Policy research officer jobs in London, greater london
This is an exciting role leading our committed policy team leading the fight to end child poverty in the UK. The development and implementation of a UK-wide cross-government child poverty strategy means this is a great time to join CPAG as we look to influence policy makers to adopt our evidence-based policy solutions to child poverty.
We are looking for someone to take a lead role in developing evidence-based policy positions to support CPAG’s influencing and campaigns work. You will have knowledge of political processes and how external organisations can effect change. You will have a track record of producing high quality research and analysis, including policy briefings, on social policy issues. You will have experience of managing a small team and working collaboratively to identify policy issues and develop solutions with colleagues across the organisation, as well as externally.
The postholder will be working in a fast moving, high profile and complex policy environment and will need to balance short term priorities with long term objectives. Current priorities include influencing the implementation of the forthcoming child poverty strategy, gathering and sharing analysis and expertise with the DWP as part of their review of universal credit, and monitoring the development of forthcoming changes to disability benefits.
We welcome applications from individuals with the skills and experience outlined and we can be flexible about working arrangements. We operate a hybrid working system and would be happy to discuss any flexibilities required. CPAG is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion which you can read more about in the job pack.
We welcome applications on a secondment basis.
For more information about this post and to apply download the Head of Policy job pack.
If you have questions or need specific arrangements or reasonable adjustments to take part in the selection process, please contact us.
Closing date for applications: Sunday 4th January 2026 (midnight)
Interviews will take place: Tuesday 13th January 2026
Child Poverty Action Group works to prevent and end child poverty – for good.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Would you like to join an organisation that is striving for systemic change? We believe it is not enough to reform structures and systems which are foundationally discriminatory. We are calling for a complete overhaul, and for people with lived experience to lead that change.
If that appeals to you. We are seeking a Policy and Communications Officer to play a vital role in shaping public understanding of migration and influencing policy.
As part of our dedicated team, you will have the chance to make a real impact, engaging with diverse audiences and advocating for positive change. If you're motivated by social justice and have skills in policy engagement, digital campaigning, media, and stakeholder engagement, we want to hear from you.
The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in contributing to a vision for intersectional campaigns that call for systemic change, and for those with lived experience to be instrumental in these campaigns.
As a lived experience and values-led organisation, and diverse team, we are looking for candidates with a:
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Commitment to upholding the rights of ALL migrants
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Real vision as to how this can be done in the current political, social and economic climate
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A commitment to MRN's vision and values
The salary will be £32,414 per year. In addition, MRN contributes up to 6% of salary to pensions.
Closing date for applications: 9am, 14 January 2026
Date for candidate interviews: 22-23 January 2026
We are a charity and campaigning organisation that stands in solidarity with all migrants in their fights for rights and justice.

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
AMR Action UK is the United Kingdom patient organisation for people impacted by antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Our legitimacy comes through our small-scale research projects, our engagement with patients and their families, and from our direct support of patients through our information service and peer-support activities.
AMR Action UK seeks to empower patient, families, and carers to have their voices heard on matters that affect their lives and to be able to influence research priorities, policy and implementation changes at government level, and changes in NHS practices across the four nations of the UK.
The Policy and Advocacy lead will ensure that AMR Action UK is both well-informed across the broad-spectrum of topics relating to AMR and is impactful in its influencing work.
To be successful in the role you will need energy and enthusiasm to hit the ground running in order to make an immediate impact on appointment.
Closing date 12th January 2026, with a view to holding interviews week beginning 19th January 2026.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Would you like to join an organisation that is striving for systemic change? We believe it is not enough to reform structures and systems which are foundationally discriminatory. We are calling for a complete overhaul, and for people with lived experience to lead that change.
Migration is one of the most hotly debated political topics with rapid policy changes shaping the lives of millions. We’re looking for a proactive and inspiring leader to join us as Interim Head of Policy and Communications.
In this vital role, you will champion our mission to create a just society for all migrants, ensuring those with lived experience are at the centre of our work and heard by policymakers and supporters alike. You will influence national policies, engage diverse stakeholders, from policymakers to grassroots groups, and build impactful communication campaigns.
Working closely with our CEO and as part of the Senior Leadership Team, you will help shape the strategic direction of our policy and communication efforts during this critical time.
The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in contributing to a vision for intersectional campaigns that call for systemic change, and for those with lived experience to lead the changes we need.
If you’re passionate about social justice, experienced in policy and advocacy, and a skilled communicator, we want to hear from you!
As a lived experience and values-led organisation, and diverse team, we are looking for candidates with a:
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Commitment to upholding the rights of ALL migrants
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Real vision as to how this can be done in the current political, social and economic climate
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A commitment to MRN's vision and values
The salary will be £43,817 per annum, pro-rata. In addition, MRN contributes up to 6% of salary to pensions. We are keen to have someone start in the role immediately.
Closing date for applications: 9am, 14 January 2026
Date for candidate interviews: 26 January 2026
We are a charity and campaigning organisation that stands in solidarity with all migrants in their fights for rights and justice.

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Do you have the skills to develop clear, impactful policy that helps drive meaningful change? We’re looking for a Policy Officer to play a vital role in shaping Shelter’s policy agenda and strengthening our voice in the fight for home.
About the role
This is a great opportunity for someone who wants to use their policy skills to help end homelessness and improve housing in England. Working as part of Shelter’s Policy Team, you will be responsible for helping to develop Shelter’s policy and responding to government initiatives on a range of housing policy areas. It includes helping to develop innovative and workable proactive policy solutions to fix the housing emergency.
Role specifics
You’ll bring strong knowledge of social or economic policy and the ability to analyse complex issues in a wider context. You’ll have experience working with both quantitative and qualitative evidence to identify trends and develop clear, evidence-based solutions to structural social problems. You’ll also be confident in producing policy analysis that supports communications, campaign goals and the wider political landscape. A passion for tackling inequality and insight into the challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness, and an anti-racist approach to your work would all be valuable.
Apply to be part of our team and be the change you want to see in society.
Benefits
We offer a wide range of benefits, including 30 days of annual leave, enhanced family friendly policies, pension and interest free travel loans. Our employees also have access to a tenancy deposit loan, payroll giving, cycle to work scheme and an employee assistance programme.
We are happy to talk about flexible working, personal growth, and to promote a workplace where you can be yourself and achieve success based only on your merit.
About the team
The team is seven people strong and sits within the Advocacy and Activism branch of the Communications, Policy and Campaigns division. Using the latest data, research and intelligence from our services, and working with people with lived experience, we analyse the problems in our housing system and identify effective and creative solutions.
About Shelter
Home is a human right. It’s our foundation and where we thrive. Yet everyday millions of people engaged in the housing emergency.
We exist to defend the right to a safe home. Because home is everything.
We need ambitious, passionate people to join us. This is your chance to play a part in the fundamental change we are striving to achieve.
Our enemy is the social injustice at the core of the escalating housing emergency. To win this fight, we must be representative of the people we are here to help and those who support our movement. In all our people decisions, we take pride in being inclusive, equitable and transparent. We are committed to combating racism both within and outside Shelter. We welcome you on our journey to becoming truly anti-racist.
Safeguarding statement
Safeguarding is everyone's business. Shelter is committed to protecting the health, wellbeing and human rights of those we support, and enabling them to live free from harm, abuse and neglect. All our staff will be expected to observe professional standards of behaviour and conduct their work in line with our Safeguarding Policies.
Shelter does not accept unsolicited CVs from external recruitment agencies nor accept the fees associated with them.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Salary: £33,765 - £37,000 per annum depending on experience.
Hours: Full-time and permanent. 35 hours per week
Place of work: Hybrid with a minimum requirement of 12 in-person days per annum. In addition, there will be a requirement to attend site visits, conferences and events as required.
Join Our Team!
We’re looking for someone to join us on a permanent basis in the New Year to support the delivery of the charity’s research aims in accordance with the research strategy. This includes our programme of grants, working with networks and partners to drive increased investment in research for people with Crohn’s and Colitis and our work to support increased patient and public involvement in research.
About Us
We're the UK's leading charity for Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. Right now, an estimated 500,000 people in the UK are living with a lifelong disease many people have never heard of and for which there is no known cure. Because of the stigma and misunderstanding surrounding these diseases, thousands of people are suffering in silence. But we’re here to support and champion their cause and our ambitious plans will help to make a real difference.
About You
You’ll have experience of research administration or management at a University, Research Institute or funding organisation and of supporting patient and public involvement in research or as part of quality improvement projects in a UK-wide healthcare context. You’ll have proven communication and team-working skills and can evidence your ability to horizon scan and network to keep up to date with research and quality improvement developments. We’re looking for candidates who ideally have experience of working in health/science research environments and a knowledge of project management methodology. A knowledge of the needs of people affected by Crohn’s and Colitis would also be an advantage.
If you like the sound of our role then this could be an opportunity to join a leading charity as we enter the next stage of growth and expansion.
Please see our Recruitment Pack for details of our full Job Description and Person Specification.
Our Location
We are based in Hatfield, Hertfordshire, so we are easily accessible by road and rail. In this role, there is plenty of scope for a hybrid approach working from home, although there will be times when you will need to be at face-to-face meetings in Hatfield or across the UK. There is a requirement for you to attend a minimum of 12 in person days a year, including two Directorate meetings and the charity’s mandatory ‘All Staff Together’ days which take place four times a year at our offices in Hatfield or a location in London. In addition, there will be a requirement to attend site visits, conferences and events as required.
Benefits
- 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing one day per year up to 30 days
- Salary Sacrifice Pension scheme
- Flexible working options
- Enhanced maternity, adoption and paternity pay
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
- Wellbeing programme
- Interest free loan for season tickets
- Cycle to work scheme
- Free parking and secure bike locks at the Hatfield office
- Training and development financial support and/or study leave
- Performance review and development scheme
We are an inclusive employer and offer equal opportunities to all regardless of an individual’s age, disability, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership status, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation.
We are not a licensed sponsor at this time. Any offer of employment will be made subject to the applicant residing in the UK and a valid right to work in the UK being provided.
We will not be accepting any contact from Recruitment Agencies or Media Sales
If you have any queries about this role, would like to have a conversation before formally applying, or if you have a disability and wish to request a reasonable adjustment at any stage of the recruitment process, please contact Cristina Lujan Barroso, Research Manager. Please see recruitment pack for her contact details.
Please note the charity will be closed over the period 25/12/2025 to 1/1/2026 inclusive, but we will be returning on 2 January 2026 should you have any queries
Please submit a CV and supporting statement outlining why you’d like to apply, how you fulfil the person specification, and what you feel you will bring to the role, so you’ll need to refer to the Recruitment Pack found on our website.
We break taboos, drive pioneering research, bring people together & campaign to improve lives. We are leading the fight against Crohn's & Colitis
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Location: Hybrid working - Part London office-based and part home working. The post holder will work a minimum of one day a week in the office.
Salary: £31,800 per annum
Hours: 35 hours per week
Closing date: Tuesday 13 January 2026 at 10.00am
Interview date: Wednesday 21 January 2026
This is a 6-month fixed-term maternity cover.
Who we are looking for
Breakthrough T1D is the UK’s leading type 1 diabetes charity, dedicated to funding research, advocating for change, and supporting the T1D community. A year into our exciting rebrand from JDRF to Breakthrough T1D, we’re looking for an enthusiastic and motivated Corporate Partnerships Officer to help us build on this momentum.
An experienced corporate fundraiser or business to business sales professional, you will have generated income from partnerships before in similar roles. You will be target focused and able to use a wide range of corporate and commercial products to secure, retain, develop and grow long term income generating partnerships. You will be ever-curious, always seeking to improve your skills and adopt new approaches.
Experience required
You’ll have previous experience of:
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working in fundraising or experience of working in an income generating position in a client facing role
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developing relationships with key clients and individuals
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managing multiple client accounts in a commercial and/or charity setting and maximising income from these through proactive stewardship
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researching and developing new business opportunities
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the development and delivery of compelling proposals, presentations and pitches
About Breakthrough T1D
Breakthrough T1D is the world’s leading charitable research funder into type 1 diabetes, improving lives until we find the cure. We are dedicated to our 400,000 strong type 1 community in the UK and work closely with our international affiliates across the world, including the US, Canada and Australia.
You will find a vibrant atmosphere and spirited team at Breakthrough T1D, always striving to make a difference to people living with type 1.
Employee benefits
As an employer we offer:
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Hybrid working arrangements
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Flexible working and will consider compressed hours
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Generous annual leave entitlement – 25 days per year plus bank holidays for full-time staff with leave increasing after three and five years’ service
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Health cash plan that allows you to claim for some treatments such as dental, optical and physiotherapy treatment
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Season ticket and cycle loan
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Pension scheme
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Family-friendly policies – maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave at enhanced rates
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Personalised training to suit your career aspirations and professional development
Breakthrough T1D is an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applications from all individuals regardless of race, gender, disability, religious belief, sexual orientation or age.
At Breakthrough T1D we do understand that AI (Artificial Intelligence platforms like ChatGPT) can be a useful tool for candidates to assist in applying for our roles. We ask that applicants do ensure their authentic voice is present, and we look forward to seeing examples of your specific experience.
Improving lives today and tomorrow by accelerating life-changing breakthroughs to treat, prevent, and, ultimately, cure T1D and its complications
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Join the RCR Learning Team as our Operations Officer and play a pivotal role in driving operational excellence and innovation. This is a central position supporting the team’s strategic objectives, governance, and day-to-day activities. You’ll lead operational improvement projects, manage key business processes, and deliver outstanding customer service to both internal and external stakeholders.
What You’ll Do
As Operations Officer, you’ll be at the heart of our operations, ensuring the team runs smoothly and efficiently. Key responsibilities include:
- Operational Leadership: Streamline daily activities, embed standard operating procedures, and drive efficiency improvements.
- Governance Support: Oversee governance structures, lead secretariat duties for committees, and ensure compliance with RCR policies.
- Project Management: Scope, initiate, and deliver projects aligned with strategic objectives, managing risks and timelines effectively.
- Data & Reporting: Manage CRM systems, produce evaluation reports, and ensure compliance with data protection legislation.
- Recruitment & Onboarding: Support recruitment of staff and voluntary contributors, ensuring a welcoming and consistent experience.
- Collaboration: Work closely with colleagues, subject matter experts, and external partners to deliver high-quality learning experiences.
About You
We’re looking for someone who:
- Has strong project management skills and thrives in a dynamic environment.
- Brings a proactive, solution-focused approach to operational challenges.
- Is passionate about continuous improvement and innovation.
- Communicates effectively with senior stakeholders and external partners.
- Has experience managing systems, processes, and governance activities.
Why join us
- Make a difference to the lives of Doctors and the specialities they work in every day!
- Hybrid working (60% working week can be done remotely)
- Modern working environment
- Equipment provided to work from home
- Generous annual leave allowance
- Excellent pension scheme
- Interest free season ticket loan and cycle to work scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme
White Ribbon is the leading organisation in the UK working to engage men and boys in ending violence against women and girls. Our mission is to prevent men’s violence against women through addressing its root causes, gender inequality and harmful gender norms and stereotypes. We do this by working with individual men and boys, organisations, and the community, helping them to understand the scale of the problem, and how they can be part of the solution.
This is an exciting time to join White Ribbon as our work and profile has grown significantly over recent years as the importance of engaging men in ending violence has become more apparent. We have an increasing public presence, through campaigning activities, policy influence, in the media and online.
Location: This is a London based post, with remote working. Most frequent and regular networking and partnership meetings and events will be in London, with some travel throughout England and Wales, particularly around the White Ribbon Day period. You will be required to attend occasional meetings with the staff team at various locations around the country, including quarterly in West Yorkshire.
You will lead our policy work to influence decision makers and our awareness raising campaigns, including our flagship White Ribbon Day and the following 16 days of activism, with ambitious engagement targets across a wide group of stakeholders. Your work will bring about demonstrable societal and policy change.
Please see the full job description and person specification attached.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The postholder will play a key role in advancing the communications, campaigns and public affairs work of Southall Black Sisters (SBS), strengthening the organisation’s public profile and amplifying its mission to end violence against women and girls (VAWG), particularly as it affects Black, minoritised and migrant women.
The role will support the development and delivery of strategic communications and campaigns that promote SBS’s services, policy priorities and advocacy work, with particular attention to immigration and no recourse to public funds (NRPF). Working collaboratively with SBS colleagues, project partners and, where appropriate, victim-survivors, the postholder will help ensure SBS’s communications are impactful, ethical and grounded in lived experience.
Through creative and strategic use of digital, media and public-facing platforms, the postholder will contribute to raising awareness, influencing public discourse and strengthening protections and rights for Black, minoritised and migrant victim-survivors.
Why work with Southall Black Sisters?
Southall Black Sisters is committed to providing a supportive working environment, where team members feel valued, empowered and safe. To that end, we provide an excellent package of employee benefits including:
- Generous annual leave entitlement
- Hybrid working
- Enhanced pension contribution
- Enhanced sick pay
- Subsidised public transport season ticket
- A comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme, including access to confidential support from MBACP therapists
- Clinical supervision with an MBACP therapist to explore issues arising from casework
- A focus on continued learning and development through accredited training delivered by experts in their field
- Organisation-wide away days
- Career development pathways and support
- The opportunity to learn and grow within an organisation renowned for inspiring political activism and campaigning successes
- Employer eye care scheme
To Apply
Submit a completed application form along with the optional equal opportunities monitoring form by the application deadline. Please do not send us your CV as this will not be considered.
Please note, incomplete applications will not be considered.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Purpose of the Role
The HR Officer provides comprehensive HR support across the organisation, ensuring best practice and compliance with employment legislation. This role covers the full employee lifecycle, HR administration & HR system admin, policy implementation, and coordinating employee engagement initiatives, while contributing to long-term HR projects and organisational change.
Key Responsibilities
Employee Lifecycle Management
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Act as the first point of contact for employee queries and concerns.
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Coordinate recruitment processes, including building job packs, setting up roles on BrightHR, advertising vacancies, and supporting shortlisting.
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Schedule and coordinate interviews.
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Prepare employment contracts and issue HR letters (e.g., annual pay reviews, leave requests).
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Manage pre-employment checks and ensure new employees receive starter information.
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Plan and oversee induction for all new staff.
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Support probation reviews and oversee the bi-annual appraisal processes.
HR Administration
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Maintain accurate employee records in BrightHR and BrightSafe.
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Complete regular HR admin activities and manage queries from staff and managers.
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Track and report monthly staff absence data.
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Inform the payroll bureau of monthly changes affecting pay (salary/hour changes, joiner/leaver, bank account changes, maternity, sickness, etc.) and liaise with Finance to verify payroll.
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Ensure Data Protection procedures are followed for all HR records.
Policy & Compliance
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Support the implementation and periodic review of HR policies and procedures.
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Maintaining the policy register.
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Conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with employment legislation.
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Provide advice and guidance to managers and staff on HR policies and legal obligations.
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Ensuring DBS checks are carried out for colleagues having access to children’s data and visiting schools
Employee Engagement & Wellbeing
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Help coordinate the wellbeing committee.
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Promote staff benefits, including eye care vouchers, pension schemes, and electric car salary sacrifice.
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Manage the staff training programme in BrightHR and BrightSafe, ensuring completion of mandatory training and promoting non-mandatory development opportunities.
Projects & Organisational Development
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Lead and support HR projects to improve processes and systems.
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Assist with organisational change initiatives and contribute to HR strategy development.
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Support long-term projects such as benefits review and pension provider transition.
Offboarding
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Handle the leaver process, ensuring smooth offboarding and accurate record updates.
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Ensuring the exit interview is carried out, share with the line managers and ELT
Supporting ELT (approximately 5 hours per week)
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Coordinating multi-calendar meetings
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Analysis and research to support initiatives
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Coordinating projects
Skills & Experience
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CIPD Level 5 (preferred)
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Strong knowledge of HR best practices and employment legislation.
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Excellent organisational and communication skills.
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Ability to manage multiple priorities and work collaboratively with managers and staff.
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Knowledge and skills in managing an HR system.
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Experience in HR administration and employee relations.
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Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Are you fiercely dedicated to Indigenous peoples’ rights, a fluent Spanish speaker, and ready to put your networking, analytical, and strategic skills to use as part of a dynamic international campaign team? Survival International is offering a rare opportunity to join our Research and Advocacy Department, working primarily on our campaigns for the rights of uncontacted Indigenous peoples in Spanish-speaking South America.
This is a chance to join a deeply committed Indigenous rights campaigning organisation that regularly takes on powerful targets and wins. We are looking for a creative, strategic and focused research and policy person to join us at either Officer or Assistant level. You can be part of combating the violent colonialism and land theft that is threatening Indigenous peoples worldwide – one of the most urgent crises of our time.
For further details and how to apply, please see the job description and application form. The application form is downloadable via the 'How to apply' button.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
5Rights is seeking to recruit an exceptional, UK-based Policy and Public Affairs professional to take forward our ground-breaking digital policy and corporate accountability work.
About 5Rights
5Rights Foundation exists to ensure a digital world that will serve children and young people today and for future generations. We are a small team of senior professionals and experts delivering change in how the digital world works. We have shifted the narrative and the agenda through provocative comms campaigns (e.g. Twisted Toys), pioneering research (e.g. Pathways) and award-winning tools (e.g. Child Online Safety Toolkit). We continue to drive real-life change thanks to an outstanding track-record of delivering legislation (e.g. Californian Age Appropriate Design Code), policy and regulatory frameworks (e.g. UNCRC General comment No.25), and industry standards (e.g. IEEE 2089).
Role Purpose
We are seeking to recruit an ambitious and driven Public Affairs Officer to support the delivery of our advocacy strategy in the UK. Reporting to the Head of UK Affairs, you will play a vital role in analysing policy and political developments, crafting engaging briefings and reports, and nurturing relationships with essential stakeholders in civil society and politics.
Key Responsibilities
The core responsibilities and tasks are:
- To lead on analysis of UK policy and political developments and legislative and regulatory materials.
- To support on drafting briefings, position papers, consultation responses and reports in line with 5Rights positions.
- To support in building and maintaining relationships important to the UK team’s work with key partners, political stakeholders, and stakeholders in civil society and beyond, both individually and as part of coalitions.
- To support on briefing political stakeholders, senior colleagues, or external partners on 5Rights positions and take the lead on arranging events for a range of different audiences.
- To support with the organisation of the UK team, including arranging internal and external briefings, creating, and maintaining stakeholder lists, research depositories and other databases as are relevant.
- To support on creating content for social media and external channels.
Person specification
- You will have at least two years’ experience in a public affairs, UK parliament or other relevant role.
- You will have an understanding of the UK parliamentary system and an interest in UK politics.
- You will be a confident and clear communicator, both verbally and in writing.
- You will be well organised with the ability to manage competing tasks and projects at the same time.
- You will be looking to develop new skills and be comfortable working independently on certain projects.
- You will have a commitment to our values and mission.
- You will have an interest in children’s rights, the tech industry and digital services and products.
Practical details
Location: This is a remote-working position based in London, with access to a co-working office space two times per week.
Salary: £34,500 per annum. The final offer will depend on skills and experience.
Working hours: Full time (38 hours per week), with occasional accommodation necessary for work across time-zones.
Statutory pension contribution
25 days annual leave + 1/day per year worked
Work equipment including a laptop will be provided.
Starting date: ASAP, depending on notice period.
Reporting line: Head of UK Affairs, based in the UK
5Rights values diversity and we strongly encourage people from under-represented groups to apply for this role. We aim for our recruitment to be inclusive and equitable, and we strive to constantly learn and improve in this regard.
How to apply
Please send your CV and a brief cover letter via the link on our website by 11th January 2026. Please include where your heard about this role.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Nacro is seeking an experienced and dynamic Head of Policy & Public Affairs to lead our strategic policy development and influencing work with Government, officials, and other key decision-makers. This pivotal role will shape and deliver a high-impact policy and public affairs strategy that improves the lives of the people we support—those affected by the criminal justice system, housing insecurity, and barriers to education.
You will be Nacro’s senior voice in government spaces, the media, and across the public affairs landscape. You will ensure our policy positions are evidence-based, rooted in lived experience, and influential at the highest levels.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Policy & Public Affairs
- Lead Nacro’s strategic policy and public affairs activity with Government, parliamentarians, officials, and other stakeholders.
- Develop and implement a compelling public affairs strategy that drives meaningful change.
- Build and maintain strong, productive relationships with senior policymakers.
- Represent Nacro externally, including with senior stakeholders and in the media.
- Oversee the development of evidence-based policy positions and research projects that support Nacro’s strategic objectives.
- Ensure service user experience informs all policy and influencing work.
- Produce and oversee high-quality policy outputs including consultation responses, briefings, reports, blogs, and media commentary.
- Safeguard Nacro’s reputation as a trusted and authoritative source of insight and expertise.
- Provide strategic political intelligence and advice to the Director of Engagement & Impact and the Chief Executive.
People Leadership
- Lead, motivate, and support a high-performing team, setting clear direction and expectations.
- Model Nacro’s values and behaviours, enabling a positive, inclusive, and accountable culture.
- Manage communication channels effectively, ensuring key organisational messages are understood and cascaded.
- Set objectives, monitor performance, and hold regular one-to-one meetings.
- Support professional development and wellbeing across the team while driving innovation and high standards.
- Take responsibility for all aspects of people management, including recruitment, conduct, performance, and attendance.
- Recognise, reward, and encourage excellent performance.
Leadership Across the Organisation
- Play an active role in the Senior Leadership Team, helping to drive organisational strategy.
- Operate both strategically and operationally, identifying opportunities and risks for Nacro.
Professional Expertise
- Significant senior-level experience in policy and public affairs.
- Strong track record of leading policy campaigns that delivered real impact.
- Excellent political awareness, judgement, and communication skills—both written and verbal.
- Knowledge of criminal justice, education, young people’s policy, or housing policy (desirable).
Performance & Compliance
- Set and deliver directorate performance targets, ensuring effective management of budgets and resources.
- Oversee health & safety responsibilities in your area.
- Contribute to business development and bid work in partnership with relevant teams.
- Ensure accurate and timely record-keeping and reporting.
- Promote and uphold Nacro’s values, safeguarding, data protection, and equality and diversity policies.
- Represent Nacro positively, building strong internal and external relationships.
Why Join Nacro?
We believe that everyone deserves a good education, a safe and secure place to live, the right to be heard, and the chance to start again, with support from someone on their side.
That’s why our housing, education, justice, and health and wellbeing services work alongside people to give them the support and skills they need to succeed. And it’s why we fight for their voices to be heard and campaign together to create lasting change.
We see your future, whatever the past.
If you are a strategic thinker, an influential communicator, and passionate about social justice—we want to hear from you.
Apply now to lead change where it matters most
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Nacro is looking for a committed and politically astute Policy & Public Affairs Officer – Criminal Justice to play a key role in delivering our influencing strategy. You will help shape Nacro’s policy positions on criminal justice issues and deliver proactive and reactive public affairs activity that drives meaningful change for the people we support.
This is an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about social justice, who understands the political landscape and is confident producing high-quality policy materials, engaging with parliamentarians, and representing Nacro externally.
Key Responsibilities
Policy Development
- Monitor and analyse political and policy developments in criminal justice to identify trends, opportunities, and risks.
- Work with service users, staff, and research colleagues to develop evidence-based policy positions.
- Produce high-quality policy briefings, reports, and consultation responses.
- Serve as Nacro’s internal expert on criminal justice policy.
Public Affairs & Influencing
- Develop and deliver a public affairs plan that advances Nacro’s influencing objectives.
- Build and maintain productive relationships with parliamentarians, policymakers, and regional decision-makers.
- Attend and represent Nacro at APPGs, parliamentary meetings, and external events.
- Produce parliamentary briefings and contribute to legislative engagement.
- Organise and coordinate parliamentary and stakeholder events that support influencing goals.
- Work collaboratively with partners across the sector to strengthen joint advocacy.
Communications & Support
- Provide content for media statements, blogs, and external communications.
- Prepare briefings for senior leaders including the Head of Policy & Public Affairs, Director of Engagement & Impact, and CEO.
- Support wider Nacro campaigns and influencing work as required.
Professional & Technical Expertise
- Strong knowledge of criminal justice policy.
- In-depth understanding of Westminster, Whitehall, and political processes.
- Experience designing and delivering effective public affairs activity.
- Demonstrated ability to influence decision-makers.
- Experience working with parliamentarians and developing strong relationships.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills with experience producing policy and campaign materials.
- Strong political awareness and the ability to anticipate developments.
Organisational Performance & Compliance
- Commit to personal learning and development through supervision and appraisal.
- Positively promote Nacro and contribute to an integrated, collaborative team culture focused on supporting service users and students.
- Adhere to safeguarding, data protection, and statutory responsibilities.
- Uphold and promote Nacro’s Equality and Diversity Policy.
- Report any health and safety concerns within your area.
- Demonstrate professional behaviour aligned with Nacro’s values.
Why Join Nacro?
We believe that everyone deserves a good education, a safe and secure place to live, the right to be heard, and the chance to start again, with support from someone on their side.
That’s why our housing, education, justice, and health and wellbeing services work alongside people to give them the support and skills they need to succeed. And it’s why we fight for their voices to be heard and campaign together to create lasting change.
We see your future, whatever the past.
If you’re passionate about driving change, skilled at navigating political environments, and eager to develop your policy and influencing expertise - we’d love to hear from you.
Apply now and help shape a fairer future.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
