mental health into heat action policy 

Objective: Research and author a policy briefing on how mental health can be best integrated into heat action policy

Location: Global remote (based anywhere with preference for +-8h GMT)

Scope This policy brief will: 

(i) outline how mental health considerations currently feature in heat policies (operationalization of what will be considered a “heat policy” in terms of geographical remit (e.g., national vs municipal) and in terms of policy (e.g., Heat Action Plan, Heat Health Action Plan etc) to be decided together with consultant)

(ii) describe at least 6 case studies (one case study per WHO region) of the successful integration of mental health considerations into heat adaptation and responses;

(iii) provide concrete recommendations for policymakers (with a focus on policymakers working on heat policies, e.g., municipal policymakers working on heat or on relevant topics (e.g., urban development or housing), stakeholders in the Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Health, heat officers in cities, civil protection agencies, meteorological agencies, etc.) 

Proposed budget cap

10,000 GBP (inclusive of VAT/sales tax)

Services

The services provided by the consultant will include: 

• Conduct a narrative review (max. 10 pages) of how mental health features in heat policies [expected time: approximately 10 working days]
• Liaise with the team at Columbia University to consider how to translate the academic paper: A Critical Gap in Addressing Mental Health in Heat-Health Action Plans Worldwide into the policy brief [expected time: approximately 2 working days]
• Coordinate a call for case studies (e.g., on UnitedGMH social media such as LinkedIn, the Global Mental Health Action Network Circle platform, and via targeted outreach to specific climate and health or heat and health communities) looking at the integration of mental health considerations into heat policies. This would also include lived experience accounts. This would entail coordinating the collection, selection, and write-up of the case studies. [expected time: approximately 5 working days]
• In conjunction with the activity above, conduct a scoping exercise/desk review to identify examples of case studies on the integration of mental health considerations into heat policies to identify other possible case studies. If possible this should also include the collection of financial data to make a financial case for the integration of mental health into heat policies [expected time: approximately 5 working days]
• Coordinate the process of developing recommendations from experts (expert identification to be supported by UnitedGMH) on the integration of mental health into heat policies via (i) a virtual roundtable; (ii) a written feedback process on the recommendations.
• Write-up policy brief (max. 20 pages) which should at a minimum include: (i) a snapshot of how mental health currently features in heat policies; (ii) at least 5 case studies of ways in which mental health has been integrated in heat policies; (iii) recommendations (including specific language recommendations) for the integration of mental health into heat policies (these should be aligned with existing guidance, e.g., WHO guidance on Heat Health Action Plans) [expected time: approximately 10 days]
• The consultant will be supervised by Alessandro Massazza (United for Global Mental Health), Robbie Parks (Columbia University), and Emma Lawrance (Climate Cares Centre). In additional, the project team will collaborate closely with the authors of this paper: A Critical Gap in Addressing Mental Health in Heat-Health Action Plans Worldwide

The consultant will be appropriately referenced in all outputs (e.g., authorship on the report etc.).

We may consider transforming the report into an academic publication which the consultant would be welcome to contribute to (based on their capacity). This would however not be part of the deliverables. 

Timeline

• 1st November 2025: Project start
• 1st January 2026: Conclusion of narrative review and coordination with Columbia (steps 1&2) and launch of call for case studies
• 1st March 2026: Call for case studies closing and end of desk review work on collection of case studies (steps 3&4)
• 1st April 2026: Conclusion of recommendation development process via expert consensus (step 5)
• 1st May 2026: Conclusion of write-up of policy brief
• Mid-June (ideally during SB64): Launch of report

Are you interested in working with a reputed international sustainability organisation to influence policy developments on sustainability globally? ISEAL is hiring a Senior Policy Officer to join our team responsible for public engagement and policy influencing. This is the perfect role for someone who is keen to work in an increasingly dynamic regulatory and policy landscape to strengthen the role of voluntary sustainability tools alongside emerging mandatory measures. 

The core objective of the Policy and Engagement team is to support governments, civil society and other business influencers to understand, identify and use credible sustainability systems.  We do this through direct engagement with relevant government bodies in priority countries, engagement with individual businesses and business platforms and building member awareness and knowledge about relevant policy files and implications of new policies for their schemes and impact. The team focused on the UK, Switzerland, EU-wide policy and key EU members states, as well as on countries in the global south, including Colombia, Indonesia, India and Brazil.

The Senior Policy Officer will help drive engagement with policymakers in key countries in which ISEAL and its partners have a strategic policy interest, with a view to influencing the policy narrative on sustainability and specific policies. The role will identify policy engagement opportunities and provide insightful analysis of policy developments and trends.  In addition, the role will work closely with ISEAL members based in these regions to combine efforts and align on policy influencing.

The ideal candidate will have had exposure to working in an international policy context, either working as part of civic society with governments or as part of a government department. A strong grounding in sustainability issues and related key political and policy debates will be essential, along with some working knowledge of key policy trends in the human rights, climate and sustainability standards space. Prior experience in working in the EU, UK at policy and regulatory landscape or public affairs level will be an advantage. The Senior Officer reports to the Director, Policy and Engagement.

Key Responsibilities we will entrust you with:

Policy and government engagement

• Support ISEAL´s strategic engagement with identified key policymaker targets and audiences from a policy influencing and role of voluntary tools perspective
• Keep track of policy developments in key areas and jurisdictions and provide insights and analysis to inform ISEAL’s policy engagement work
• Help identify opportunities for engagements with relevant policymaker audiences and government agencies in key jurisdictions and engage with them as delegated and supported by other colleagues
• Set up direct meetings and other engagement opportunities for ISEAL, coordinate ISEAL’s input, advise and engagement and prepare briefs, reports and submissions for engagement purposes
• Contribute to establishing engagement and influencing strategies and to the development of ISEAL’s policy positions
• Provide internal advisory support to other teams on critical policy files based on own subject matter and jurisdiction knowledge
• Support team in development of policy papers, position papers, press releases, strategic messaging on policy issues
• Facilitate webinars and workshops on policy related topics

Other

• Track policy developments and analyse how they  affect sustainability systems, ISEAL and its members
• Help shape ISEAL’s work on global policy engagement and outreach in the next strategy period
• Conduct or support other team members with background research on specific regulatory proposals and policy frameworks and related topics
• Support ISEAL’s member-facing policy activities liaising with the rest of the team
• Provide policy advice and analysis as requested on priority topics
• Participate actively in team and organisational planning and activities
• Participate in internal staff management processes such as performance reviews, supervisory meetings, etc.

Experience, Knowledge and Attributes

• Postgraduate degree in a relevant subject (e.g. sustainability or environmental studies, human rights, law, int. development/ social policy, EU policy etc.) and/or equivalent work experience
• Proven experience working in a policy context as part of civic society or within a government department supporting policy engagement
• Good working knowledge of the sustainability policy landscape and key debates in the space
• Strong skills in policy analysis and policy intelligence
• Excellent written and spoken English communication skills
• Excellent writing skills and ability to synthesise information
• Prior exposure to sustainability standards, passionate about sustainability linked policy issues such as human rights, climate, nature, due diligence  
• Some experience and comfortable with public speaking, e.g. facilitating webinars or workshops
• Ability to communicate and work effectively with cross-functional teams in a largely remote, international environment, including occasional international time-zone calls
• Confidence in using IT systems, familiarity with virtual meeting tools (e.g. MS Teams, Skype, GoToMeeting, etc), use of contact management databases (e.g. Salesforce) and proficiency in MS Office

Additionally desirable

• Other languages: Spanish
• Prior experience working with remote manager and team
• Exposure to working on strategic policy questions
• Experience in tracking, engaging in development issues in global south countries

About ISEAL

ISEAL supports ambitious sustainability systems and their partners to tackle the world’s most pressing sustainability challenges – from the climate emergency and biodiversity crisis to human rights and persistent poverty. ISEAL Community Members include many of the most respected sustainability schemes worldwide and are active across a diverse range of sectors. Read more about us on our website iseal(.)org. 

ISEAL´s culture and how we will help you thrive

Our values are Connection, Empowerment, Inspiration, Well-being, Creativity and Celebration.

These are traits we value in each other and in the organisation overall and we instil these in all our processes and interactions.

The issues we work on are of a global nature and our team reflects this, with individuals from many different backgrounds and nationalities. We know this diversity adds to the high quality of work we deliver as an organisation and through our commitment to diversity and inclusion we want to add strengths and perspectives in our team with each recruitment. Diversity for us includes race and gender identity, age, disability status, sexual orientation, religion and many other areas forming part of someone´s identity. We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer.

As an organisation, we also support our people in their personal and professional development, with specific budgets and processes enabling individuals to take advantage of growth and development opportunities.

We offer 25 days of annual leave, to which we will add a day a year after 2 years (to a maximum of 30 days), as well as an extra five days as a one off once you have been with us for a full five years.

We recognise individuals’ preferences when it comes to where and when to work through a hybrid working model with a minimum of 4 days per month in the London office as well as the opportunity to apply for flexible working arrangements to suit individual´s needs.

Other relevant information

Term: This is a fixed term 12 months contract from December 2025 / January 2026

Salary: £40,000-£45,000 p.a. depending on experience (full time, 37.5 hours per week)

Location: London is the preferred location. An ability and willingness to work in a hybrid work environment is required.

International travel: The post holder will be required to undertake a fair amount of international travel and should ideally have the passport (UK, EU) to enable this smoothly

How to apply

Specific enquiries about this role and the application process can be sent to the recruitment(atisealalliance(.)org.

Deadline for applications is 24 September 2025

Please note that we will only contact shortlisted applicants.

Interview process

Please see below the planned interview process (please note that we will endeavor to keep to this schedule, but some dates may be subject to change)

First interviews (Teams): 1-3 October

Pre-interview timed exercises (between 60 – 90 minutes from home): 7-9 October

Panel interviews (Teams): w/c 13 October

Decision: w/c 20 October

Accessibility

If candidates require additional time or other considerations for the interview process, we are committed to accommodating any reasonable requests.

Please note that ISEAL will cover travel expenses for in person interviews for candidates travelling from outside of Greater London. ISEAL also covers caring expenses for candidates who are carers and need to arrange of cover for the duration of the interview/exercises

The Director of Policy, Strategy and Governance is a new leadership role at the forefront of shaping and communicating our strategic direction.

As a member of the executive team reporting to the CEO, the Director will work with school leaders, other key external partners and teams within Camden Learning to drive high standards and grow a school-led system striving for both excellence and equity.

The Director will be responsible for leading, developing and communicating Camden Learning’s strategic direction, including plans for future growth and success. This entails keeping abreast of current developments, not only identifying opportunities and trends but also developing and supporting innovative approaches while ensuring alignment with Camden Learning’s goals.

The Director will be responsible for overall governance effectiveness, as well as provide strategic leadership for school governor services, ensuring effective support for governors in their key strategic and statutory roles. This includes establishing high-quality development and training programmes, the provision of a clerking service and bespoke support for governing bodies, as needed.

We are looking for a leader who can take ownership of shaping this role from day one – a strategic thinker, a skilled communicator, and a champion of inclusive governance. This is a rare opportunity to influence the future of education in Camden and beyond. Your leadership will help us tell our story, measure our impact, and ensure that our strategy remains both ambitious and grounded in the realities of our schools.

Key dates

• Applications close: 9am Mon 6 October
• First round interviews: Tue 21 and Wed 22 October (online)
• Final round interviews: Tue 28 October (in person at 5 Pancras Square, London)
• Start date: As soon as possible (January 2026), to be agreed with the successful candidate.

ImpactEd Consulting is acting as recruitment advisor to Camden Learning on this appointment.

Senior Policy Research Manager

Permanent

Salary: £45,000 - £47,000 per annum, plus benefits

London N1

Full time – 37.5 hours a week 

We're a hybrid working employer, meaning you're required to come into the office at least 2 days per week currently Tuesday, and Wednesday or Thursday.

Closing date: 5pm, 5th October 2025

First Interviews: w/c 13th October 2025

Second Interviews: 21st and 22nd October 2025 

It’s an exciting time to join World Cancer Research Fund International’s policy team as we develop the next phase of our policy tools and resources. WCRF International leads and unites a global network of cancer prevention charities based in Europe and the Americas, providing the science, policy, and strategic direction that guides their work to prevent cancer worldwide.

We are recruiting a Senior Policy Research Manager to lead WCRF’s flagship policy tools, including NOURISHING, MOVING and the Blueprint for Cancer Prevention. You will translate the latest science into actionable policy recommendations, deliver high-quality research projects, and represent WCRF externally to maximise our national and international impact.

We are looking for a candidate with strong policy research expertise, experience in evidence-based advocacy, and the ability to turn complex science into clear policy solutions. You will bring an innovative approach, including exploring new methods such as AI, and be skilled at working across teams and with external stakeholders.

You will have a proven track record in managing policy tools or research projects, building collaborations and engaging senior decision-makers. Strong communication, leadership and stakeholder skills are essential to support WCRF’s strategy and enhance the influence of the Policy & Public Affairs team.

Application Details:
If you are interested in this role and feel you possess the necessary requirements, please submit a current CV and covering letter (maximum 2 pages) by the closing date. You must have current right to work in the UK.

Please note: Your cover letter should highlight how your skills and experience will benefit WCRF International and equip you for the role.Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we are only able to provide feedback to shortlisted candidates. If you do not hear from us within 14 days of the closing date, please assume your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion. 

We are looking for an experienced Policy and Advocacy Manager to take forward our work with Central Government and other Non-Departmental Public Bodies.

You will play a critical role in shaping and deepening our relationships with these key partners. By working together, we can expand the support available to community-based charities and social enterprises, helping them become more resilient through enterprise.

What you will deliver (responsibilities)

• Policy development - You will lead on developing clear and actionable policy recommendations to Government and relevant NDPBS that expand the funding and support available to charities and social enterprises looking to build their resilience through enterprise.
• Public affairs - Advocate for policy and funding models that create long-term, meaningful support for charities and social enterprises. Represent Access at various policy forums, meetings, and events to influence public policy and engage directly with decision-makers such as MPs.
• Partnership working - Actively contribute to relevant campaigns, policy forums, and advocacy groups to strengthen Access’s influence on policies that impact the social economy and the policy and regulatory environment for social investment.
• Communications - Write clear, engaging, and persuasive policy briefs, reports, and position papers to communicate Access's policy priorities to government and other stakeholders. Contribute to Access's wider communications strategy by developing blogs, reports, press releases, and speeches to amplify the organisation’s role in shaping public policy.
• Evidence and storytelling - Use data, sector insights, and compelling case studies to create narratives that not only advocate for policy change but also strengthen Access's position as a thought leader.

If this opportunity aligns with your career goals, please review our job pack, which includes the job description and person specification apply via BeApplied. We encourage you to familiarise yourself with the requirements before applying.

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We are committed to being an inclusive organisation and actively promote equality of opportunity for all. We believe in the value of a diverse workforce and encourage applications from individuals with a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Selection for roles is based solely on individual merit, talent, skills, and potential.

As a charity, we are dedicated to reflecting the communities and individuals we aim to support. We particularly welcome applications from candidates who share lived experiences or come from backgrounds that align with those we serve. Diversity strengthens our ability to make a meaningful impact, and we encourage all who feel passionate about our mission to apply.

Interview dates are expected to be online on 15th and 16th October.

Help shape national debates on justice and champion the voice of magistrates.

We’re looking for a Policy and Research Officer to join the Magistrates’ Association and turn evidence into influence.

The MA is the only independent membership body for magistrates in England and Wales. With around 12,000 members, we speak truth to power, support our members, and advocate for a fairer and more effective justice system.

This is a varied, fast-paced role where no two days are the same. One day you might be writing a briefing for a parliamentary inquiry or drafting a consultation response; the next you could be analysing survey data, supporting one of our national policy committees, or working with colleagues to launch a new advocacy report in the media.

You’ll be joining a small, supportive team where your ideas can have real impact. Recent projects have tackled judicial diversity, recognition for magistrates, reform of the Single Justice Procedure, and access to justice for disabled magistrates. Your work will help shape the future of the magistracy — and through it, the wider justice system.

We’re looking for someone with strong research and analytical skills, excellent writing and communication, and the ability to grasp complex issues quickly. If you’re passionate about justice and want to see your work influence real-world change, this role is for you.

Would you like to make a difference?

We are looking for a highly organised and motivated individual to join our team as Executive and Policy Assistant. This is a varied and rewarding role, working directly with the CEO and closely with our Communications and Impact team.

You will provide vital support to the CEO by managing diaries, coordinating meetings and events, preparing briefings and presentations, and acting as a key contact for staff, funders, supporters and the Board. You will also play a hands-on role in our policy and campaigning work — carrying out research, drafting communications and helping to ensure the voices of children, young people and adults with dyslexia are heard at every level.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a busy, purpose-driven environment, can balance multiple priorities, and wants to use their skills to make a meaningful difference for the dyslexia community.

Please carefully review the job description (attached below) for full responsibiliites of the role and essential skills required.

Location - Hybrid - this role is primarily home-based (UK), with the requirement to work from our office in Bracknell once a month, and to travel to London at least once a week, or as needed. 

____________________________________________________________________________________________

Interview schedule - first stage will take place on Monday 13 October 2025, with second stage taking place on Thursday 16 October 2025.

Policy Lead, Labour Market Policy and Analysis (1 Year FTC)

London (WC1B 3LS)
Salary: Grade 8.1 £58,755 pa plus £6154 London Weighting PA

Based in Congress House, WC1B 3LS

One-year fixed-term, five days (35 hours) a week. Happy to talk about flexible working.

The TUC is looking for a Policy Lead to contribute to our policy development and data analysis across areas including employment rights, labour market and pensions policy

This position has been created to boost the TUC’s policy capacity at a time of significant shifts in the UK labour market. The role will support our response to various new legislation and a rapidly changing economy.

It will suit someone who has highly developed data analysis skills, who is comfortable applying this experience to policy areas including labour markets and pensions.  

What key experience, skills, knowledge and understanding do you need?

 You will need:

• Experience in analysis of primary and secondary data related to labour market trends and living standards
• Experience initiating and carrying through quantitative research projects
• Confident skills in evaluating and communicating a range of data sources from legal material to quantitative data, and using evidence to inform policy development

If this is you, then take a look at our job description and person specification.

The closing date for completed applications for this post is 17:00 Friday 26 September 2025. We expect interviews will be held on Tuesday 14 October 2025.

The TUC operates an anonymised recruitment process, and names are not included during shortlisting. We don’t ask for details of educational institutions attended.

TUC staff enjoy a good benefits package, including a final salary pension scheme and other benefits.  Please read our staff benefits document for additional information.

Closing date: 26th September

Shortlist date – 27th September

Interview date: 14th October

About you

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

Myeloma UK is looking for a motivated and highly proactive Senior Policy Officer to join our Patient Advocacy team within the wider Research and Advocacy directorate. 

You will have experience in analysing, developing, and communicating complex policy issues, strong communication skills, and the ability to prioritise a fast-moving and wide-ranging workload.

You will also have experience working collaboratively and building relationships with a range of internal and external stakeholders. 

You will have the ability to present findings and recommendations to a range of audiences and produce high-quality succinct briefings in a timely fashion, underpinned by evidence.

Empathy and sensitivity are required to work closely with patients and their families and friends.

Experience in the health charity sector, public/patient engagement work, and working on the National Institute of Health Care Excellence (NICE) and Scottish Medicines Consortium (SMC) consultation processes would be beneficial but not essential.

About the role

As Senior Policy Officer you will be part of the Patient Advocacy team who work to ensure that the patient voice is heard and acted upon by UK and devolved nations healthcare policy decision makers. You will represent the charity externally including national meetings with senior healthcare decision makers.

Your role is vital to developing strategic approaches to health technology appraisals (HTA), regulatory pathways (MHRA), clinical development programmes (academic and industry clinical trials) and commissioning routes to broaden access to new myeloma drug therapies and diagnostic technologies.

You will apply your skills flexibly across key policy areas including access to treatment, patient voice, stakeholder engagement and general healthcare policy and work with colleagues in communications and fundraising to make sure our supporters and the wider myeloma community understand the positive impact we make.

About us

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

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

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

Our culture

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

How to apply

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

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

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

Applications close 9am on 6 October 2025 and interviews will be held w/c 27 October 2025.

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

· sex

· race

· disability

· age

· sexual orientation

· gender reassignment

· religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity

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

You will be part of a small policy team and work with colleagues across the organisation as well as with senior internal and external stakeholders. You will work on a range of policy and public affairs issues relating to literacy and disadvantage, including mapping and responding to Government policy, writing internal briefings, helping to develop external facing policy reports, organising Parliamentary and party conference events, serving as the key contact for the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Literacy and arranging meetings with MPs and Peers. You will also help shape plans and identify new opportunities.

You will be based at our office in London but able to work regularly from home if you prefer. However, you will need to be able to be in London when necessary for in person meetings and events, approximately once or twice a month on average.

What we’re looking for

You will have experience of working in a policy-related role and managing policy and public affairs activity, and an understanding of literacy and the wider education sector. You will also need excellent writing skills, including drafting policy papers and briefings, and the ability to understand and articulate academic research and policy papers. Experience of senior stakeholder management, cross-sector campaigns and event management would be an advantage.

Why our work is so vital

Literacy changes everything.

It gives you the tools to get the most out of life, and the power to shape your future. It’s the key to knowledge, confidence and inspiration. It’s better results at school, and better jobs. If children grow up without the tools to communicate, without books to read or opportunities to write, it’s harder to get where you want to go.

The National Literacy Trust is an independent charity helping people overcome these challenges and change their life chances through the power of words – reading, writing, speaking and listening. From first words, through school days to training, jobs and beyond.

• We work collaboratively in local communities, focusing our work in 20 areas of the UK that are facing the biggest challenges.
• We support schools, developing the most effective tools and techniques and providing resources and programmes to engage and inspire children.
• We campaign to make literacy a priority for politicians and decision-makers.
• We support vulnerable adults, people in the criminal justice system and young offenders’ institutions to build their literacy skills

What we offer you

Our team are passionate about our mission and we have a strong and positive working culture, based on shared values and respect. We offer a range of flexible working options and promote a workplace where you can be yourself and contribute to our success, whoever you are.

As well as a competitive salary, we offer benefits including a generous leave allowance totalling 39 days (including bank holidays and office closure between Christmas and New Year), pension contributions of 8% of annual salary, a cycle to work scheme, employee assistance programme and other health and wellbeing benefits.

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.

Together, the charities Sands and Tommy’s have formed a Joint Policy Unit (JPU) focussed on achieving policy change that will save more babies’ lives during pregnancy and the neonatal period and on tackling inequalities in loss, so that everyone can benefit from the best possible outcomes.

The JPU’s mission is to secure policy change that will reduce rates of miscarriage, stillbirth, pre-term birth and neonatal death, and to work to eliminate inequalities in these outcomes.

While there is widespread agreement on the need for change to improve the safety of maternity and neonatal services, what that change looks like is not clear.  To save more babies’ lives we believe that a continued focus is required, and that governments should set new commitments to reduce perinatal mortality and preterm births, focused on matching the best-performing countries in Europe.

This role will be crucial to the continued success of the JPU unit; leading, shaping and coordinating all the unit’s work. 

We are looking for an independent and assertive problem-solver, a policy expert who can manage multiple priorities, take the initiative, lead the national conversation and is as excited as we are about taking the helm of this venture for both of our organisations.

The successful candidate will need to have a substantial track record of effectively leading and implementing national policy and influencing programmes, driving change and achieving the desired impact.

You will have considerable experience across research, data analysis, policy development, public affairs and communications.  Additionally, you will be well-versed in research and data management, including analysing complex data and evaluating policy developments.

Experience of being a member of a senior management team with successful, significant and relevant management and leadership experience is also essential.

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.