Policy research officer jobs in London, greater london

Policy Officer

Salary: £43,099 plus excellent benefits

Contract type: Permanent, full time

Hours per week: 37.5 hours per week. All staff are required to work in person for a minimum of two days per week, in line with our hybrid working policy. The post-holder may be required to undertake some work outside normal working hours.

About the Health Foundation

Health is our most precious asset. Good health enables us to live happy, fulfilling lives, fuels our prosperity and helps build a stronger society. Yet good health remains out of reach for too many people in the UK, and health and care services are struggling to provide access to timely, high-quality care.

The Health Foundation is an independent charitable organisation with a mission to build a healthier UK. We work to achieve this by generating high quality research and analysis; developing practical solutions to the biggest problems in health and health services; engaging, convening and building coalitions to build understanding, inform debate and drive action; and developing the long-term capability needed to transform health and care.

Our values

We expect everyone who works with us to be committed to our values and to share our commitment to becoming a more diverse and inclusive organisation. Our values are impact, evidence, integrity, and collaboration. You can read more about them in our five-year strategy. We also expect everyone to share our commitment to becoming a more diverse and inclusive organisation and to help deliver our EDI strategy.

About the role

There are 2 Policy Officer roles in the Health and Care Policy team available. The team focuses on shaping the future of the health and social care system in the UK to ensure the best care for all, by supporting more evidence-informed policy and decision-making. One officer will work across a range of thematic areas, and one will focus initially on technology and AI, with the opportunity to work across other areas further down the line. The Policy Officer will work on a mix of short and longer-term projects, including supporting in-house policy analysis and research, as well as helping to scope and develop ideas for externally commissioned research. This will involve a range of different approaches, including synthesising qualitative and quantitative research evidence; analysing policy documents and grey literature; qualitative methods such as key informant interviews and thematic analysis; and other approaches involved in policy-focused research. The Policy Officer will help write and contribute to external publications, including briefings, blogs, and longer Health Foundation reports. They will also support the team to bring together policymakers and others in events, meetings, workshops, and other activities to inform and influence thinking and decisions. Key responsibilities include:

• Assisting with a range of high-profile policy projects, including project planning and development, and helping with analysis, writing and publication.
• Contributing to literature reviews and rapid scans of data and evidence; producing summaries of the main findings and implications for policy.
• Supporting policy research, working with internal and external partners and assisting with written outputs.
• Assisting with communicating the findings of our work to a range of audiences, including policymakers, academics and the media.
• Building and maintaining relationships with external stakeholders relevant to our policy portfolio.
• Supporting the design and delivery of workshops or other events with policymakers and other relevant stakeholders – for example, helping to design a session to communicate and discuss the findings from a research report.

How to apply

Our priority is to find the right individual for each opportunity. We are dedicated to building an inclusive workplace that values diversity and invite you to find out more.

You can find the job description for this role here. If you would like to apply, please submit your CV, and a supporting statement that answers the following application questions:

• We are hiring for two Policy Officer roles, one initially focussing on technology and AI and the other working in a more generalist role across projects on the NHS and social care in the Health and Care Policy team. Do you have a preference or would you like to be considered for both roles?
• Why are you well suited to this role and why do you want to work at the Health Foundation? (Max 400 words)
• What skills and experience do you have in policy research? As part of your answer, please describe an example of a piece of research or analysis you have led or contributed to. (Max 400 words)
• Describe your experience of communicating the findings of a piece of work to an external audience. How did you approach it and what did you learn? (Max 400 words)

Our commitment to equality, inclusion and diversity

We are committed to an inclusive hiring process, where every candidate has the chance to showcase their unique skills and experience in an accessible and supported environment, to ensure that we can make the best appointment for each opportunity on merit. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and encourage those from underrepresented groups in this field to apply to us. We have identified three key areas to improving diversity. Our aim to achieve a more balanced representation across our organisation, with a particular focus on increasing the number of women in leadership, enhancing the representation of people from Black and ethnic minority backgrounds and welcoming more people with disabilities. As part of this commitment, we strongly encourage applications from these groups.

Apply to join our team and let's work towards building a more diverse and inclusive workplace together. If you require any support through this process, please contact us. Help us work together to make the recruitment process and potential future employment more accessible and enjoyable for you.

Closing date: 23rd August 2026

Interview date: week commencing 31 August 2026

Research Manager

Location: Flexible, London Head Office (minimum 2 days per week in the office) or Home Based
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week
Salary: £44,598 (London, Hybrid) or £40,320 (home-based)
Closing Date: 9.00am, Monday 17 August 2026
Interview Dates: Thursday 3 September and Friday 4 September 2026 (expected)

Join Homeless Link

Homeless Link is the national membership charity for frontline homeless agencies in England. With more than 750 members, we work to improve services and campaign for policy change that will help end homelessness and ensure that everyone has a place to call home and the support they need to keep it.  

As part of the Social Change directorate the Policy and Research team lead Homeless Link’s evidence, policy influencing and thought leadership activities. The research team generates robust evidence and practical insight to improve outcomes for people experiencing homelessness. We exist to contribute to the national evidence base needed to shape policy, challenge narratives, and advocate for system-level change. We deliver applied mixed-methods social research that helps organisations, commissioners, and communities understand needs, experiences, and what works to strengthen responses to homelessness.

About the Role

We’re looking to recruit a Research Manager to support the delivery of our strategic research portfolio. This role will involve managing and delivering research design, data collection, analysis and reporting, while working collaboratively with colleagues across Homeless Link, member organisations, academics, government officials, partners and people with lived experience.

The successful candidate will be an excellent project manager with strong quantitative research skills. They will have communication and relationship building skills, understanding of interpreting research findings in wider policy contexts, and of making strategic recommendations for national and local policy and decision makers.  For full details of the role please download our Recruitment Pack.

About You

We're looking for an experienced researcher with strong project management skills and expertise in both quantitative and qualitative research methods. You'll be comfortable working with data, producing high-quality analysis and communicating findings to a wide range of audiences.

You will bring:

• Experience managing research or evaluation projects from inception to completion.
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills.
• Experience analysing and interpreting data from multiple sources.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• The ability to manage competing priorities and work collaboratively with stakeholders.
• Experience using research and data analysis software such as SPSS, R, NVivo or Power BI.

Location and Working Arrangements

This role can be based at our London Head Office or b can be home-based, with flexibility to work remotely. The successful candidate must be willing to travel across the UK when required, including occasional overnight stays.

Employee Benefits

Homeless Link is proud to offers a wide range of generous benefits including:

• 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata for part-time employees)
• Enhanced Maternity, Parental, Adoption and Sick Pay schemes
• Enhanced employer pension contributions and Salary Exchange Scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Season Ticket Loan scheme
• Access to the Blue Light Card scheme
• Group Life Assurance scheme (4x Scheme Salary benefit)
• Flexible working arrangements
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

Homeless Link is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce and actively welcomes applications from people with lived experience of homelessness, people from Black and minority ethnic communities, disabled people and other underrepresented groups. We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and creating an environment where everyone can thrive.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a covering letter explaining how you meet the requirements of the role to recruitment email. Applicants that do not submit a covering letter, will not be considered. If you have any questions regarding this vacancy, please contact the recruitment team on the above email address.

Please note: All successful applicants will be required to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the UK and complete or provide a basic DBS certificate.  

Events Officer

Full time - 35 hours per week

Location – Hybrid Working with a minimum of one day a week working from Head Office in London

Join our friendly team

We have an exciting opportunity for an Events Officer to join our Fundraising team. This is a fantastic role for someone who is passionate about creating memorable fundraising events and building strong supporter relationships that help families stay together during some of the most difficult times of their lives.

Our charity

The Sick Children's Trust is the charity that provides a welcoming 'Home from Home' where families with a sick child in hospital can stay. But we're more than bricks and mortar, our friendly, caring staff are there to support families when they really need it.

Hospital can be a lonely and scary place for anyone, but especially a child. Providing around 3,200 families a year with somewhere to stay together just minutes from the hospital means that they can be by their sick child's side and have one less thing to worry about.

The Role

This is a varied and rewarding events fundraising role, focused on delivering exceptional fundraising events and challenge activities that generate income and raise awareness of the charity.

You will help deliver key events including our Carol Service, Supper Club and Golf Day, while also supporting participants taking part in challenge events such as the London Marathon, Great North Run, London Landmarks Half Marathon and Royal Parks Half Marathon.

You'll build strong relationships with supporters, participants, volunteers, suppliers and partners, providing excellent stewardship and ensuring they have a positive experience with the charity. You will also work closely with colleagues across Fundraising, Communications and Marketing to maximise the success and reach of our events programme.

The role will involve monitoring event budgets, maintaining accurate records, securing auction prizes and pro bono support, and helping to identify new opportunities to grow income and engagement.

This role requires a proactive and organised approach, excellent attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while delivering outstanding supporter experiences.

About you

 We're looking for someone who is enthusiastic about events fundraising and motivated by creating engaging experiences that inspire people to support our work.

You will have strong interpersonal and communication skills and enjoy building relationships with a wide range of people. You will be equally comfortable supporting a marathon runner with their fundraising, liaising with suppliers, or welcoming guests to one of our special events.

You will have excellent organisational skills and be confident managing competing priorities and deadlines. You'll enjoy working as part of a collaborative team while also being able to take ownership of your own projects and responsibilities.

Ultimately, this is a great role for someone who loves events, enjoys working in a fast-paced environment and understands that no two days are the same.

The recruitment pack will provide you with more information about the role. If this role sounds like something you will excel in, we'd love to hear from you.

To apply please submit your CV with a covering letter demonstrating how you meet the criteria set out in the job description and person specification.

Closing date: 28 August 2026

About Us

For over 21 years, The Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre has offered free, holistic support to anyone in our community affected by cancer through complementary therapies, talking therapies, art and our supportive community.

In 2025 alone, we had 1,911 individual visits and 1,021 therapy sessions - entirely through the dedication of our volunteer team. We are currently renovating our new centre, and we want to use it to reach further into our community than ever before. This is the first paid role in our history.

About the Role

As our first Executive Director, you will be the single point of accountability between our Board of Trustees and the day-to-day operation of the Centre - working alongside our (voluntary) Centre Manager and (voluntary) Volunteer Manager to support their roles, not duplicate them. You'll lead our strategy delivery, guide the charity's move into its new home, and oversee a service redesign informed by a fresh programme of visitor, volunteer and community research.

About You

You already know how to do this job - you've held a senior, accountable position in a charity or comparable organisation and can bring that experience from day one. You're confident reporting to a board of trustees, comfortable getting things done, and able to win the trust of a highly experienced, long-standing volunteer team through competence and credibility, not authority alone.

Key Activity Areas

• Financial management – budgeting, financial controls, and reporting to the Board and Treasurer

• Governance & best practice – supporting trustees to discharge their statutory duties; maintaining the policy suite and risk register

• HR & people leadership – supporting our entire volunteer and therapist team; communication is key to our volunteers

• Fundraising – write and lead on a fundraising strategy, implement new funding streams and be the ‘face of Pickering’ – local networking will be essential

• Change management – leading the transition to our new centre and evolving service model with care and consultation

• Compliance – safeguarding, health and safety, GDPR, and other regulatory requirements

Qualifications - Desirable

All the below are not necessary qualifications but would assist with this role:

• CIPD qualification, or equivalent hands-on HR experience

• A recognised governance qualification (e.g. Chartered Governance Institute) or completion of a charity leadership programme or similar

• Financial management experience – a qualification would be useful but not essential

• Safeguarding lead training

Experience and Competencies — Essential

• Senior leadership experience with genuine authority and accountability in a charity or comparable mission-led organisation

• A track record of reporting to and working with a board of trustees or non-executive directors

• A track record of leading organisational change, with evidence it was genuinely adopted

• Sound financial literacy - budgets, management accounts, financial controls, dealing with auditors

• Working knowledge of safeguarding, risk management and regulatory compliance

• Excellent written and verbal communication, including board-level reporting as well as the ability to speak in public

• Experience making a leadership role pay for itself, through income generation, cost savings, or both

• A genuine, demonstrable commitment to Pickering's mission

Experience and Competencies — Desirable

• Fundraising experience across grants, trusts, community fundraising and corporate partnerships

• Experience within the cancer support, wider healthcare, or hospice sector

• Lived experience of cancer, personally or through supporting someone close to you

• Experience leading a refresh of a brand or a rebrand, service redesign, or physical relocation of services

• Familiarity with Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding local community

Safeguarding

This role involves working with adults who may be vulnerable by virtue of serious illness. The successful candidate will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory reference checks before appointment, and will act as, or oversee, the charity's designated safeguarding lead.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Pickering is committed to equal opportunity for all and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. A copy of our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion policy is available on request.

How to Apply

Please apply by Sunday 6 September 2026. Interviews are expected to take place w/c 14 September 2026.

About the role: AMRC is looking for a policy officer to join our small but highly influential policy and public affairs team, working at the heart of the medical research community. You will support our influencing and advocacy work, helping build a thriving research environment that facilitates innovation. We work with government and policy makers to ensure that our charities can invest in a healthy and sustainable research system across universities and the NHS. You will undertake analysis and horizon scanning to enable us to keep our members up-to-date, and you will support the development of AMRC’s policy activity. You will support activities in many areas of work including improving the sustainability of charity-university research; enhancing research careers, translation and infrastructure; maintaining a facilitative legislative and regulatory environment; and enhancing charity-industry partnerships, helping research findings to be translated into treatments, policy and practice more quickly. There will also be a public affairs dimension to the role that includes work with the APPG for Life Sciences, for which AMRC is part of the secretariat. 

Please see our website for the job description and application instructions. 

Help shape research and policy that challenges systemic racism in the criminal legal system.

UNJUST is looking for a Research and Policy Lead to develop and deliver impactful research, influence policy and work alongside communities, stakeholders and decision-makers to drive meaningful change.

This role is responsible for developing and implementing research activities and policy advocacy strategies that support UNJUST's vision to challenge systemic racism in the criminal legal system and dismantle discriminatory processes, policies and practices.

Working closely with community partners, sector stakeholders and decision-makers, you will:

• Develop and deliver impactful research centred on racial equity.
• Undertake interviews, desk research, data collection and analysis.
• Develop evidence-based policy positions and draft briefings, consultation responses and submissions.
• Track political developments and identify opportunities to influence policy at local and national levels.
• Build and maintain relationships with communities, policymakers and other stakeholders.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues to integrate policy messaging into campaigns and public statements.
• Represent UNJUST in coalitions, working groups, roundtables and external forums.

We're looking for someone with experience in policy advocacy, research and influencing change, together with a strong understanding of policing and criminal justice policy, particularly racial justice and human rights. You'll be motivated by social justice, able to build effective relationships and committed to working collaboratively with communities whose lived experiences help shape our work.

This is a full-time (35 hours per week), hybrid role based in Brixton, London, offered on a 24-month fixed-term contract. Flexible working is available.

Research and Policy Officer 
Job Description 

About DigitalCare Hub 

Digital technology helps care services spend more time caring. It helps the people we support keep control of their lives, and of their care. Over the last few years, the need for information to be shared securely and efficiently between health and care services has become even moreapparent. But this introduces new risks – for example how information is kept safe and secure, and what happens if a digital system fails. 

This is a shared role across DigitalCare HubandtheBetter Security, Better Careprogramme which wemanage. 

Digital Care Hubis runwithsocialcare,for social care.The Digital Care Hub provides free information,guidanceand support to enable adult social care providers to make the most of digital technology – and to do it safely. 

We are an independent, not-for profit, Community Interest Company, guided by care providers, so we understand the needs and challenges facing the diverse range of organisations in our sector. 

Better Security, BetterCareis a support programme– funded by the Department of Health and Social Care and managed by Digital Care Hub -to help adult social care providers to store and share information safelyby using the Data Security and Protection Toolkit (DSPT). The DSPT is a free, online self-assessment for health and care providers to evaluate and improve their data and cyber security. 

The programme is delivered by acentral team and our local support organisations across the country. Most of these support organisations arelocal care provider trade associations. We also work closely with colleagues from the NHS, ADASS, DHSC and local councils. 

About you and the role 

We're looking for an inquisitive, analytical and collaborativeResearch and Policy Officerto join our growing team. 

You'll play a key role in helping Digital Care Hub become the leading source of evidence, insight and practical guidance on digital transformation, data, AI and cybersecurity in adult social care. 

Working across our national programmes, you'll design and deliver research projects, analyse policy developments, engage with providers and partners, and translate complex issues into clear, practical resources that help the sector improve. You'll contribute to consultation responses, produce reports and briefings, support national events and webinars, and help us demonstrate the impact of our work. 

This is a varied role that combines research, policy development, stakeholder engagement and programme delivery. No two weeks will look the same—you could be facilitating a roundtable with care providers, analysing survey data, drafting a briefing for government, interviewing providers for a case study or helping develop new guidance on AI in social care. 

You'll work closely with colleagues across Digital Care Hub and our national partners, taking an entrepreneurial approach to identifying emerging issues, generating insight and turning evidence into action. You'll report directly to the Chief Executive Officer and will have the opportunity to shape the development of our research and policy function as the organisation continues to grow. 

Key Responsibilities 

Research and Insight 

• Design and deliver research projects. 

• Develop surveys and analyse data. 

• Conduct interviews and focus groups. 

• Facilitate provider roundtables. 

• Review policy and academic literature. 

• Produce evidence summaries. 

• Identify emerging issues across digital health and adult social care. 

Policy Development 

• Draft policy papers and consultation responses. 

• Translate research into practical recommendations. 

• Produce briefings for government, boards and senior leaders. 

• Track developments across DHSC, NHS England, CQC and ICO. 

• Support Digital Care Hub policy positions. 

Programme Delivery 

• Support grant funded programmes. 

• Develop guidance and resources. 

• Produce webinar materials and case studies. 

• Coordinate advisory groups. 

• Support monitoring and evaluation. 

Stakeholder Engagement 

• Build relationships with providers and representative bodies. 

• Collaborate with universities, government and sector partners. 

• Engage technology suppliers where appropriate. 

Communications 

• Write reports, briefings and newsletters. 

• Draft articles and presentations. 

• Support thought leadership. 

Monitoring and Evaluation 

• Develop outcome measures. 

• Analyse programme impact. 

• Produce evaluation reports. 

• Identify lessons learned. 

Person Specification 

Essential 

• Degree or equivalent experience. 

• Experience designing research projects. 

• Strong qualitative and quantitative research skills. 

• Excellent written communication. 

• Ability to explain complex subjects clearly. 

• Excellent organisational skills. 

Desirable 

• Charity experience. 

• Knowledge of digital transformation. 

• Understanding of AI and cybersecurity. 

• Experience evaluating programmes. 

• Experience working with government. 

 
Main terms and conditions 

• £36,000 per annum including pension. 

• Full timefixed term12 month fixed term contract 

• Homebased,withsometravelacross England 

• 28 days annual leave plus Bank holidays 

Lead change. Shape policy. Amplify the voices of bereaved families.

Child Bereavement UK is looking for an accomplished Head of Policy & Research to lead our evidence and policy agenda at a pivotal time for the charity.

You'll bring a strong track record of leading policy and research activity, developing influential partnerships, and translating evidence into meaningful change. With an established understanding of the policy landscape and the credibility to engage senior stakeholders across health, social care, government and the voluntary sector, you'll play a key role in shaping policy and practice for bereaved families across the UK.

You'll lead our research programme, develop evidence-based positions, build strategic partnerships, and ensure the experiences of bereaved children, young people and parents bereaved of a baby or child are reflected in policy and practice across the UK.

We're looking for someone who:

• Has experience and established networks in policy and research.
• Can translate complex evidence into compelling recommendations for change.
• Is an exceptional relationship-builder, communicator and strategic thinker.
• Is passionate about improving outcomes for bereaved children, young people and parents.

This is a rare opportunity to shape national conversations, influence decision-makers and ensure lived experience is at the heart of policy and practice.

Please note, the role will involve regular travel to London based conferences, events and network meetings as required, plus occasional travel to team meetings in Birmingham.

Join us and help create lasting change for bereaved families across the UK.

Head of Research and Policy
£45,000–£50,000
London (office-based with UK travel)
Full-time, Permanent

Our client is a UK-registered charity dedicated to tackling anti-Muslim hate and supporting those affected by it. Through victim support, research, community engagement and policy influence, the work to challenge Islamophobia and create lasting change.

As the Trust expands its national reach, they are strengthening the senior leadership team to increase its impact, deepen the evidence base and ensure the voices and experiences of Muslim communities are reflected in public policy and practice.

Prospectus is pleased to be working with our client to recruit a Head of Research & Policy to join the team based in

The Role
The Head of Research and Policy will lead the trust's research, evidence and advocacy work.

Reporting to the CEO, you will develop and deliver the trust's research agenda, including flagship reports on the scale and impact of anti-Muslim hate. You will turn evidence into influential policy positions, lead engagement with government, parliament, statutory agencies and the media, and ensure that the lived experiences of those the Trust support informs policy and practice.

Working closely with the CEO and COO, you will strengthen the trust's reputation as a trusted voice on anti-Muslim hate, producing high-quality research, policy briefings and consultation responses while supporting organisational growth and impact. As a member of the senior leadership team, you will also contribute to strategic planning, managing budgets and overseeing the development of the research and policy function.

This person will work closely with a Research and Campaigns Officer to deliver on overall objectives.

The Person
The successful candidate will bring significant experience in research, policy, public affairs and advocacy, ideally within the charity, equality, human rights or community sectors. You will have a strong understanding of the issues facing Muslim communities in the UK and a proven ability to use evidence to influence policy and decision-makers.

An outstanding communicator and analytical thinker, you will be confident interpreting complex data, engaging senior stakeholders and producing compelling written outputs for a wide range of audiences. A confident public speaker, you will be comfortable presenting to government officials, parliamentarians and the media whilst also able to mobilise others to advocate and campaign. You will possess sound judgement, integrity and sensitivity when dealing with confidential information, delicate issues and vulnerable individuals. Most importantly, you will share the trust's commitment to compassion, integrity, inclusion, courage and collaboration, and will be passionate about advancing equality and tackling anti-Muslim hate.

The organisation & Prospectus are both committed to creating a diverse, inclusive and equitable workplace. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and particularly encourage applications from individuals with lived experience of the issues affecting the communities the trust serves. Recruitment decisions are made solely on merit, and reasonable adjustments will be provided throughout the recruitment process where needed.

 

We are seeking an agile and collaborative Policy and Communications Officer to join our small but mighty team. The Policy and Communications Officer will sit at the heart of CJA’s impact, combining policy research, member engagement, and digital communications to amplify our work and effect systemic change. They will prepare and distribute the weekly CJA e-bulletin; create engaging digital content across social media; draft CJA policy responses, briefings, and consultation submissions; undertake desk research on priority areas (such as policing accountability, diversion, and racial disparities) and assist in co-ordinating member meetings, policy roundtables, and events.

This is an exciting and varied role created at a pivotal moment as we approach our 20th anniversary and begin developing our 2027-30 strategy.

Would you like to help create a brighter future for nature? 

Wildlife and Countryside Link is a coalition of 97 environmental charities. We are looking for a Policy and Public Affairs Officer to help develop, advocate and win policy improvements for nature, with a particular focus on the marine environment. 

The Government has promised to halt the decline of wildlife and protect 30% of land and sea for nature by 2030. The marine environment is on the frontline of action – how can we restore habitats at the same time as huge investment in renewable energy? How can we restore fish stocks in a way that supports the future of coastal communities? How can we lead the way on reducing the pollution that is blighting our seas?

We are looking for an enthusiastic and dedicated Policy and Public Affairs Officer to help environmental organisations agree bold answers to key questions like these. This role will manage our marine, bycatch and marine mammal working groups to secure ambitious progress of protection and recovery of the marine environment. This is an exciting opportunity to be to work alongside some of the leading experts in marine policy to deliver joint policy that will transform nature at sea.

You will also play a key role in delivering environmental priorities to key influencers in Government and in Parliament. 

So, we are looking for someone with a keen eye for detail, a good networker with the ability to listen and negotiate, and a reasoned and convincing style of written and verbal communication, with a passion for nature conservation.

Who we are

IPSEA (Independent Provider of Special Education Advice) is a national charity working to ensure that children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) receive the educational support they are legally entitled to. Since we were formed in 1983, we have helped to improve the education experience of thousands of children and young people across England. We do this by providing free and independent legal advice and casework support for families, undertaking policy work and delivering training on the SEND legal framework.

What you’ll do

Reports to: Chief Executive

Location: Home-based or Hybrid (with frequent travel for events and meeting with parliamentarians and other stakeholders) 

We are seeking a Policy Manager to lead IPSEA's policy and influencing work to achieve positive change for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and their families. Working closely with the Chief Executive, Head of Legal and Training, trustees and colleagues across the organisation, you will set strategic policy priorities and develop evidence-based influencing plans that support IPSEA's mission and long-term objectives.

Drawing on insights from our advice and tribunal services, legal expertise and the experiences of families, you will identify systemic issues within the SEND system and develop policy solutions that improve children and young people's access to the support and education to which they are entitled. You will ensure that IPSEA's policy positions are credible, legally robust and informed by the lived experiences of those we support.

You will lead IPSEA's engagement with government, Parliament and other key decision-makers, identifying opportunities to influence legislation, policy and practice at both national and local level. This includes overseeing responses to consultations, parliamentary inquiries and calls for evidence, as well as preparing briefings and strategic advice to support senior-level engagement and advocacy.

Working collaboratively with colleagues across legal, communications, fundraising and training teams, you will ensure IPSEA's policy, campaigning and public affairs activities are aligned and maximise the organisation's impact. You will also monitor developments across the political, legal and policy landscape, helping IPSEA respond proactively to emerging opportunities and challenges affecting the rights of children and young people with SEND.

This role offers the opportunity to make a real difference as part of a small, friendly, and dedicated team. If you are passionate about helping children and young people with SEND and have the skills and experience needed, we would love to hear from you.

Who are we looking for?

You will have significant experience in a senior policy and campaigning/public affairs role and have good knowledge of local and national government structure including the legislative process.

You the ability to build and maintain relationships with a range of stakeholders including MPs, civil servants, campaigners and parents. You exhibit tact and diplomacy and can be impactful with people of varying levels and experience.

Your research and critical thinking skills enable you to analyse policy and data to produce relevant reports and position papers. You have experience of drafting organisation responses to government consultations and parliamentary calls for evidence.

IPSEA should also reflect the communities we support. We would particularly like to hear from candidates from ethnic minority backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ people, under-served communities and disabled people, as well as those with lived experience of the SEND system, either as a child or as a parent/carer.

What we can offer you

• 5% employer pension contributions
• Healthcare cash plan
• Flexible working arrangements
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays plus an additional day off for your birthday (pro-rata if part-time).

To apply

Visit our website to download a recruitment pack and application form.

Deadline for applications: 9am on 7 September 2026.

First-round interviews: on 15 September 2026 in our offices in Takeley, Essex, with second-round interviews (online) on 18 September 2026.

NO AGENCIES PLEASE.

For over 60 years the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) has been building a better childhood for all.

Policy and Public Affairs Officer
Contract: Permanent
Work Pattern: Full Time, 35 hours per week (1.0 FTE) (We are open to flexible hours and working patterns, including accommodating part-time and compressed hours where possible).
Salary: £37,198 per annum
Location: London Fields, E8. NCB promotes a hybrid, flexible way of working with 1 day working in the office.

The Vacancy

We are currently recruiting two Policy and Public Affairs Officers.

The Policy and Public Affairs Officer will play an important role in delivering NCB’s policy and public affairs priorities. This role will develop evidence-based policy positions through analysis, research, and collaboration with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders. It will advance these positions by producing high-quality policy papers, reports, consultation responses, and blogs.

The role will support NCB’s engagement with key policy coalitions and decision-makers. Through collaboration with colleagues and external partners, it will ensure that the views of children, young people, and parents are represented in NCB’s policy development and public affairs.

About NCB

For more than 60 years, the National Children’s Bureau has championed the rights and amplified the voice of children and young people in the UK. We interrogate policy and uncover evidence, blending in lived and learnt experience to shape future legislation and develop more effective ways of supporting children and families.

Bringing people and organisations together is fundamental to how we improve the systems that babies, children, young people and their families rely on to thrive. We push boundaries, even looking beyond childhood itself to consider transitions into adulthood and the impact of childhood issues on an entire lifespan. We are united for better childhoods and brighter futures.

The Benefits

• 30 Days Annual Leave
• Generous Pension Scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Flexible Working
• Winter Holiday Closure & Break
• Employee Assistance Programme

Applications close at 08:00am on Monday, 17 August 2026.
Assessment and interview dates are to be confirmed.
Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications as soon as possible.

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

We are actively seeking to broaden the diversity of our staff group and warmly welcome applications from candidates underrepresented in the charity sector, including those from Black and Global Majority communities, disabled people, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with lived experience of the issues NCB works on.

No agencies please.

For over 60 years the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) has been building a better childhood for all.

Policy and Communications Officer
Contract: Permanent
Work Pattern: Full Time, 35 hours per week (1.0 FTE) (We are open to flexible hours and working patterns, including accommodating part-time and compressed hours where possible).
Salary: £37,198.00 per annum
Location: London Fields, E8. NCB promotes a hybrid, flexible way of working with 2 days working in the office.

The Vacancy

The Policy and Communications Officer will deliver key elements of NCB’s core and funded project work across policy, public affairs and communications. The position will play an important delivery role to enhance our visibility and impact across key policy areas, and to bring lived and learned experiences to the heart of our influencing.

This role will work to elevate our profile, transforming our evidence and expertise into impactful communications and influencing to build a momentum for meaningful policy, legislative and social change. This position will contribute to bridging the gap between NCB’s evidence-based policy development and national advocacy, translating complex policy issues into powerful narratives that resonate with decision-makers and galvanise wider support.

About NCB

For more than 60 years, the National Children’s Bureau has championed the rights and amplified the voice of children and young people in the UK. We interrogate policy and uncover evidence, blending in lived and learnt experience to shape future legislation and develop more effective ways of supporting children and families.

Bringing people and organisations together is fundamental to how we improve the systems that babies, children, young people and their families rely on to thrive. We push boundaries, even looking beyond childhood itself to consider transitions into adulthood and the impact of childhood issues on an entire lifespan. We are united for better childhoods and brighter futures.

The Benefits

• 30 Days Annual Leave
• Generous Pension Scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Flexible Working
• Winter Holiday Closure & Break
• Employee Assistance Programme

Applications close at 08:00am on Monday, 17 August 2026.
Assessment and interview dates are to be confirmed.
Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications as soon as possible.

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

We are actively seeking to broaden the diversity of our staff group and warmly welcome applications from candidates underrepresented in the charity sector, including those from Black and Global Majority communities, disabled people, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with lived experience of the issues NCB works on.

No agencies please.