Policy research officer jobs in London, greater london
This is a brilliant time to join our Research and Impact team. We are at the start of a new strategy which has learning and development at its heart. We have embedded a strong monitoring, evaluation and learning culture within the organisation and have a highly evolved theory of change. We have a learning plan for the year ahead and a 5-year vision for where we want our learning culture to get to in the next strategy period. Our work is central to BookTrust’s ambition to deepen our impact for children and families, and build our profile, public affairs and income generation work in support of our overall mission.
We are looking for someone committed to and excited by the potential for research and insight to strengthen our impact for children and families, with a specific focus on our work with primary and secondary schools.
The role will suit a mixed methods researcher, with experience of data led problem solving – i.e. analysing and presenting data from a range of sources to develop and test hypotheses, generate insights and help others apply these to shape and inform decisions or drive change. It requires excellent written, verbal, and visual communication skills, and a keen eye for detail. The role requires someone who is happy to work collaboratively and flexibly in a changing environment, potentially changing focus and approaches in line with evolving organisational priorities. It requires high levels of organisation and the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.
This is an early career position, but we are looking for candidates with one or two years’ relevant experience outside academia.
Please apply through our Career’s portal with your CV and a covering letter showing how you meet the person specification and your motivations for applying for the role. Your covering letter should not be longer than two sides.
Please also answer this question in your cover letter:
BookTrust sees good data, and good use of data as key to delivering our strategy. In your application, please tell us: what are some of the principles of good use of data that BookTrust should incorporate into our work? (Even if you use AI for a little help, please focus your answer on the principles that you personally feel are most important.)
Please also attach one or two examples of written outputs (reports, blogs etc) you have produced and also specify if you are applying to be based from our Leeds of London office.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 (UK): Office Hybrid* - London
Hours: Full-time, 35 Hours per week
Salary: £55,155 per annum (London)
Benefits: Read more about the excellent benefits we offer on our website
Contract type: Fixed-term - 2 years
Travel: Occasional travel across the UK including Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland
Closing date: 23:59 hours, Sunday 4 January 2026
Join us and use your skills, knowledge, passion and energy to help us achieve a future free from arthritis.
You will join the UK Advocacy and Health Intelligence Department within the Chief Executive's Directorate. The team is responsible for leading UK strategy development and delivery across advocacy (policy, public affairs, campaigning) and health intelligence, working closely with colleagues across the UK to ensure effective delivery of the strategy in each nation. The department sits in the Chief Executive's Directorate to ensure driving positive change with and for people with arthritis is at the heart of the organisation.
The Department works closely with colleagues across the charity, including Services, Research and Income and Engagement to ensure we are joined up in our approach to arthritis.
About the role
The Researcher is a new, important post at Arthritis UK. Working within our Health Intelligence team, you will lead on providing expertise on the latest relevant research evidence, providing a responsive, robust and balanced assessment of the available evidence and any key gaps to shape the charity's UK advocacy agenda, and drive organisational priorities. Working across a range of issues you will play a crucial role in ensuring that the experiences and needs of people living with arthritis are understood and acted upon, and that arthritis is taken seriously across the UK.
About you
If your knowledge, skills and experience include the following then we'd love to hear from you:
- In-depth knowledge and experience in working in health-related, research.
- Experience in the synthesis and evaluation of research evidence across a range of sources (including grey literature), including in the design and delivery of rapid reviews.
- Experience in communicating clearly and succinctly to non-technical and non-expert audiences, through both written formats (e.g. briefing papers) and verbally (e.g. via presentations and meetings with senior stakeholders), with a robust approach to accessibility throughout communication.
- Demonstrable understanding of how research can be used to shape policy and practice.
- Experience of consistently applying a range of techniques and research methods applicable to framing research questions, evidence review and research evaluation.
- Able to communicate findings and conclusions clearly to non-specialist and specialist audiences.
- Educated to at least master's degree level or equivalent.
*As a hybrid worker the expectation is that you will spend around 40% of your working time in our office spaces or working in community settings. As an inclusive employer we will consider home-based working for anyone where office-based hybrid working would be a barrier to being able to work for us, for example for someone living with a long-term health condition or disability.
Benefits
Your excellent benefits include:
- Flexible hours, environments and working practices to promote a healthy work/life balance.
- Health and wellbeing support - including the Employee Assistance Programme (free confidential 24/7 support with mental health, legal and financial queries).
- Simplyhealth cash plan.
- Supportive and inclusive culture, with a wide range of employee networks and support groups available to join.
- Learning and personal development opportunities.
- Competitive annual leave, with the option to buy/sell up to five days per year.
- Generous pension plan, with employer contribution of up to 10%.
- Life Assurance plan (4 x salary).
Application deadline and shortlisting
We advise candidates to apply early as we reserve the right to close applications ahead of this date.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
We do not wish to receive contact from agencies or media sales.
Please note that we do not use Artificial Intelligence (AI) during our recruitment and selection processes, and we would respectfully ask that you also refrain from using AI during the selection process. Whilst we do recognise that AI may be a beneficial tool for some when aiding research and preparation for an application or interview, we want to maintain a fair, inclusive and positive recruitment experience at Arthritis UK where candidates can feel supported to demonstrate their experience, knowledge, and skills without the use of AI generated answers.
Interview
Interviews are expected be held Thursday 15 January 2026, Arthritis UK London office
As a Disability Confident Leader, we guarantee you will be offered an interview if you disclose a disability and demonstrate sufficient evidence within your application that you meet the essential criteria for this role. We will also make any reasonable adjustments you may require for your interview.
About us
We have made a commitment in our Diversity and Inclusion Strategy to increase the diversity of our charity and we welcome candidates from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences. We want our employees, volunteers and trustees to represent the broad diversity of the communities of which we are a part.
There are over 10 million people living with arthritis. That's one in six, with over half of those living in pain every single day. The impact is huge as the condition slowly intrudes on everyday life - affecting the ability to work, care for a family, to move free from pain and to live independently. Yet arthritis is often dismissed as an inevitable part of ageing or shrugged off as 'just a bit of arthritis'. We don't think that this is OK. Arthritis UK is here to change that.
Arthritis UK is committed to keeping children, young people and vulnerable adults safe from harm. During the recruitment process we will undertake safer recruitment practices and relevant checks to ensure applicants are suitable to work with children, young people and vulnerable adults.
Arthritis UK is a Registered Charity No: 207711 and in Scotland No. SC041156.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Location: Hybrid working Part London office-based and part home based with a minimum of one day a week in the office, or home based
Salary: £31,800 per annum for London based and £29,300 per annum for home based
Hours: 35 hours per week
Closing date: Tuesday 6 January 2026 at 10.00am
Interview date: Thursday 15 January 2026
This is a permanent role.
Who we are looking for
Breakthrough T1D is the UK’s leading type 1 diabetes charity, dedicated to funding research, advocating for change, and supporting the T1D community. A year into our exciting rebrand from JDRF to Breakthrough T1D, we’re looking for a dynamic Community Events Officer to help us build on this momentum.
You will be an enthusiastic person with an eye for detail and the ability to plan, manage and deliver our community events programme. This role will work at the heart of a passionate team, who deliver support and information to people living with type 1 diabetes throughout their type 1 journey. Events are a key opportunity to connect those living with the condition and to share what Breakthrough T1Doffers.
With experience in delivering events, you may have worked for charities before in similar roles. Your role will be to oversee the planning and delivery of our community events, including on-the-day logistics in person and virtually. You will also develop post-event follow-up with participants and strategically evaluate our community events programme, working with the Community Partnerships and Events Lead. There will be opportunities to represent Breakthrough T1D , network and exhibit at external events and develop creative plans and strategy for future events, to support Breakthrough T1D’s ’s aims and mission.
Experience required
You’ll have previous experience of:
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Planning, delivering and evaluating successful community events
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Facilitating virtual events via Zoom or similar online platforms
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Representing an organisation through networking or exhibiting at conferences, community events and other similar functions
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A proven track record working with and managing budgets
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Working within a community and building relationships with volunteers, new and existing supporters and stakeholders
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Demonstrating excellent communication and interpersonal skills
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.
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.
Asylum Justice is the only charity in Wales - and one of very few in the UK - providing free legal advice and representation to people seeking asylum, refugees, and other migrants who are excluded from legal aid. Every day, we help people navigate a hostile system, challenge injustice, and secure safety for themselves and their families.
Demand for our services is higher than ever. In the past year alone, our caseload increased by nearly 50%, and we've taken on more complex, urgent cases - including supporting unaccompanied asylum-seeking children and people at immediate risk of destitution or deportation.
We’re now looking for a Funding Officer to join our small, committed team and help secure the resources we need to sustain and grow our work. This is a chance to make a tangible difference - not just in helping us meet income targets, but in strengthening access to justice for some of the most marginalised people in Wales.
The role is hybrid working (Cardiff office and remote working) but fully remote working may also be considered. We are open to compressed hours or part-time working (minimum 28 hours) for the right candidate. We also welcome applications from people interested in a job share arrangement.
About the role
This is a hands-on, varied role that combines fundraising, relationship management, and impact storytelling. You’ll work closely with our Legal Director and wider team to:
- Research and identify funding opportunities from trusts, foundations, and statutory sources
- Write compelling funding bids and reports that reflect our impact and values
- Maintain excellent relationships with funders and support project coordination with delivery partners
- Coordinate grant reporting and keep accurate records of income, spend, and deadlines
- Support internal monitoring and evaluation to strengthen our evidence base
- Help develop our approach to individual giving, fundraising events, and donor communications
We’re looking for someone who shares our commitment to justice and anti-racism, and who brings strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a collaborative approach.
Who we’re looking for
We don’t expect you to know everything from day one - we’re open to candidates with transferable skills from across the charity, campaigning, or community sectors. You might have experience as a fundraiser, grant writer, project officer, or in a policy/impact role where writing and relationship-building are key.
What matters most is that you're passionate about what we do, committed to equity and inclusion, and eager to learn and contribute.
What we offer
- A supportive, mission-driven team working in solidarity with people seeking asylum
- Flexibility around working days, location, and hours
- An organisational culture that prioritises wellbeing and psychological safety
- The chance to shape an ambitious and growing organisation at a pivotal time
This is an exciting opportunity to steer Asylum Aid at an important time in its 30-year existence. As Executive Director you will be responsible for delivering on our strategy for impact. You will oversee our work to increase access to expert, trauma-informed legal representation to those in the asylum, trafficking and statelessness systems and lead our policy and strategic legal work to achieve systemic change that contributes towards our vision.
You will line manage the Director of Legal Casework to oversee the provision of supportive and enabling leadership to Asylum Aid caseworkers so that they can continue to deliver high quality expert advice in complex cases, while being supported in their professional development and wellbeing. You will also manage and develop the work of our welfare advice team within the Westminster Advice Services Partnership and beyond, and work collaboratively with colleagues in the sector to build capacity and increase our impact.
The ideal candidate, who may be legally qualified, will have experience of leadership in the charity/NGO sector and a sound understanding of the asylum, human rights and trafficking processes in the UK and the legal frameworks which govern the protection of refugees, survivors of trafficking and stateless people, and of the role of law in achieving system change.
We are looking for someone who is strategically minded and passionate about providing supportive and inclusive leadership to our expert team. You will be committed to our objectives and to the role which expert legal representation plays in enabling people in need of protection in the UK to obtain it.
As is the nature of this sector, the role may be exposed to a high volume of traumatic and distressing material and, whilst they will be supported by the Helen Bamber Foundation Group CEO and surrounding team, the candidate should also be able to demonstrate knowledge of good self-care principles in an intense work environment and dissemination of those principles to junior members of the team.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Leadership and strategy
·Be responsible, with the support of the Helen Bamber Foundation Group CEO, for the development, implementation and monitoring of Asylum Aid’s organisational strategy
·Provide leadership and strategic direction at Asylum Aid in accordance with its aims and objectives, with the support of the Director of Legal Casework
·Act as external spokesperson for Asylum Aid, maintaining and strengthening Asylum Aid’s position as a leader in the refugee rights, statelessness and legal aid sectors;
·Work collaboratively with others in the sector to promote and strengthen Asylum Aid’s work, identify and establish potential partnerships, with the support of the Director of Legal Casework;
·Work collaboratively with the Helen Bamber Foundation Group CEO and Executive Leadership team to drive the implementation of the Group strategic framework;
·Ensure that all reporting and monitoring requirements are met to support fundraising, contract compliance and monitoring strategic impact;
·Support the cross collaboration of the Asylum Aid team with the Helen Bamber Foundation team and play an active part in the management of the Helen Bamber Foundation Group.
Governance
·Act as the Data Protection Supervisor with responsibility for data protection and cyber security within Asylum Aid
·Together with the Helen Bamber Foundation Group CEO and designated safeguarding leads, be responsible for child and adult safeguarding within Asylum Aid
·In collaboration with the Director of Legal Casework, ensure compliance by Asylum Aid with all legal and regulatory obligations, including the Legal Aid Agency contract, the Immigration Advice Authority and Solicitors Regulation Authority;
·Lead on the preparation and presentation of quarterly reports on Asylum Aid’s activities, strategy and risks to the Asylum Aid Board, the Finance and Fundraising Committee and the People and Governance Committee;
·Lead on the preparation of the Trustees’ annual report and ensure that monitoring and evaluation systems are adequate to enable reporting on Asylum Aid’s activities and impact.
Management and Supervision
·Responsible for line management of the Director of Legal Casework and Welfare Advice service coordinator, and other team supervisors as required;
·Together with the Group Director of People, responsible for Human Resources and implementation of the People Strategy within Asylum Aid, including development and implementation of HR policies and procedures;
·Together with the Director of Legal Casework and team supervisors, drive the effective management and supervision of the Asylum Aid team and ensure that they comply with relevant professional standards and accreditation;
·Foster a supportive and inclusive team culture at Asylum Aid in which each member feels valued and supported to develop professionally and to perform to the best of their ability;
·Ensure the team’s well-being and that self-care practices are established and work in tandem with the Director of Legal Casework and supervisors to ensure trauma-informed ways of working.
Policy & Strategic Legal Work
·Together with the Group Director of Policy, identify policy priorities and coordinate the preparation of evidence and briefings drawing on Asylum Aid’s experience and expertise to influence system change;
·Build and maintain relationships and partnerships with sector colleagues to support joint strategic engagement including policy advocacy and strategic legal work;
·Work closely with the Director of Legal Casework and team supervisors to drive changes in the UK asylum, trafficking and statelessness systems through strategic legal work.
Finance & Fundraising
·Work closely with the CEO and the Helen Bamber Foundation Group Finance Team to set and manage budget(s) and general financial matters for Asylum Aid
·Together with the Director of Legal Casework and the Group Finance Team, establish systems for monitoring legal aid Work In Progress and billing, and securing casework income including legal aid, and inter partes income from judicial review cases;
·Work closely with the Helen Bamber Foundation Group Fundraising and Communications Team to secure funding for Asylum Aid from a range of sources including trusts and foundations, corporate philanthropy and major donors;
·Ensure that Legal Aid and other income is maximised, and targets are achieved.
Other duties
·Manage the recruitment and supervision of volunteers where necessary in collaboration with the Helen Bamber Foundation Group Volunteers Coordinator;
·Support the Helen Bamber Foundation Group Facilities team to ensure the smooth running of the office and that the facilities meet the needs of Asylum Aid;
·Work outside normal office hours as required and travel in order to carry out the responsibilities of the post.
·To undertake any task that may be requested from time to time that may be consistent with the nature and scope of this post.
Essential Experience, Skills and Knowledge
•Experience of running a small to medium sized charity/legal NGO and/or legal department within the NGO sector (or other equivalent senior management role);
•Demonstrable experience of managing and leading a successful team and the ability to manage a growing team with mixed roles from team supervisors to administrative support staff, working co-operatively with colleagues to maintain transparency and effective working relationships within the team;
•Strong communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with people from a wide range of backgrounds
•Strong understanding of good governance including legal, regulatory and financial responsibilities;
•Ability to work with a range of stakeholders from trustees to external partners;
•Experience of leading and/or participating in organisational strategic planning;
·Experience of legal policy work within the human rights field and /or of strategic litigation, whether as an NGO claimant or legal representative;
•Experience of managing diverse funding sources and setting and implementing budgets;
•Experience of working in a service delivery partnership with other organisations;
•Experience of fundraising, especially grants from trusts and foundations;
•Sound working knowledge of the law and policy as it relates to immigration, asylum, human rights and modern slavery/trafficking;
•Demonstrable understanding of the asylum and human rights sector in the UK;
•An understanding of the barriers migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers face regarding access to legal advice, reasons why they may become destitute and why this makes it more difficult to access advice and support; and
•The passion for working empathetically and supportively with migrants, refugees, stateless people and asylum seekers.
Desirable Experience
·Experience of managing the delivery of frontline casework with people in the asylum or trafficking systems
·Experience of tendering for and delivering publicly funded contracts e.g. LAA or local authority funding;
·Working knowledge of Legal Aid Agency contracts, including the delivery of casework and billing under a legal aid contract in the immigration and asylum category and/or the public law category;
How to apply
The first stage is to complete on our online application form on our website by 10am on Monday 26th January 2026.
The website form will ask you to:
1.Upload a short covering letter. Please tell us why the position appeals to you, and how your relevant skills and experience, including any voluntary experience and lived experience, matches the listed responsibilities and person specification. Please also state in your covering letter when you would be available to start the role.
2.Upload your current CV
3.Complete an online Equal Opportunities monitoring form – completion of this form will help us ensure that our recruitment procedures operate in such a way as to provide genuine equality of opportunity. The questions are entirely optional, and this information will not be available to members of the selection panel.
For an informal conversation about the post before applying, please contact Alison Pickup, the current Executive Director.
Selection Process
We will invite candidates to an initial online interview on Tuesday 10th or Wednesday 11th February, followed by shortlisted candidates attending in-person interviews at our office in Old Street on Tuesday 24th or Wednesday 25th February.
We offer a guaranteed initial interview for refugees, stateless people and others with lived experience of forced migration, provided that they provide some evidence of relevant experience or skills in relation to the essential criteria.
We regret that we can only respond to applicants who make it to the interview stage.
Eligibility
Please note that the successful candidate must have the right to work in the UK (as a small charity we do not have the capacity to sponsor work visas).
Successful candidates will also be subject to a basic DBS check. If appointed, you will also be required to give your consent to the charity to receive regular updates on your criminal records status throughout your employment and to disclose any relevant convictions incurred during your time with us.
Adjustments
We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and we’ll always endeavour to be as accommodating as possible. If you require a different format of the application form, such as large print or Word format, or if you would like to discuss any specific requirements, please get in touch with us.
EQUITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
Our commitment to principles of equity, diversity and inclusion is an integral part of our approach to our clients, our volunteers and our staff, and we are an equal opportunities and Living Wage employer.
We are committed to attracting and recruiting diverse candidates because we are keen to make sure that our staff, trustees, volunteers and ambassadors reflect the communities we serve and the wider community we work in.
We genuinely welcome and encourage applications from candidates from a range of backgrounds, especially people of colour, people with disabilities, people from low socio-economic backgrounds, refugees, stateless people and others with lived experience of forced migration or trauma and of the housing and welfare system, who are under-represented in our organisation.
We recognise and value the role of lived experience in meeting the needs of our clients and acknowledge the under-representation of people with lived experience of forced migration and statelessness in the advice sector. We value experience gained overseas as well as in the UK.
We are also proud to be a member of the Experts by Experience Employment Network which aims to increase representation of people with lived experience in the charitable sector.
If you are an expert by experience (a refugee or a migrant with direct, first-hand experience of issues and challenges of the UK asylum or immigration system), you can ask for an independent and confidential support for your job application from the Experts by Experience Employment Network and access other information and resources which may help in preparing your job application.
Please complete the form on their website to request support and they will confirm if they can match you with a mentor to support your application.
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!
Transparency International (UK) are looking for a Research Officer
This role is responsible for delivery of tasks to support our research and advocacy efforts around corruption in the defence and security sector, including quality control of data, liaison with expert researchers, and consolidation of research inputs.
The role contributes both practically and intellectually to the successful delivery of high-end research and advocacy with a focus on effecting change.
The Research Officer will report to Head of Research and perform this within the (Defence and Security Programme).
Main responsibilities
- Contribute to the delivery of TI-DS’s research agenda by undertaking qualitative and mixed-methods research projects under the guidance of the Head of Research
- Produce and facilitate literature reviews, synthesis studies and case-based studies on the key topics set-out to contribute to support the development of our expertise on defence and security sector corruption and the overall achievement of our strategic objectives
- Collect and analyse secondary data, and produce primary data as needed, to provide new insights into corruption risks in the defence and security sectors
- Contribute to high quality research tasks across the work conducted through the Government Defence Integrity Index (GDI)
- Undertake detailed rigorous review and fact-checking of GDI country assessments and sources from a variety of experts, including assessors, peer reviewers, government reviewers, and institutional partners
- Review GDI assessment process and provide suggestions for improvements in methodology
Who we are looking for:
- Educated to Masters’ level in a relevant field of the social sciences, such as security studies, political science, or governance; or of business studies with an interest in defence and corruption
- First rate research skills and familiarity with a range of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies;
- Demonstrated self-starter with ability to successfully undertake and complete a project, while working across teams and making a positive contribution to collective outcomes.
- Strong written communication and verbal presentation skills with ability to deliver high quality briefings, reports and presentations with minimal supervision.
- Great interpersonal skills being able to build relationships internally and externally.
- Ability to communicate clearly and collaborate effectively across teams
- Strong critical-thinking skills being able to apply sound judgement, problem solve, identify risks and suggest improvements.
- Strong analytical skills with experience in qualitative and mixed-methods research. Experience in quantitative analysis and applying rigorous fact-checking and source validation.
- Ability to produce clear concise literature reviews supported by good understanding of governance and corruption risks
- High standard of written communications and able to tailor writing to the audience
- Expertise in developing qualitative and mixed-methods research frameworks and structuring case studies.
Why TI-UK?
Transparency International is a global movement sharing one vision: a world in which government politics, business and the daily lives of people are free of corruption. Transparency International UK is the UK national chapter of this movement. We work with the UK and devolved governments, parliamentarians, civil society and the private sector to tackle corruption at home, addressing the UK’s global corruption footprint and helping multinational companies prevent corruption by operating with integrity. We are also home to two major global programmes tackling corruption in the Defence and Security and the Global Health sectors on behalf of the wider Transparency International movement.
What can you expect from us?
- A collaborative, flexible and friendly working environment where you will be provided with:
- A competitive salary for our sector
- Up to 6% contributory pension
- A 35-hour working week for full-time roles with flexibility to support your work/life balance. Our approach to blended working (full details on our website) allows you to benefit from regular connection and collaboration. You can also request a formal change to your working pattern and work location.
- Generous annual leave: 28 days plus statutory public / bank holidays as well as discretionary a gifted winter holiday break of three to four days each December between Christmas and New Year
- Enhanced leave beyond statutory requirements to support your parental or caring responsibilities
- Family friendly policies
- Additional leave to support your volunteering or community service
- Employee Assistance Programme (Aviva) to support your physical, mental & financial health.
- Training and Development related to your role
- Season ticket loan/ Cycle to work scheme
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.
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.



