Public affairs jobs

Policy & Public Affairs Intern   

Length: 32 weeks, estimated start in May

Salary: London living wage, £26,936 pro-rata

Working Pattern: Full-time, 35hrs Mon – Fri | Staff can opt to work 32hrs over 4 days each week (with either Monday or Friday as a non-working day). The BES is a 4-day work week organisation with no reduction in pay.

Location: Hybrid. We ask that staff spend at least 60% of their time at our London office. 

Closing Date: Thursday 2 April, 10:00am

Interview Date: Monday 27 April

Purpose of role: This role will provide the successful applicant with an opportunity to gain first-hand experience of working in environmental policy and public affairs. You will join our small friendly Policy team working across the BES’s policy priorities, ensuring scientific evidence is accessible to policymakers across the UK.  If you have strong interpersonal and organisational skills, demonstrable interest in environmental policy and a desire to learn about the BES’s policy work, we would love to hear from you.  

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES  

Policy & Research   

• Research and prepare a policy briefing on a topic aligned with the BES’s policy strategy.     

• Drawing from previous BES publications, help develop and refine the BES’s strategic messaging to support consistent and effective external communications.  

• Oversee the policy section of the BES website, including writing expert and engaging blogs and news items, and organising the contribution of external collaborators.   

• Working with the communications team, help to develop content to communicate key messages, including webinars, podcasts, newsletter content and social media.  

Public Affairs  

• Develop a database of contacts and stakeholders to help communicate our key messages.  

• Represent the BES, alongside other members of the Policy & External Affairs team, at meetings with external partners, workshops, parliamentary receptions and conferences, building relationships and forging effective partnerships.  

• Help with policy event management including policy roundtables, expert workshops, policy training and other online and in-person events.   

Support   

• Provide support to the BES Policy Committee and our national Policy Groups in England, Wales and Scotland. This includes organising meetings, as well as producing relevant papers, agendas and minutes.  

PERSON SPECIFICATION JOB DESCRIPTION   

Essential  

• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to engage a wide range of audiences  

• Ability to analyse, interpret and summarise complex scientific information in an engaging manner  

• Self-motivated, with the ability to be proactive and work independently  

• Familiarity with social media with experience of writing webpages, blogs and social media posts.   

• Strong interpersonal skills, with experience of developing effective working relationships with a range of individuals.   

• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to meet multiple deadlines and prioritise work with excellent attention to detail.   

• Good IT skills, including knowledge of Microsoft Office.   

• Degree in natural sciences or social sciences.  

• A demonstrable interest in environmental policy.  

Desirable   

• Some knowledge of the environmental policy priorities of the UK and devolved governments.  

• Some knowledge of BES policy priority areas, including Nature Finance, Nature Based Solutions and Nature-Positive Infrastructure.  

• An understanding of the BES’s work and the role of learned societies.  

To apply for this vacancy, please submit:

• Your CV - no more than 2x A4 sides detailing your education, training and work history, as well as any relevant skills
• A cover letter no more than 1x A4 side explaining why you wish to undertake this particular role at the BES
• Your Equality & Diversity information - this voluntary information helps us to assess the diversity of our recruitment and further improve recruitment processes in the future. It has no bearing on the success of your application and is not considered as part of the shortlisting process.

We recognise that AI tools can support candidates in refining their job applications, particularly in improving clarity and language. if you choose to use AI to assist with your application, please remember you are responsible for the content and quality of your application.

Ai may be use to improve - but must not replace - your own voice and experience. Applications must reflect your own understanding, experience and and suitability for the role. We encourage all applications tor review their submission carefully before sending. 

BENEFITS

Four-day working week

• Along with our four-day working week to support a better work/life balance, we offer a range of flexible working options, including hybrid working and variable start and finishing times. 

Annual leave

• With a generous holiday allowance and office closure between Christmas and the New Year, we’ll make sure you have space for yourself. We also offer everyone a week working from anywhere.

Pension

• To help with saving for your retirement, we offer a generous pension plan.

Health and wellbeing

• With a supportive occupational sick policy, eyecare checks and seasonal flu jabs we’re here to keep your health a priority. We have regular wellbeing activities, a wellness room and annual away-days for all staff.

Change lives in a life-changing career

When a child or young person is diagnosed with cancer, their whole world can feel like it’s falling apart. Independence is taken and confidence is stolen. Stability no longer exists. The future suddenly feels uncertain.

The impact of cancer on young lives is more than medical. And that impact can be felt by entire family. That’s why we exist. Our specialist social workers help children and young people with cancer and their families navigate the emotional and practical impact of cancer.

We remove barriers, solve problems and prioritise wellbeing. And we stop at nothing to make their voices heard and their unique needs understood, so they can get the right care and support at the right time

About the role

We’re looking for a Policy and Public Affairs Manager with experience in delivering high-impact, voice-led policy, public affairs and campaigning work to join our Policy and Influencing team.

We have a growing and ambitious commitment to creating positive change in the health and care system to achieve the change children and young people with cancer, and their families, need across the UK. This means amplifying the voices of young cancer patients and delivering evidence-based campaigns that make change happen.

The Policy and Public Affairs Manager is responsible for ensuring our policy and influencing work has maximum impact through our public affairs and campaigning across the UK. This work will be co-created with children and young people at every appropriate opportunity. Building relationships is a crucial part of your role and you will support the Head of Policy and Influencing to deliver Young Lives vs Cancer’s policy, influencing and voice work to be sector leading and develop a range of external relationships to inform our work in this area.

Our Policy, Influencing and Voice Team build the evidence base we need to develop sound policy positions, works to influence the system for children and young people with cancer and their families, so we can change experiences of having cancer and ensure children and young people’s voices are heard. The team is a part of the Innovation, Policy and Systems Change Directorate, which synthesises our policy, research, campaigning, voice, innovation and systems change work.

This role is subject to a criminal record check. In the event of a successful application a basic criminal record check will be completed. A previous conviction is not necessarily a barrier to employment. We encourage qualified applicants to apply, and we will consider each case individually.

What will I be doing?

No two days are the same at Young Lives vs Cancer. So, summarising your ‘day to day’ isn’t easy. Here are some of the main things you’ll be doing, but you’ll find more details in the job description.

• Monitoring and analysing developments and trends in policy affecting children and young people with cancer, to identify relevant policy issues across the UK at an early stage and to advise on and help shape the charity’s response and public position.
• Working with colleagues across the team to develop policy positions that are relevant, up to date and can be used to support wider campaigning and influencing activities to engage our supporters, across health, social care, benefits and welfare reform, education issues and other relevant issues.
• Planning, managing and implementing public affairs plans and engagement based on policy priorities and effectiveness, liaising with external partners and coalitions, including designing and delivering our proactive engagement with elected representatives, monitoring the public affairs environment and co-ordinating reactive and proactive activities across the UK.
• Delivering a campaigns programme which builds on are previous successes, ensuring our campaigns and public affairs programmes work alongside with and alongside children, young people and families.
• Working with the Head of Policy and Influencing to support Young Lives vs Cancer’s engagement, communications and influence with policymakers, elected representatives and other key stakeholders.
• Developing external partnerships and networks to strengthen policy and public affairs activity

What do I need? 

The key skills we’re looking for in this role are:

• Ability to deliver strategic policy and public affairs activity based on robust evidence, from development to evaluation.
• Successfully influence politicians and key decision-makers to achieve strategic goals at different levels of government, through managing the delivery of successful public affairs campaigns
• Overseeing work that involves beneficiaries in policy and influencing work, demonstrate effective influencing skills
• Awareness and understanding of and/or experience of working in the policy issues facing young people with cancer across all four UK nations, and the wider policy and influencing and/or campaigning landscape
• Demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills at a variety of levels to a wide range of audiences, in particular a political audience
• Be an organised, systematic and a confident worker - managing a fast paced and reactive workload alongside longer-term strategic work whilst demonstrating attention to detail and accuracy

What will I gain?

For people to reach their full potential, they need the right environment. As a member of Team Young Lives, you’ll be made to feel supported, valued and appreciated. Here’s how we do it:

• Flexible working: we’re open to working hours outside of 9 - 5 and we can talk through your flexibility requirements at interview stage
• Wellbeing, Thinking & Growth Days: four days a year to to step back from the day-to-day and focus on your own learning and development
• Generous annual leave allowance
• Great family/caring leave entitlements
• Enhanced pension
• Access to our employee savings scheme

To find out more about our benefits package, have a look on our website.

Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

At Young Lives vs Cancer, we recognise that opportunities for too many people remain a condition of their sex, ethnicity, class, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation – or a combination. This has never been acceptable to us as an organisation. We don’t just accept difference, we value it, celebrate it, nurture it and we thrive because of it.

We’re on a journey to be reflective of the diverse children, young people and families we support. We know we aren’t there yet, and we’re passionately committed to taking actions and making changes to be a truly diverse, inclusive and equitable organisation. This includes taking anti-oppressive action and removing barriers in our recruitment practices. We particularly welcome applications from members of minoritised communities. Our Diversity, Inclusion, Equity and Belonging strategy will tell you more.

To ensure fairness and consistency to select the best candidate for this role, all our applications are anonymised up until an interview has been confirmed. We recognise the benefits of AI, but if you're considering using it to submit your application, we encourage you to reflect on the value AI adds. AI tools often lack the personal touch and authenticity that set candidates apart. We want to hear your unique perspective, experiences, and skills, so we encourage you to tell us about your skills and experiences in your own voice.

Accessibility

We’re committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and we’ll always aim to be as accommodating as possible.Please let us know in your application form of any adjustments or access requirements we could make to help you with the application process and interview.

#ShowTheSalary #NonGraduatesWelcome

Policy and Public Affairs Officer – Shape the Future of Science and Policy

Join the Society as a Policy and Public Affairs Officer and play a pivotal role in placing physiology at the heart of evidence-based policy. This is a unique opportunity to influence public policy on key issues such as health, healthy ageing, and climate change, while supporting physiologists to lead in shaping the research and funding landscape.

What You’ll Do

• Develop and influence policy: Research, design, and advocate for evidence-based policies that advance physiology and its impact on society.

• Engage stakeholders: Build and maintain strong relationships with policymakers, parliamentarians, civil servants, and partner organisations.

• Communicate and advocate: Produce policy briefings, statements, and publications, leveraging digital platforms and member networks to share your work widely.

• Support the community: Work closely with committees, internal teams, and members to gather insights and ensure policies reflect the needs of the physiology community.

• Deliver impact: Organise events, track policy developments, and coordinate proactive projects that drive the Society’s objectives forward.

About You
You are a proactive, strategic thinker with a passion for policy and public affairs, ideally within science, health, or climate sectors. You have excellent communication and analytical skills, experience engaging with diverse stakeholders, and the ability to manage multiple projects while meeting deadlines.

Essential Requirements – Summary

• 1–3 years’ experience in policy, public affairs, government, agency, or related roles.

• Degree in life sciences, public policy, political science, or equivalent.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to translate complex information for different audiences.

• Experience developing and advocating policy positions, ideally in science, health, or climate sectors.

• Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.

• Strong organisational skills; able to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.

• Experience engaging with government, parliamentarians, and other stakeholders to influence policy.

• Able to work collaboratively across teams and independently when required

Why Join Us?

• Influence public policy at a national and international level.

• Collaborate with a passionate, expert team committed to advancing physiology.

• Be part of an inclusive, diverse, and forward-thinking organisation that values your perspective.

What we offer

• Excellent benefits including Private Medical Insurance and a generous pension scheme.
• Hybrid working - 2 anchor days in the office.
• A friendly team and bright offices based in the heart of Farringdon.

Applications
To apply, please ensure you download and review the attached job description. Applications are by way of an up to date CV and cover letter detailing why you are suitable for the role. 

We reserve the right to interview suitable candidates before the closing date and to hire if we are ready to before the closing date.

Please note: DO NOT APPLY if you do not have the legal right to work in the UK. We do not offer sponsorships.

The Key Information

• Location: London based, requiring two days per week at Society Building, 8 All Saints Street, London N1.
• Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week.
• Salary: £85,000 per annum.
• Contract: Permanent.
• Interview process: Two stages totalling around 2 hours.
• Reporting to: Chief Influencing Officer.

About the Role

Lead the change and strengthen society

We’re looking for someone to lead high-impact, influencing work at a pivotal moment for the voluntary sector.

As Associate Director of Policy, Public Affairs and Research, you’ll shape and deliver a bold, evidence-led strategy that strengthens the environment in which civil society organisations operate. You’ll position our organisation as a trusted, authoritative voice with government, parliament and key decision-makers – ensuring that our policy positions are credible, ambitious and grounded in robust research.

Sitting on the senior leadership team, you’ll help steer organisational strategy while leading a high-performing department that translates insight into influence and influence into change.

Why this role matters

The voluntary sector is navigating profound political, economic and social change. Strong, credible leadership in policy and public affairs has never been more important.

In this role, you’ll:

• influence national policy debates that affect thousands of organisations
• translate research and evidence into tangible change
• strengthen the voice and impact of civil society
• lead organisational strategy at the highest level
• build partnerships that accelerate systemic progress.

This is a role for a confident and values-driven leader who combines political astuteness with strategic clarity and delivery focus.

Why Join Us?

With members at the heart of everything we do, we champion the charities and volunteers who make a daily difference to our communities across England. Join us and help us make communities stronger and support us making a bigger difference!

Some of NCVO’s great benefits include:

• 25 days’ annual leave (pro-rata for part-time staff), increasing based on years of service
• five days’ volunteering leave (pro rata for part-time staff)
• enhanced pay for maternity/adoption leave
• generous employer pension contribution of up to 8.5% of salary.

Find out more about the benefits of working at NCVO on our website.

Head of Policy & Public Affairs

Business Disability Forum is the leading business membership organisation in disability inclusion. We are trusted partners, working with businesses, Government and disabled people to improve the life experiences of disabled employees and consumers, by removing barriers to inclusion.

• We work with over 600 members employing over 20% of the UK workforce and an estimated 8 million people worldwide.
• We advise, support and encourage businesses (many of them global) to become more disability-smart.
• We influence policymakers by representing the voice of employers and disabled employees.
• We provide evidence-based thought leadership on how business affects the lives of disabled people.
• We help effect changes in business practices, products, services and policies that positively impact the life experiences of disabled people, and also benefit business.

The role

We are looking for an exceptional individual to fulfil the role of Head of Policy and Public Affairs. We are looking for an experienced public affairs professional who can design and implement a public and parliamentary affairs strategy and support the team’s projects across public and parliamentary affairs, research, law and legislation, and UK Government consultation and inquiry work.

The requirement

• Demonstrable experience of working at management level in a public policy role in a topic related to disability, diversity and inclusion in the UK.
• Strong experience in setting and delivering a public and parliamentary affairs strategy.
• Strong experience of developing of new insights and policy positions within a team in an organisation working with other internal teams (such as comms and media) to communicate and promote those positions.
• In depth knowledge of the disability and reasonable adjustments element of UK legislation, and equality law as per the Equality Act 2010, the Employment Rights Act, Health and Safety at Work.
• Experience of acting as public facing spokesperson for an organisation.

For the full job description-person specification and additional information for applicants of this role and instructions on how to apply please visit our website below via the button below:

How to apply

We are asking applicants to send their CV and covering letter to apply for the role. Writing to a high standard in English is key to this role, as is writing to tight specifications and word count. A mistake is fine – we all make them. But your covering letter and CV should be well-written, with accurate use of English spelling and grammar. Your covering letter should tell us why you want to work in BDF’s policy and research team and why you think you would suit the role. Your letter should not exceed 400 words in total. Applications should be sent to jobs @ businessdisabilityforum .org .uk. 

• Closing date for applications: 19 April 2026
• First interviews are planned for the 27, 28 & 30 April.
• Second interviews are likely to take place in the week commencing 5 May 2026.

Business Disability Forum is committed to ensuring that all its information, products and services are as accessible as possible to everyone. If you wish to discuss anything in regards to accessibility or if you require alternative formats please contact Barnaby Powell by email at the address above or by telephone on 020-7403-3020.

For further information on Business Disability Forum please refer to our website via the link on this page.

Equal opportunities

We are committed to becoming disability-smart and an employer of choice irrespective of race (which includes colour, nationality and ethnic or national origins), sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital or civil partnership status, age, disability, or pregnancy and maternity. The ethical and business case of ensuring that our workforce is representative of wider society is at the heart of what we do. When we are recruiting, disabled candidates who meet all of the criteria will be offered an interview.

The Association of Directors of Public Health (ADPH) is a Charity and Company Limited by guarantee and is the representative body for Directors of Public Health (DPH) in the UK.

It seeks to improve and protect the health of the population through collating and presenting the views of DsPH; advising on public health policy and legislation at a local, regional, national and international level; facilitating a support network for DsPH; and providing opportunities for DsPH to develop professional practice.

The Association has a rich heritage, its origins dating back more than 160 years. It is a collaborative organisation working in partnership with others to maximise the voice for public health.

We are now looking to appoint to the role of Public Affairs Manager who, supporting the Head of External Affairs, will help to deliver the Associations External Affairs strategy, influencing through strong relationships with key external stakeholders.

The successful candidate will have experience of developing successful strategies to influence legislation or government policy, be politically astute and have a proven ability to tailor their briefings etc to influence different audiences.

They will have a knowledge of the UK political system and the mechanisms and tactics that can be used to secure change, have excellent organisational and prioritisation skills and be an enthusiastic and pro-active self-starter, with a flexible in approach that can adapt to changing circumstances.

The Association has offices in central London, but is currently operating a hybrid working model so welcomes candidates from across the UK, though attendance at ‘in person’ ADPH team meetings will be expected. Further details can be requested ahead of your application by contacting the Association

Your application must be accompanied by a covering letter that outlining why you would be suitable for the role, and the successful candidate will be required to provide evidence that they are entitled to work on a permanent basis in the UK.

Please note we will be interviewing throughout the term of the recruitment process and so reserve the right to close this opportunity ahead of its stated closing date should a suitable candidate be selected. 

Policy and Public Affairs Officer at the British Liver Trust  

Communications Team 

Building momentum, Changing lives 

The British Liver Trust is the UK’s leading charity supporting children and adults affected by liver disease and liver cancer. We advocate for improved prevention, early detection, and equitable access to care for all people affected by liver conditions across the UK. Liver disease is a public health emergency – it is the third leading cause of premature death in the UK, with deaths increasing by 400% over the past two generations. 

We believe that liver disease and liver cancer are at a tipping point. By taking bold action ourselves and with others, we will start to shift that balance and seize this moment. We are looking for an experienced policy officer to support us on this journey and to directly contribute to change.

This is an exciting time for the Trust as liver disease is increasingly being recognised as a priority by the NHS and we have recently launched our new organisation strategy.   

We are seeking a policy and public affairs professional to support existing work and support our advocacy with key stakeholders across the UK and to help improve outcomes and care for all liver disease patients.

The role  

• Run the Secretariat for the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Liver Disease and Liver Cancer

• Support our policy development, including supporting our consultation responses

• Help secure parliamentary debates and speakers, and provide tailored and impactful briefings 

• Coordinate political outreach to grow our pool of supportive MPs 

• Monitor and horizon scanning 

• Represent the Trust at external meetings to amplify our profile and policy messaging

• Work closely with colleagues in the communications, outreach, roadshow and fundraising teams to ensure policy is embedded across the Trust’s work. 

The postholder will have the opportunity to influence change and improve outcomes and services for liver disease and liver cancer patients. 

Policy and Public Affairs Officer 

Salary £32,000 – £35,500 per annum  

Full time 35 hours per week  

Home-based with regular access to London and occasional visits to Winchester (HQ).  

We offer a range of benefits for our employees, including: 

• Life assurance 4x your salary starting from date of employment 

• 5% employer pension contribution, rising to 7.5% at 15 months and 10% at 27 months service (optional on contribution increase) 

• Holiday buy-back scheme (up to 3 days per annum) 

• 25 days paid annual leave (FTE) 

• BUPA health cash-back scheme; money back on everyday healthcare costs, 24/7 health advice line, employee assist programme, mental health support & wellbeing resources 

• Cycle-to-work scheme 

• Contractual sick pay offering up to five weeks’ full pay, dependant on length of service to support employee wellbeing 

• 3 days additional gifted leave between Christmas and New Year 

If you would like to apply for the role, please send:

• a covering letter explaining how your experience, skills and knowledge make you suitable for the role, with particular relevance to the Job Description

• an up-to-date CV, including two referees

Closing date: 5pm on Friday the 10th of April 

Interviews: to be held on Tuesday the 21st of April 

The Woodland Trust is looking for a Public Affairs Manager to take lead responsibility for managing the Woodland Trust. Northern Ireland’s (WTNI) relationship with the NI Executive , Government, relevant statutory agencies, and key NI, ROI and UK political audiences; to advocate and campaign for changes in legislation, policies, incentives, strategies and plans which reflect the Trust’s priorities in NI and the Island of Ireland; and to lead on local development plan consultations and the Trust’s relationship with local councils and the wider eNGO sector.

The Role:
• In the context of our Corporate Strategy, UK policies and position statements and Northern Ireland Plan, to define our Northern Ireland Public Affairs and campaigning goals and to develop and manage a prioritised programme of policy and advocacy work to achieve them.
• Provide technical and expert support, advice, and briefings to the Northern Ireland Director, and other colleagues where relevant, on policy and advocacy matters and enable them to be effective policy advocates. 
• Lead Public Affairs in the Northern Ireland team, and any consultants as appropriate, providing clarity of direction, inspiring our staff and building capabilities and skills, upholding and actively promoting the values and behaviours of the Trust.
• Oversee, and where relevant lead, the development and management of relationships with NI Government including Ministers, MLAs, researchers, advisors and civil servants, as well as local government, statutory bodies and other influential organisations across farming, forestry and business in line with the NI Public Affairs plan.
• Represent the Trust and our policy and advocacy priorities externally, including negotiating consensus positions within external coalitions including NI Environment Link, with key stakeholders and potential partners.
• Actively monitor, gather intelligence, understand and analyse relevant areas of NI policy and politics, acting on key opportunities. Evaluate future threats and opportunities facing the Trust’s cause in NI, brief colleagues and steer our advocacy messaging accordingly.
• Work closely with other teams and departments, especially Comms & Engagement, UK Campaigns and Conservation and External Affairs, to coordinate and integrate political advocacy and campaigning messages with the Trust’s wider communications and influencing strategies and plans. 
• Contribute to ensuring appropriate and efficient use of Woodland Trust funds, including setting and managing the NI Public Affairs budget.
• This is a fixed term contract for 6 months.
• This is a hybrid position with a mix of home working, and from our regional office in Bangor, Northern Ireland. Head office attendance would be required no more than once a month on average. Occasional travel to other offices and remote locations may also be required.

The Candidate:
• You’ll be experienced in building strong relationships and have a proven record of delivery in partnership with local councils.
• You’ll have a proven track record in public affairs and policy delivery and experience of working with the environmental/voluntary sector.
• You’ll be experienced with relationship management - a developer of relationships with exceptional networking ability; able to spot opportunities and connections, evaluate them and act on them, both internally and externally.
• You’ll be experienced setting clear goals and priorities and taking responsibility for their delivery.
• You’ll need a working knowledge of current affairs, and the processes through which legislation and policies are developed and delivered.
• You’ll need to understand the current environmental policies, conservation and land management issues facing Northern Ireland and the wider UK.
• You’ll need knowledge of the Northern Ireland Executive and Government and the ability to use that knowledge to achieve results.
• You’ll need strong communication skills through both written and oral, as well as research and analytical skills.
• Educated to degree level or equivalent in relevant areas or proven extensive experience.
• Full UK driving licence would be an advantage.
• The successful candidate will be required to undertake a Basic Background Check as part of our pre-employment screening.

Benefits and Wellbeing:
Joining our team means you’ll be a big part of tackling environmental and climate issues. We take good care of our staff, offering support and training opportunities. We also offer:
• Enhanced Employer Pension
• Life Assurance
• Flexible & Hybrid Working Options
• Generous Annual Leave - 25 Days Plus Bank Holidays (pro rata’d for part-time)
• Buy and Sell Holiday Scheme
• Enhanced Parental Pay
• Employee Assistance Programme

About Us:
The Woodland Trust is the UK’s leading woodland conservation charity.  We want to see a world where trees and woods thrive for people and nature. The Trust engages and inspires people to make their difference tackling the nature and climate crisis helping protect, restore and create our vital woods and trees.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion:
To achieve our vision of a world where woods and trees thrive for people and nature, we need to better reflect society and the communities we work in. All people, no matter their background, identity, ability, or circumstance, should benefit from trees.  
People of colour and disabled people are currently under-represented across the environment and conservation sector. If you identify as a person of colour and/or disabled, we particularly encourage you to apply. 
Please contact us to discuss any additional support or adjustments you may need to complete your application.

Application Advice:
For fairness we keep our candidates’ personal details hidden from the hiring managers, and CVs are redacted until after shortlisting is complete. 
Make sure that your Personal Statement clearly shows how your skills and knowledge link to the specifications in the job description and you share with us your passion for the role. 

Acceptable Use - Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We understand that candidates may choose to use AI tools to support their job applications-for example, to help structure or edit written responses. We welcome the use of AI in this way, particularly where it helps improve accessibility, such as for neurodivergent applicants. However, we ask that any information submitted reflects your own experience, skills and understanding. During interviews, candidates are expected to respond independently without the use of AI tools. 

Apply Now:
If you're ready to make a difference and grow with us, send in your application today. We might close the job opening early if we get a lot of applications, so it's a good idea to apply soon. If we do close the advert early, and you have an application in process, we will email you prior to closing to give you time to complete. 

Head of Policy and Public Affairs

Bring your energy, creativity and expertise - and help us impact young people positively.

Location: Sherborne House, London (hybrid)

Salary: £52,535 per annum

Closing Date: 29 March, 2026

Employment Type: Permanent

Hours per week: 37.5

About the Role

Step into a role where your policy expertise drives real change. As Head of Policy and Public Affairs, you’ll lead an ambitious strategy to influence national decision‑makers, shape legislation and ensure the voices of people affected by homelessness are impossible to ignore. You’ll turn insight into impact, championing our values while strengthening our political presence and public profile

You’ll build powerful relationships across Westminster, Whitehall and the wider sector, producing sharp briefings, commissioning research and delivering high‑profile events that elevate Depaul’s influence. Confident in the media and skilled at simplifying complex issues, you’ll work across teams to anticipate policy change, spark innovation and help drive forward our mission to end homelessness. If you’re driven, strategic and ready to make national change happen, this is your platform.

Key deliverables:

• Develop organisational policy positions on key strategic issues for Depaul UK, focusing on policy areas that matter for our client group including homelessness, housing, welfare, health and care leavers.

• Working with the Director of Development and External Affairs to deliver a multi-year policy and public affairs strategy, you will own its delivery, having demonstrable impact on policy through influencing legislation, as well as securing funding and commitments from the government .

• Work with the Executive Director of Fundraising and Communications and their team to improve Depaul’s public profile by giving us a louder political voice.

• Work with the Executive Director of Operations and their team to ensure Depaul is well positioned to respond to changes in policy and regulation.

• Work in partnership with Depaul UK’s Head of Data and Insights on research projects designed to influence policy.

• Monitor, analyse and report on policy developments which may impact on the work of Depaul UK.

• Provide high quality written and verbal briefings, reports and submissions to consultations.

• Work with senior colleagues to develop positive relationships for Depaul UK with ministers, senior officials, elected Mayors, Parliamentarians and with other policy influencers including our peers in the homeless sector.

• Ensure that the voices and experiences of clients are heard and understood to improve and change services delivered by Depaul, commissioners and policy makers.

• Give interviews to the media.

• Organise and coordinate events and meetings.

• Strengthen Depaul’s links with other voluntary sector organisations in the homelessness, youth and faith sectors.

• Contribute to Depaul International’s global influencing work.

What we are looking for from you (Person Specification)

When completing your application form please address all the areas below. Try to provide clear examples in your supporting statement that clarify how and when you gained the experience or knowledge as well as your level of capability.

To carry out this role we are looking for the following from you in terms of qualifications, experience, skills and competencies:

Knowledge

• Strong knowledge of the homelessness sector and policy context is desirable but not essential, it is essential that you have developed strong, specialist knowledge of a UK policy area or areas.

Experience and skills

• Having had demonstrable impact on government policy.

• Developing and maintaining positive relationships with Parliamentarians and officials

• Organising or helping to organise events, it is desirable but not essential that you have organised events in Parliament

• Leading projects with colleagues from different internal or external teams

• Delivering high quality verbal and written policy briefings and presentations to senior stakeholders

• Working with colleagues to secure media coverage

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to work on own initiative and with low levels of supervision

• Ability to prioritise key tasks and manage conflicting priorities

• Ability to deliver to deadlines, sometimes at short notice

• Desirable - drafting and delivering policy and/or public affairs plans/strategies

• Desirable - representing organisations in the media and at events

You will need to be able to travel throughout the UK and on occasions work out of hours.

You believe in people — their strengths, their rights and their potential. You bring empathy, energy and a solution‑focused mindset to your work. You communicate clearly, stay organised and adapt well in a fast‑moving environment. You’re committed to inclusion, fairness and continuous learning, and you turn values into meaningful action, whatever your role.

What You’ll Receive

• Tailored training and development
• Flexible working options where suitable
• 26 days annual leave, rising with service
• Family‑friendly leave policies
• Pension scheme with employer contributions up to 7%
• Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 GP access
• Discounts across retail, travel, food, fitness and more
• Cash health plan for you and your family
• Death‑in‑service benefit
• Access to legal and practical support

Safer Recruitment

Depaul UK is committed to fair and inclusive recruitment, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. If a role requires it under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975, we will carry out the appropriate Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check. We only look at information that is relevant to the role, and a criminal record will never be treated as an automatic barrier to employment. All DBS information is handled sensitively, confidentially and in line with the DBS Code of Practice, and we encourage applicants to discuss any concerns with us openly.

About Depaul UK

In the 1980s, high unemployment and steep inflation was contributing to a shocking rise in youth homelessness across London. Thousands of young people were sleeping rough every night, with many areas notoriously dubbed “cardboard cities” due to the visible rise in street homelessness. Appalled by the scenes playing out across the capital, a group of people came together to tackle the challenge head on. Led by Cardinal Basil Hume and Mark McGreevy OBE, in 1989 Depaul UK was born.

What began as a single housing project in North London soon expanded across London, Greater Manchester and the North East of England. Today, Depaul UK provides accommodation, prevention and support services to thousands of marginalised young people across the UK each year.

As our name suggests, the work of Depaul UK has been inspired by St. Vincent de Paul – a man who devoted his life to helping vast numbers of people throughout the 17th century. St. Vincent de Paul’s belief in the intrinsic worth of all people and his commitment to taking bold action remain central to our values today. Depaul UK now forms part of a family of Depaul charities around the world. We each focus on the specific challenges in our own countries, but we’re united by our shared values and mission to end homelessness.

Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client – Not For Profit People.

We're looking for an External Affairs Manager to help strengthen our reputation, deepen our stakeholder relationships, and ensure our voice shapes the national conversation on housing and social impact. If you're politically astute, energised by stakeholder engagement, and passionate about making a meaningful difference, this is your opportunity to be right at the heart of a major organisational transformation. This is a role with real influence and visibility-your work will directly support the mission to become a truly resident-focused organisation.

What you'll be doing

• Lead public affairs and stakeholder engagement programme, ensuring that MPs, Councillors, London Assembly Members and other key influencers are informed, engaged and inspired by our work.
• Build trusted relationships with political stakeholders, acting as a credible, proactive and responsive partner.
• Monitor the political environment and provide expert political insight, risk assessment and strategic briefings to senior leaders.
• Shape policy positions that clearly articulate priorities and social purpose.
• Work closely with colleagues across our Corporate Affairs and operational teams to ensure we respond to casework effectively and show up brilliantly for all stakeholders.
• Support media and incident responses when needed and contribute to the out-of-hours rota.
• Represent the organisation within key sector networks, ensuring we remain an active and collaborative voice.

The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate the below:

• Experienced in public affairs, government relations or political engagement, ideally in a complex or regulated environment.
• Politically aware, with a strong understanding of the UK political landscape.
• A clear, confident communicator able to brief, influence and advise senior leaders.
• Experienced in stakeholder engagement for a range of stakeholders at various levels
• Skilled in managing casework, preparing political briefings and translating developments into actionable business insights.
• Highly organised, collaborative and motivated by social purpose.
• A strategic thinker with excellent judgment and the ability to anticipate reputational risks.
• Digitally savvy, adaptable and comfortable working in a fast-moving environment with media and political scrutiny.
• Experienced in Media Relations, Crisis Communications, Resident Communications and Public Consultations, Town Halls.

If this role is of interest, please apply ASAP with an up-to-date word version of your CV highlighting all your relevant experience as they are looking to hold interviews ASAP. Do get in touch if you would like more information.

Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk

Good health is essential for people and communities to thrive; it is the foundation of a happy and prosperous society. For more than 150 years it has been our mission to improve and protect the health of the public by addressing the factors that determine it. We are recruiting to this exciting and challenging External Affairs role which brings together policy and communications to strengthen our national voice, increase our impact and support delivery of our mission.

We are looking for a strategic, outward‑facing leader to establish and lead this new role. You will bring political insight, strong judgement and the ability to turn evidence and policy into compelling public‑facing narrative. You will oversee parliamentary engagement, policy adoption, campaigns, media relations and organisational narrative, ensuring RSPH’s voice is clear, confident and influential.

This is a rare opportunity to shape a new function and lead teams working across policy, influencing and communications. You will play a central role in raising RSPH’s profile, supporting adoption of our programmes and positioning us as a leading voice on public health, inequalities and the wider public health workforce.

About you

We welcome candidates from policy, public affairs, communications or corporate affairs backgrounds. You will be able to demonstrate:

• Strong political awareness and experience engaging with Parliamentary and national stakeholders
• Confident communications leadership including media, narrative and external messaging
• The ability to build coalitions and secure influence and adoption
• Clear strategic judgement in complex or fast‑moving contexts
• Experience leading and developing teams

In return we offer:

• 25 days annual leave
• Agile hybrid working structure – 9-day fortnight available
• Pension contributions
• BUPA Cash plan
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Membership of the Royal Society for Public Health
• Access to public health knowledge and skills training courses and qualifications
• Organisational commitment to supporting the health and wellbeing of our employees
• Welcoming and friendly team of colleagues, and an active Health Champions programme

RSPH values and actively strives to have a diverse and inclusive workforce in a working environment free from discrimination.

Please do let us know if you require any adjustment to allow you to participate in this recruitment process.

RSPH operates an agile working policy with some attendance at our London office according to business need.

Interviews will be held at our offices in Whitechapel on Monday 20 April.  If you are unable to attend, please indicate this on your application.

We are seeking an exceptional leader who can act as a credible spokesperson and ambassador for the Catholic Union, building trusted relationships across the Church, parliament and wider society and helping to grow the Catholic Union’s influence and engagement in the years ahead.

Founded in 1870, the Catholic Union of Great Britain brings Catholic laity and Catholic social teaching to the public square across England, Wales and Scotland. Working in partnership with dioceses, parishes, MPs, MSPs, MSs, peers and Catholic organisations, our vision is of a society in which Catholic laity are informed, equipped and encouraged to engage in public life.

Our work is shaped by three key themes: engagement, education and encouragement. Through these we foster informed participation in public debate, help Catholics and the wider public understand contemporary social and political issues through a Catholic lens, and inspire greater confidence for Catholics to contribute to civic and community life.

In recent years the Catholic Union has developed from being largely volunteer-led into a more professional and strategically focused organisation, strengthening relationships across the Church and wider society. Our Weekly Briefing, now read by around 6,500 people each week, has become a key channel for parliamentary reporting, Catholic news and reflection.

As Director, you will lead the Catholic Union at an exciting moment in its development. You will represent the Catholic Union publicly, strengthening relationships with bishops, diocesan leaders, parliamentarians and Catholic organisations. You will act as a trusted ambassador for the Union, grow our channels of influence and engagement, and work with Trustees, Council and a small experienced team to support the organisation’s continued development.

If you are inspired by the opportunity to serve as a public voice for a respected Catholic organisation and help foster thoughtful dialogue and engagement in public life, we would love to hear from you.

For more information, please see the job pack attached. Closing date 10th April.

Endometriosis UK is the leading UK charity supporting those living with endometriosis. Formed in 1981, we offer information and support, for example through our website, information leaflets and webinars, and via our local support groups, Helplines and online forum.  As well as directly supporting those with endometriosis, we work to raise awareness of endometriosis amongst healthcare professionals, the public and the media; lobby for improved diagnosis, treatment and management; and support research. We have a big job to do and ambitious plans.

We are looking for an experienced Policy and Campaigns Manager to manage our policy and campaigning work. You will have a strong understanding of the UK political system and how to influence it, and will be confident in drafting reports, consultation responses and working with and disseminating data. You will have worked on health policy before, and will have strong knowledge of how to influence health policy at local and national level.
You must be pro-active in your approach to monitoring the external environment and seeking out opportunities for Endometriosis UK to have the most influence. You’ll be able to work in a small team and understand how we can make the most impact with our limited capacity.

You will be passionate about menstrual health and ensuring patient voices are at the heart of all we deliver, and will be able to turn policy asks into strong campaigns.

 About the role:

This is a pivotal role in our Campaigns and Communications Team, reporting to the Head of Campaigns and Communications. You will be managing the drafting of evidenced-based policy positions (for example analysing research, data and lived experience insight) and work with the Head of Campaigns and Communications to ensure these are translated into effective campaigning activity that drives real change.

You will oversee the integration of policy and campaigns activity, working closely with the Campaigns and Policy Officer, and enabling the Chief Executive and Senior Leadership Team to engage with parliamentary and high-level stakeholder engagement.

This role offers a great opportunity for an experienced Policy and Campaigns Manager to shape how Endometriosis UK uses evidence, policy and campaigning together to improve diagnosis times, access to treatment, and support for those affected by menstrual health conditions across the UK.

Role Overview:
The Talent Set are delighted to partner with the UK’s leading breast cancer charity, on an exciting PR Officer opportunity.

The successful candidate will play a key role in leading media relations, creating impactful content and elevating the charity's profile across the UK media. This role is central to raising awareness of breast cancer, strengthening public understanding and ensuring the charity is seen as a trusted and authoritative voice on breast cancer research, care and support.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and nurture trusted relationships with national, regional and specialist journalists to increase media engagement and understanding of their work.
• Identify and activate media opportunities that position the charity as a leading and trusted authority in breast cancer awareness, research and support.
• Create compelling media content including press releases, statements, blogs and case studies, ensuring timely internal approval and distribution.
• Support media interviews and prepare  spokespeople, ensuring messaging is clear, accurate and impactful.
• Monitor, evaluate and report on media coverage, producing regular impact reports for senior stakeholders and insights to inform future PR activity.
• Manage relationships with media monitoring agencies and external partners to optimise coverage tracking and evaluation.
• Integrate PR activity with digital communication channels to ensure consistent messaging and maximise reach.
• Assist with out-of-hours media support and organisational events when required, ensuring the charity’s voice remains professional and responsive.
• Collaborate with internal teams including campaigns, research, policy, fundraising and support services to align messaging and amplify key initiatives.

Person Specification:

• Significant experience working within a fast-paced press office, PR agency or media environment, with a proven track record of securing positive media coverage.
• Exceptional relationship-building skills with journalists, stakeholders and internal teams.
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and tight deadlines effectively.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a strong eye for storytelling, accuracy and clarity.
• A creative approach to identifying media angles and bringing stories to life for diverse audiences.
• Resourceful, adaptable and confident using digital tools and the Microsoft Office Suite.
• Thorough understanding of the UK media landscape and what makes a story newsworthy.

What’s on Offer

• Salary: £31,000 - £33,500
• Location: Hybrid with 2 days per week in the Central London office
• Contract: Permanent

How to Apply:
To apply, please submit your CV demonstrating your suitability for this role by clicking the Apply Now button (please do not apply via email). We aim to respond to all successful candidates within 48 working hours.

Commitment to Diversity:
The Talent Set are committed to diverse and inclusive recruitment practices, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, disability or age. We actively encourage applications from a wide range of backgrounds and are happy to make reasonable adjustments to ensure a fair recruitment process.