Policy research officer jobs

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 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 Head of Policy and Advocacy will lead the strategic development and delivery of MCF’s policy, advocacy and research agenda.Join the UK’s leading network for Muslim-led charities, strengthening the capacity, voice and impact of nearly 300 organisations.

Job role: Head of Policy and Advocacy

Employer: Muslim Charities Forum

Salary:£42,000 – 45,000 per annum

Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week (4 days office-based, 1 day hybrid/remote)

Position: Fixed Term Contract, 3 years.

Location: London SE1.Nearest stations Waterloo, Lambeth North

Closing date for applications:16th December 2025, 5.00pm or until a suitable candidate is identified.

About Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) 

Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) is the UK’s leading network for Muslim-led charities, strengthening the capacity, voice and impact of nearly 300 organisations. Guided by our pillars of Support, Connect and Represent, we champion excellence, transparency and social justice through resources, capacity-building, research and advocacy. 

We work to tackle structural and funding barriers, influence government, policymakers and the wider sector, and build a more sustainable, equitable Muslim-led charitable landscape. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, we drive systemic change and amplify the contributions of Muslim-led organisations across society. 

Role Purpose 

The Head of Policy and Advocacy will lead the strategic development and delivery of MCF’s policy, advocacy and research agenda. The role involves shaping long-term strategy, building a robust evidence base, influencing government and policymakers, and representing MCF at senior levels across the charity, public and political sectors. 

The postholder will engage proactively with central and local government, devolved authorities, and regional mayors, ensuring that the voices and experiences of Muslim-led organisations are represented in policy development and decision-making. 

They will work collaboratively with MCF’s Communications, Partnerships, and Systemic Change and Sector Capacity teams to ensure a coordinated and strategic approach that delivers sustainable, long-term impact. 

Key Responsibilities 

1. Strategy and Leadership 

• Develop and deliver the next three-year Policy and Advocacy Strategy aligned with MCF’s organisational objectives. 

• Provide strategic advice to the CEO, Senior Leadership Team, and Board on policy opportunities and risks. 

• Lead and develop the Policy and Advocacy team, fostering a high-performing, inclusive and collaborative culture. 

2. Policy, Research and Insight 

• Monitor and analyse UK policy and regulatory developments affecting Muslim-led civil society. 

• Oversee research, consultations and data-driven insight to inform MCF’s policy positions. 

• Produce high-quality policy outputs, including reports, consultation responses and position statements. 

3. Influencing and Stakeholder Engagement 

• Lead MCF’s engagement with central government, local authorities, devolved administrations and regional mayors, as well as regulators and sector networks. 

• Build and maintain strategic relationships with ministers, parliamentarians, senior officials, think tanks and sector leaders. 

• Coordinate MCF’s public affairs activity, including roundtables, Select Committee and APPG engagement, and representation at high-level external forums. 

• Strengthen MCF’s profile as a credible and influential voice for Muslim-led civil society across all tiers of government and the voluntary sector. 

4. Sector Capacity and Member Support 

• Engage MCF’s members and Muslim-led organisations in collective policy development and advocacy. 

• Design and deliver tools, training and resources to build members’ influencing capacity. 

• Identify and advocate for structural solutions to sector-wide challenges, including funding inequality, regulatory barriers and intersectional disadvantage. 

5. Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting 

• Develop and implement frameworks to assess the effectiveness and impact of MCF’s policy and advocacy work. 

• Provide regular progress reports to the CEO. 

• Ensure compliance with charity law, lobbying and regulatory requirements. 

Person Specification 

Essential Criteria 

• Significant experience (5+ years) in senior policy, advocacy or influencing roles within the UK charity or voluntary sector. 

• Demonstrable success influencing government at national, local or devolved levels, achieving measurable policy or funding change. 

• Strong understanding of the UK charity policy, funding and regulatory environment. 

• Knowledge of the UK Muslim-led and/or faith-based civil society landscape. 

• Experience amplifying marginalised voices and embedding lived experience into policy and advocacy work. 

• Proven ability to lead teams and deliver organisational strategy. 

• Excellent analytical, written and verbal communication skills, with strong political acumen. 

• Commitment to social justice, equity and strengthening Muslim-led civil society. 

Desirable Criteria 

• Experience working with Muslim-led, faith-based or minority-led organisations. 

• Understanding of intersectionality and its impact on underrepresented communities. 

• Experience of research collaboration with academic institutions or think tanks. 

• Proven track record in building partnerships for policy or advocacy initiatives. 

Values and Behaviours 

• Strategic and forward-thinking leadership. 

• Collaborative and inclusive approach to diverse stakeholders. 

• Resilience and adaptability in complex, fast-changing environments. 

• Integrity and credibility in representing MCF and the wider sector. 

• Strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. 

• Excellent communication skills, particularly in amplifying underrepresented voices. 

Additional Information 

This is a senior leadership position. Occasional evening or parliamentary activities may be required, along with UK-wide travel. 

What We Offer 

• The opportunity to lead impactful change within one of the UK’s most dynamic faith-based networks. 

• A collaborative, inclusive, and supportive working environment. 

• Opportunities for professional growth, leadership, and innovation. 

Application Information 

To apply, please send a CV (no more than 2 pages) and a covering letter (max 1,000 words) explaining how you meet the essential criteria and your motivation and suitability for the post.

We are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are particularly keen to hear from candidates with lived experience of marginalisation and an understanding of Islamic ethos.  

We reserve the right to withdraw this role once a suitable candidate is identified. 

If you have not heard from us concerning your application within 6 weeks, please assume your application has been unsuccessful. 

Interviews: Initial online short interview (stage 1), face-to-face in-office interview (stage 2). 

No agencies.

UK residents only.Sponsorship is not possible for this post. References will be taken up prior to appointment including relevant ID checks. 

Public Affairs and Policy Officer

Salary: £43,392 per annum pro-rata FTE

Duration: 6-Month Fixed-Term Contract

Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week

Location: London (Hybrid - 2 days per week in the office, Thursdays plus one other day)

Are you an experienced policy and public affairs professional with a strong understanding of the UK political system and a passion for influencing change?

About the Organisation

Charity People are delighted to be partnering with a respected professional membership organisation, dedicated to advancing healthcare through education, training, and advocacy. They set standards for specialist training, influence government policy, and promote public understanding of their field. Their work underpins patient care and ensures high-quality practice across the UK and internationally.

About the Role

As Public Affairs and Policy Officer, you will play a key role in shaping policy and advocacy work. Reporting to the Press and Communications Manager, you will help raise awareness of key organisational policies, influence parliamentarians and policymakers, and contribute to projects that impact healthcare and patient outcomes.

About You

You will join a busy Communications Directorate, which enhances the organisation's reputation through media, public affairs, and stakeholder engagement. In this role, you will:

• Develop and deliver a policy and public affairs work programme.
• Raise awareness of key policies to influence parliamentarians, policymakers, and stakeholders.
• Support projects and advocacy work, drafting policy briefings and reports.
• Work across directorates and with members to develop policy proposals and public affairs activities.
• Provide advice to senior staff and ensure that influencing work aligns with organisational priorities.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop policy positions, briefings, and influencing plans.
• Build and maintain relationships with politicians, influencers, and stakeholders.
• Draft responses to parliamentary and government consultations.
• Support advocacy projects and prepare reports for senior leadership.
• Represent the organisation at meetings and events to promote policy positions.

Key skills needed to succeed in this role:

• Strong understanding of UK political systems and parliamentary procedures.
• Experience drafting policy documents and translating complex concepts for policymakers.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to prioritise, work under pressure, and adapt to changing policy environments.
• Collaborative, diplomatic, and resilient approach.
• Advanced IT skills, including Microsoft Office and CMS

How to Apply

Please apply without delay, as we are reviewing applications on an ongoing basis for this urgent role.

Closing date: Wednesday 7th January at 9:00

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential. Please let us know if you require any adjustments to ensure the application process works for you.

Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.

We're the UK's specialist blood cancer charity and our vision is clear: we’re here to beat blood cancer. We fund world-class research; provide information and support to patients and their loved ones; and raise awareness of blood cancer.

In this role, you’ll lead major clinical research programmes, including a strategic clinical trial funding scheme, build strong partnerships across the research community, and oversee the UK Blood Cancer Research Network. You’ll help shape funding opportunities, ensure robust programme governance, and champion meaningful involvement of people affected by blood cancer to drive impactful, patient-centred research.

We’re looking for someone with experience delivering research funding programmes, strong knowledge of UK clinical research, and excellent communication and relationship-building skills. You’ll be confident managing multiple projects, using data and technology, and working with diverse stakeholders. A relevant science background and ability to improve systems and processes will help you thrive.

We are committed to actively promoting equality, diversity, and inclusivity. In line with our strategy we welcome approaches from individuals from underrepresented groups, including minority communities, and applicants with a disability, to better reflect the community we serve and help broaden our perspectives.

Please note, we may close this ad early at our discretion.

Policy Officer

Hammersmith & Fulham Law Centre
Salary: £38,000
Working hours: 35 per week, full time but will consider part time applicants

This is a hybrid role

Benefits include 30 days annual leave and significant opportunities for learning and development. Our offices in Hammersmith are on the Piccadilly, District and Hammersmith & City Line tubes.

We require a policy officer for our small, friendly team. We are looking for a confident individual with initiative.

The successful candidate will have the ability to identify policy issues in our local community as well as in the wider social justice space. They will work with local grassroots organisations to make systems change.

Closing date:  5pm on 9 January 2026

Description

Your Role will be to:

▪ Obtain and analyse information about sector trends, threats, and opportunities and use these to help shape our work

▪ Work with the CEO and casework teams to identify, develop and deliver campaigns, particularly around issues in our local community

Devise and Develop policy projects including research and producing reports.

▪ Other duties as required that are reasonable and within your capabilities.

Person Specification

Skills and knowledge:

Essential

Educated to degree level and/or can consistently demonstrate degree level outcomes

Knowledge and recent experience gained from work within a policy team

Knowledge of methods used in policy development and influencing

 ▪ Experience in making, developing and maintaining relationships

 ▪ Excellent writing and speaking skills

 ▪ Excellent Analytical and fact-finding skills

 ▪ Good IT and social media skills

▪ Personal drive, motivation and an ability to work independently

 Desirable

 ▪ Knowledge and experience of social welfare law including immigration, housing, public law and employment

Experience of project management 

The Centre for Justice Innovation is looking to recruit a creative and pragmatic policy professional to help us advocate for evidence-based reform to criminal and family justice policy in the UK.

What will You be doing?

Our policy officer will play a key role in building on our research and practice insights to make the arguments for evidence-based policy in the UK’s justice systems, with a focus on building links in Westminster and Whitehall. You will work across our portfolio of work on issues such as:

• Diverting young people away from unnecessary criminal justice system involvement
• Ensuring that the justice system works with vulnerable women in a gender-sensitive and trauma-informed way
• Making sure that children and families involved in the family justice system have the right support.

Your duties will include:

• Producing policy materials and engaging with political stakeholders (e.g., submitting evidence to committees, emailing MPs, writing briefings);
• Working with our teams to translate research and practice work into products appropriate for policy audiences;
• Building our networks with policymakers and legislators in Westminster;
• Building our networks with third sector organisations and others who seek to influence policy, and representing the organisation at external meetings;
• Monitoring relevant parliamentary business and providing updates to the teams;
• Generating ideas for, planning and delivering on events and webinars;
• Contributing to the organisation’s thinking on strategic justice policy, and scoping new areas of work.

Every member of our team plays a part in influencing how the Centre develops. Roles and objectives may shift, and we ask everyone to work with creativity and flexibility in response to changing business needs.

Skills, Experience and Knowledge

Through your application, you should demonstrate the experience, skills and knowledge you have in the areas described below.

Experience

• Engaging with political stakeholders;
• Producing high-quality written materials to engage different policy audiences;
• Conducting desk-based research;
• Delivering events.

Skills, abilities and knowledge

• Excellent writing skills and good spoken English;
• Excellent analytical skills to succinctly develop and express key arguments;
• Good understanding of the UK political environment
• Demonstrable interest in and understanding of social policy issues
• Awareness of parliamentary processes and opportunities;
• Insight into the challenges policymakers face in delivering change;
• A creative approach to solving social problems and identifying practical solutions;
• The ability to balance multiple priorities and manage your own workload to meet deadlines.

You will also need to have:

• A willingness and ability to travel within the UK and occasionally overseas;
• Eligibility to work in the UK legally.

Timeline

The deadline for applications is 9am on Monday, 12th January 2026. Interviews will be held at our office in Kennington in the week commencing 19th January 2026.

Other benefits

• Matched pension contributions
• Employee healthcare scheme
• Flexible hous

Equal opportunities

It is the policy of The Centre for Justice Innovation to treat all employees and job applicants fairly and equally, regardless of their sex, sexual orientation, marital status, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion, age, disability, offending history or trade union membership status.

We actively encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences, fostering a workplace where everyone feels valued and can thrive.

The Centre is committed to fair recruitment and the inclusion of applicants with criminal records. It is essential that people do not face unfair discrimination in any role within the charity, whether paid or voluntary. For that reason, we do not use criminal records to exclude people. We only ask about criminal records if they are relevant to the role.

We are a charity representing and advocating for people living with dyslexia. Our mission is simple but powerful: to influence government and institutions so that society becomes truly dyslexia-friendly – enabling individuals of all ages to reach their full potential.

This is a key role leading our parliamentary engagement and policy development, ensuring that dyslexic children, young people, families, and adults have a strong voice in Westminster, Whitehall, and across the UK. Working closely with senior leaders, campaigns and media colleagues, and external partners, you’ll help shape policy and drive change in education, health, and employment.

Your work will make sure policymakers understand the barriers dyslexic people face - and the evidence-based solutions we champion. You’ll ensure our positions are grounded in lived experience, research, and best practice, and that our engagement is proactive, impactful, and aligned with our mission.

What You’ll Do

• Develop and deliver a parliamentary engagement strategy to advance our policy priorities.
• Build and maintain relationships with MPs, Peers, Ministers, advisers, and civil servants.
• Provide timely briefings and strategic advice to senior leaders.
• Monitor political developments and identify opportunities for early influence.
• Lead policy research and produce clear, evidence-informed recommendations.
• Represent the charity at events, roundtables, and forums.
• Work collaboratively across teams to ensure policy insights inform campaigns and communications.

What We’re Looking For

• Proven, up-to-date experience in public affairs, parliamentary engagement, or a related policy-influencing role, with a  strong track record of delivering impact.
• Strong understanding of UK parliamentary and governmental processes.
• Excellent communication skills—able to translate complex issues into clear, compelling messages.
• Political awareness, strategic thinking, and confident networking ability.
• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and a passion for improving outcomes for dyslexic people.

Please review the full job description for complete details about the role, responsibilities, and person specification before applying.

Why Join Us?

This is your chance to make a real difference – shaping policy, influencing decision-makers, and helping create a society where dyslexic people can thrive. You’ll work in a collaborative, supportive environment with colleagues who share your passion for positive change.

Closing date: 14 January 2026 (5pm). We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of applications is received, so we encourage you to apply early.

Use of AI in Applications
We value the unique experience and perspective each candidate brings. While we understand that AI tools can be helpful in drafting applications, they can sometimes result in responses that feel generic or impersonal. This makes it harder for us to get a true sense of you.

To help your application stand out, we encourage you to write your responses in your own words. If you do use AI tools to support your writing, please treat the generated content as a starting point rather than a final answer. Make sure your application genuinely reflects your experience and voice.

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:

• Commitment to upholding the rights of ALL migrants

• Real vision as to how this can be done in the current political, social and economic climate 

• 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

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. 

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. 

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:

• Commitment to upholding the rights of ALL migrants

• Real vision as to how this can be done in the current political, social and economic climate 

• 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

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.

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.