Public affairs officer for jobs

Are you an ambitious self-starter with a passion for politics? Do you want to work for a purpose driven organisation that makes a difference? We are looking for a talented Public Affairs Officer to join our high performing Policy and Public Affairs Team at the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF).

What you will do

At CAF, every one of us contributes to our impact, and as our Public Affairs Officer you too will play an integral part in what we do.

In this role you will be joining an experienced team which engages politicians across the political spectrum and at the highest levels, alongside successfully driving policy change to increase charitable giving. You’ll assist the team in building relationships with MPs and Peers, monitor political developments in the UK, develop creative ways to engage parliamentarians and organise events. 

The Policy and Public Affairs team sits within CAF’s Brand and Marketing division and you will work closely with colleagues in our Media and Communications, International, and Research teams in this role. Together, these teams, and individuals across CAF, work to further our mission to accelerate progress in society towards a fair and sustainable future for all.

Who we are looking for

This role is for you if you have experience of working in public affairs or have relevant transferable skills and are keen to make a difference to society. We are looking for:

• A passion for and strong understanding of UK politics
• An interest in the charity sector
• Experience of parliamentary monitoring and writing briefings
• Experience of organising events
• Experience of building relationships with external stakeholders
• Ability to work at fast pace to tight deadlines
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• A good attention to detail

What CAF offers as an employer

At CAF you will receive:

• Permanent hybrid ways of working where roles allow
• Six weeks holiday plus bank holidays
• A wide range of development opportunities to support personal and professional growth
• Pension scheme with better-than-market employer contribution options
• Social impact benefit scheme

What CAF offers as an employer

At CAF you will receive:

• Permanent hybrid ways of working where roles allow
• Six weeks holiday plus bank holidays
• A wide range of development opportunities to support personal and professional growth
• Pension scheme with better-than-market employer contribution options
• Social impact benefit schemes

About CAF

At Charities Aid Foundation we accelerate social progress by providing essential connections between donors, charities and communities.

We safeguard and deliver vital donations, offer expert advisory services and financial products to donors and charities, and provide tailored charity banking through our award-winning bank CAF Bank.

Our purpose is to enable a better landscape for giving and a fair and sustainable future for all.

If you are interested in joining us as our Public Affairs Officer and being part of an organisation who are people focused and are “Together Building Opportunity” please click on the apply button and you will be redirected to CAF jobs portal where you can find out more about the position and apply.

We would love to hear from you!

Job Reference: VB186

Prospectus are working with a purpose led organisation operating at the intersection of financial services, public policy, and social impact. With a strong focus on data, transparency, and financial inclusion, the organisation plays an important role in informing policy, supporting responsible decision making, and contributing to wider societal outcomes. This is an exciting opportunity to join a high impact environment and help shape conversations that influence both policy and practice.

Reporting directly to the CEO, with close engagement with the Chair and wider Executive Team, the Public Affairs Officer will lead the organisation’s public affairs and policy activity. You will monitor and analyse legislative and political developments, helping to shape timely and informed responses, while designing and delivering advocacy and campaign strategies aligned to organisational priorities.

The role involves building and maintaining senior relationships across government, regulators, industry, and advocacy groups, as well as producing high quality briefings, consultation responses, and policy papers. You will also play a key role in translating complex data and research into compelling insights, supporting external communications, stakeholder engagement, and the organisation’s overall policy positioning.

The successful candidate will bring proven experience in public affairs, policy, or government relations, alongside a strong understanding of the UK political and legislative landscape. You will be an excellent communicator, with the ability to influence and build credibility with senior stakeholders, and demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving skills. A proactive, resilient, and adaptable approach is essential, as is the ability to manage multiple priorities and work both independently and collaboratively.

Experience in financial services, credit, or related policy areas, and confidence in campaigns, media engagement, or public speaking would be advantageous but is not essential.

If you are looking for a role with visibility, autonomy, and the opportunity to directly influence policy and stakeholder engagement at a senior level, we would be delighted to hear from you.  Please apply in the first instance and we will contact suitable candidates for further conversations. 

At Prospectus we invest in your journey as a candidate and are committed to supporting you with your application. We welcome all candidates to apply, regardless of age, sex/gender, disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, marital status or pregnancy/maternity. If you have any disability and require reasonable adjustment/s to any part of the process, then please contact Catherine Bunting at Prospectus.

Policy and Public Affairs Officer

Location: London, Hybrid - with a minimum 2 days per week in the office
Hours: Full time - 35 hours per week
Contract type: Fixed term contract – 6 months
Salary: £33,000 - £35,000

We’re looking for a proactive and analytical Policy and Public Affairs Officer to support the team through a busy period, following the recent launch of our Graded Model of Miscarriage Care report and the Government’s ongoing National Maternity and Neonatal Investigation.

About the role

This is a new role supporting Tommy’s growing policy and public affairs function. It is an exciting time to join the team and have a significant impact on maternal health policy.

This role will support the team through a busy period by monitoring policy developments and the political landscape, preparing high-quality outputs such as briefings and consultation responses, and helping to build relationships with external stakeholders. The successful candidate will be proactive, analytical, and equally comfortable with developing and analysing policy as they are engaging with Parliamentarians.

How to apply

Please apply via Charity Job by 9am Monday 15 June. We will, however, be reviewing applications on a rolling basis so please do get in touch as soon as you are able to.

Interviews are expected to take place in-person on Monday 22 June. Please indicate in your email if you are unavailable on this date.

Please include

• Your CV

• A cover letter explaining how you meet the job spec/description.

We regret that we cannot accept any applications without both. Please get in touch if you have any questions.

For a full overview of the role, please see the Recruitment Pack for a detailed job description and responsibilities.

Air Ambulances UK

Air Ambulances UK (AAUK) is the national charity supporting the lifesaving work of the UK’s air ambulance charities, enabling them to save even more lives every day.

Purpose of Post

The Policy and Public Affairs Officer will play a key role in supporting the development and delivery of AAUK’s policy and public affairs strategy, aligned with its manifesto.

The role will support engagement with Government, Parliament, and key stakeholders, contribute to policy development and analysis, and help coordinate AAUK’s public affairs activity, including APPG engagement, parliamentary events, and sector-wide influencing work.

The postholder will ensure that AAUK’s policy positions are evidence-based, clear, and impactful.

Key Responsibilities

Policy Development and Analysis

• Support the development of AAUK policy positions across health, emergency services transport, aviation, infrastructure, and other related policy areas supporting AAUK’s manifesto.
• Monitor Government consultations, legislation, and policy developments, producing clear briefings and summaries.
• Contribute to policy papers, consultation responses, briefings, reports, and parliamentary materials.
• Gather insights from stakeholders to inform policy development.
• Support horizon scanning and identification of policy risks and opportunities.

Public Affairs and Parliamentary Engagement

• Support engagement with MPs, Peers, Special Advisers, Civil Servants, and regulatory bodies.
• Assist in the coordination and delivery of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Air Ambulances, including meetings and secretariat support.
• Support planning and delivery of parliamentary events, receptions, roundtables, and stakeholder meetings.
• Track parliamentary activity relevant to AAUK priorities (debates, questions, committees, inquiries).
• Build and maintain effective relationships with key stakeholders across Westminster and devolved governments. 

Stakeholder Engagement and Communications

• Work closely with the UK's air ambulance charities to align messaging and policy priorities.
• Prepare briefing materials for internal and external stakeholders.
• Liaise with communications and fundraising colleagues to ensure consistent and accessible policy messaging.
• Support campaigns and influencing activity across priority policy areas.
• Maintain accurate stakeholder engagement records and tracking systems.

Research and Intelligence

• Conduct research into relevant policy, legislative, and sector developments.
• Monitor political and media developments, providing timely updates and insights.
• Contribute to evidence gathering and analysis to support policy positions.
• Support evaluation of policy and public affairs activity.

Other Responsibilities

• Represent AAUK professionally in internal and external meetings where required.
• Support AAUK’s vision, values, and strategic priorities.
• Undertake any other duties reasonably required to support the organisation.
• Promote equality, diversity, and inclusion in all areas of work.
• Comply with relevant legal and regulatory requirements, including GDPR and Charity Commission guidance. 
   

Essential Skills & Experience

• Experience in policy, public affairs, stakeholder engagement, communications, or a related field.
• Experience producing policy briefings, reports, consultation responses, campaigns, or stakeholder materials.
• Experience engaging with stakeholders such as MPs, civil servants, regulators, sector bodies, or partner organisations.
• Strong written communication, research, and analytical skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work to deadlines.
• Ability to build effective working relationships across a range of stakeholders.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Understanding of the UK political system, Parliament, and Government processes.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a small team.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and maintaining accurate stakeholder records.
   

Desirable Skills & Experience

• Experience supporting parliamentary engagement activity or an APPG.
• Experience delivering events, receptions, or stakeholder roundtables.
• Experience within health, emergency services, aviation, transport, or infrastructure policy.
• Experience using CRM or stakeholder management systems.
• Knowledge of the third sector or the wider emergency healthcare environment.
• Awareness of how influencing, campaigning, and lobbying activity is delivered in practice. 

Key Attributes

• Politically aware with sound judgement and discretion.
• Proactive, resilient, and self-motivated.
• Collaborative and flexible approach to work.
• High professional standards and attention to detail.
• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
• Interest in policy development and system change.
   

Other Requirements

• Ability to work remotely while maintaining confidentiality.
• Willingness to travel across the UK, including London/Westminster.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle (desirable).
   

Benefits

• 36 days annual leave (including Bank Holidays FTE).
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Access to Blue Light Card and Blue Light Events.
• Pension contributions.
• Training and development opportunities.
• Life Assurance policy cover.
• Development opportunities.
   

Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion

AAUK is committed to diversity and equality of opportunity in all aspects of our work. We actively encourage applications from under-represented groups and are committed to building an inclusive workplace.

 
Application Process

Applications should be submitted via CV and covering letter. Your covering letter should clearly demonstrate how your experience meets the requirements of the role.

Deadline for applications: 12 June 2026.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview w/c 22 June 2026.

This is a fixed-term role, reviewed during the contract period. Future decisions on medium- and longer-term resourcing will form part of our organisational strategy and financial planning.

Are you a dog lover who has a knack for telling a great story?
We’re on the hunt for a PR Officer, who will play a key role in connecting the public with our work through compelling media coverage.

What does this role do?
As PR Officer, you’ll:

• play a key role in the running of our busy press office, responding to requests from journalists swiftly and effectively, underpinned by a strong understanding of PR and reputational risk,
• generate pro-active media coverage for specific campaigns, writing news stories that effectively convey our key messages to journalists and the wider public,
• collaborate with centre-based Media Coordinators and Centre Managers to share positive stories about dogs in their centre, helping spread the word about the amazing work we do,
• work closely with the Public Affairs team on their campaigns, providing PR expertise and support to exciting campaigns such as to end greyhound racing and improve the rights of pet-owning renters.

Interviews for this role are provisionally scheduled for 24th June 2026 and will take place in person at our London office.

Could this be you?
To be successful in this role, you’ll need a good amount of PR experience, with excellent communication skills, specifically the ability to write compelling stories and brief senior stakeholders. You’ll be proactive, creative, and actively seek opportunities to share good-news stories that celebrate our work. You’ll be organised and a strong multi-tasker, as this role will involve working on longer-term projects as well as reactive work. Above all, you’ll be passionate about dogs and the work we do.

About Dogs Trust
We love dogs. That’s why we do whatever we can to make sure every four-legged friend gets the love they deserve. We’ll never put a healthy dog down, so our work is focused on helping dogs in need, supporting owners every step of the walk, and creating a better world for dogs in the future. It’s what we’ve been doing since 1891 and how we’ve grown to become the UK’s leading dog charity, helping 12,000 loyal friends find their forever homes every year.

To apply for this position please click the APPLY NOW button. Our application process requires you submit a personal statement explaining your interest and suitability for the role.
 
Dogs are incredibly diverse, much like the humans that love them! At Dogs Trust we value diversity, and we're committed to fostering an inclusive culture. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, abilities, and cultures and believe that a diverse workforce helps us to achieve our mission. Our colleague networks give our people a voice, acting as vehicles for real and meaningful change within Dogs Trust. We truly want to see every candidate shine throughout the entire job application process, interview stages, and during their time with us. If there's anything on your mind or any adjustments you may need, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to support you every step of the way.

We are SafeLives, the UK-wide charity dedicated to ending domestic abuse, for everyone and for good.

We work with organisations across the UK to transform the response to domestic abuse. We want what you would want for your best friend. We listen to survivors, putting their voices at the heart of our thinking. We look at the whole picture for each individual and family to get the right help at the right time to make families everywhere safe and well. And we challenge perpetrators to change, asking ‘why doesn’t he stop?’ rather than ‘why doesn’t she leave?’ This applies whatever the gender of the victim or perpetrator and whatever the nature of their relationship.

Last year alone, nearly 13,500 professionals received our training. Over 70,000 adults at risk of serious harm or murder and more than 85,000 children received support through dedicated multi-agency support designed by us and delivered with partners. In the last four years, over 2,000 perpetrators have been challenged and supported to change by interventions we created with partners, and that’s just the start.

Together we can end domestic abuse. Forever. For everyone.

This is a broad and varied role across Policy, Public Affairs and Communications, with a specific focus on the Drive Project:

The Drive Project is the Drive Partnership’s flagship intervention for high-risk, high-harm and serial perpetrators of domestic abuse. The core mission of the Drive Project is to stop the cycle of domestic abuse and increase the immediate and long-term safety of adult and child victim-survivors. The Drive Project does this by partnering with agencies and local perpetrator services to disrupt, challenge, and change the behaviour of high-risk, high-harm and serial perpetrators, and working closely with IDVAs and victim-survivor services to always centre the safety and needs of victim-survivors, in line with the Respect Standard.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Communications

• Support the Drive Partnership’s communications and stakeholder engagement regarding the Drive Project.
• Lead central support on communications for Drive Project partners and build strong working relationships across network, ensuring both policy and communications expertise and input flows both ways.
• Work closely with internal and external partner colleagues to support the safe and effective roll-out of the Drive Project across England and Wales.
• Support the delivery of the Drive Partnership’s communications plan, including website content, social media, newsletters, and events.
• Develop and maintain communications and branding guidelines and support the Drive Partnership team and network of partners to use correctly.
• Support the Policy, Public Affairs and Communications Manager in developing media relations, including media enquiries, drafting press releases and responses.
• Ensure the website is fit for purpose and up to date with relevant information and news.
• Ensure victim-survivor voice guides our communications thinking and output - engaging in a compassionate, considerate and effective way with victim-survivors through Pioneer interaction, colleagues and any other interaction we have in our daily work.
• Ensure service user (perpetrator) input is collated and utilised in a responsible and safe way – always centring victim-survivors and considering their safety within this work.
• Project and promote our values – through considered language, inclusivity and equality in Drive Partnership communications.

Policy and Public Affairs

• Support the Policy, Public Affairs and Communications Manager to develop and promote policy positions, drawing on the expertise of the partnership.
• Lead and coordinate policy input into the Government’s strategic approach to perpetrators, particularly through influencing on the Drive Partnership’s key recommendations within its Call for Further Action.
• Identify and act on policy opportunities to promote best practice in perpetrator interventions – including both risk management and behaviour change, such as select committee enquiries, consultations, Bills, news developments.
• Build relationships with politicians, voluntary sector, civil servants and professional bodies, deputising for the Policy, Public Affairs and Communications Manager in key meetings where required.
• Support the coordination of sector and stakeholder forums to enhance collaboration towards a more strategic approach to perpetrators of domestic abuse.

Internal

• Play a role in the development of the team, nurturing and drawing on the talents of others.
• Maintain an accurate and secure audit trail of all relevant communication and ensure that all work is compliant with data protection law.
• Engage in a compassionate, considerate and effective way with all victim-survivors through Pioneer interaction, colleagues and any other interaction we have in our daily work.
• Undertake any other duties as may reasonably be required.

Person Specification

Experience

Experience of communications planning and delivery:

• Digital communication and website management (E)
• Using data and evidence in communications (E)
• Experience in reactive and crisis communications (D)
• Experience of working with the media and journalists (D)
• Experience of developing a communications plan (D)
• Creative and innovative approach to presenting information across different formats and channels, for a range of audiences (D)

Experience of working with a range of internal and external stakeholders to influence policy:

• Experience of working in coalitions or partnerships (E)
• Experience of building and maintaining good relationships with a range of stakeholders (E)
• Experience working with policymakers/parliamentarians to influence policy (D)
• Experience of working with people with lived experience of the issue at hand (D)

Skills

• Creativity and fluency
• Organisational skills

Competencies

• Teamwork and collaboration
• Communication and relationship management
• Delivering quality
• Goal orientation
• Influence

Leukaemia UK – Our Charity
We are a ‘small but mighty’ charity with one big ambition: to stop leukaemia devastating lives. Over the next 10 years we want to help save and improve the lives of more people with leukaemia through funding life-changing research and campaigning for change. Despite decades of incredible progress, only half of leukaemia patients live longer than five years after their diagnosis. We won't stop until we change this.

We are looking for a Public Affairs and Campaigns Manager to join the Policy and Advocacy team. At a pivotal moment for Leukaemia UK, they will lead and manage our political influencing work, ensuring our profile and reputation remains high and we are able to influence political decisions.

With our new strategy period beginning in 2027, over the next 5 years we plan to increase our investment into ground-breaking research and campaigning to improve diagnosis, treatment and care. We are in a period of significant growth, investing to grow our income, profile, influence, engagement and impact.

Having developed our policy, public affairs and campaigns function over the current strategy period, this role will help take this to the next level and play a key role in strengthening our ability to influence change across the UK.

Team

We are a close-knit team, who are all passionate about Leukaemia UK and putting those affected by the disease at the heart of everything we do. We are all focused on pragmatic, practical solutions, as well as ensuring that our charity gets the funding it needs to continue to help those diagnosed with leukaemia and related conditions.

As a small organisation with just over 30 employees, every role counts. We have ambitious plans and we rely on individuals being self-starters, resilient and used to working at pace to maximise our collective impact. We are all about delivering exceptional expertise and making a real change to people’s lives.

Leukaemia UK and You

We are looking for a self-motivated Public Affairs and Campaigns Manager to join our team, taking a leading role in shaping and delivering Leukaemia UK’s influencing and campaigning activity to drive policy change. The successful candidate will be an innovative, driven and forward-thinking individual with a proven track record of delivering impactful public affairs and campaigning work within the health charity sector. You will work closely with the Head of Policy and Advocacy and the Policy Officer to ensure a coordinated, insight‑led and strategically aligned approach to policy development, public affairs and campaigning activity across the organisation.

The Public Affairs and Campaigns Manager will be instrumental in strengthening and growing the charity’s profile, influence and impact among political stakeholders and senior civil servants across all four UK administrations. This role will ensure that the ‘patient voice’ is heard and acted upon by key decision-makers, while also ensuring that the needs and priorities of individuals affected by leukaemia are understood, represented, valued and embedded within our influencing and campaigning strategies.

Alongside this, you will lead the development of creative and innovative campaigning approaches, using a range of tactics to effectively engage supporters, partners and policy makers in our work. You will create compelling opportunities for stakeholders to join our efforts to drive policy change, and ensure that our campaigns are visible, impactful and aligned to our policy priorities.

You will work closely with the Communications team to ensure that campaigning to drive policy change is clearly understood, amplified and embedded across digital channels and content strategies, maximising reach, engagement and impact. You will also support with identifying and developing new opportunities for PR, media engagement and thought leadership to strengthen Leukaemia UK’s position as a credible and influential voice in the sector. You will be representing Leukaemia UK in multiple charity coalitions and forums to ensure that leukaemia is represented on the political agenda.

The successful candidate will be adept at articulating evidence-based policy positions to policy makers, healthcare professionals, researchers, effectively representing the perspectives of those affected by leukaemia. They will have the ability to influence a wide range of senior stakeholders to drive progress and bring about meaningful change. A strong understanding of the external political landscape, coupled with exceptional communication skills and attention to detail, is essential.

This role does not currently include direct line management responsibility but will play a key role in coordinating activity across the Policy and Advocacy function, with potential to take on management responsibilities as the team grows.

Experience and skills

Essential 

• Experience of working within public affairs and/or campaigning, with demonstrable impact in influencing policy or driving change (candidates should have strong experience in at least one of these areas, with an understanding of how they work together)
• Experience of influencing government, policy makers and/or decision makers, preferably within the health, research or charity sector
• Experience of developing and delivering public affairs and/or campaigning strategies, including planning, delivery and evaluation
• Experience of engaging and managing a range of stakeholders, including policy makers, partners, and supporters
• Experience of producing high-quality written outputs such as briefings, consultation responses, or campaign materials to influence decision makers
• Experience of working collaboratively across teams, particularly with communications functions
• Experience of monitoring and evaluating activity to assess impact and inform future approaches
• Experience of delivering multiple projects and programmes in a fast-paced environment

Desirable

• Experience of integrating campaigning with digital, PR or communications strategies
• Experience of identifying PR, media or thought leadership opportunities
• Experience of working in the cancer or wider health policy environment
• Experience of line management or supporting others’ development

Knowledge and personal traits

Essential

• Strong understanding of the UK political and policy landscape, including how decisions are made and influenced
• Understanding of how public affairs and campaigning can work together to drive change, including supporter engagement and mobilisation
• Ability to think strategically and identify opportunities to influence policy and public debate
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate complex issues clearly to different audiences
• Strong relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage and influence stakeholders with differing perspectives
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail
• A strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, and an understanding of the importance of engaging with patients and underrepresented groups
• A proactive, collaborative and solutions-focused approach, with the ability to work at pace

Desirable

• Knowledge of the cancer, research or NHS policy landscape
• Experience of working with patients or in an advocacy capacity

Role Specifics

• Full time: 37.5 hours per week, worked Monday to Friday.
• Location: We are very flexible! Our offices are based in Central London, and we operate hybrid working.  In this role you are required to work from the office at least one day per fortnight and as appropriate, to  undertake the proper performance of the role duties regarding internal and external meetings and activities.
• Annual Salary: £40,000 - £50,000

Benefits- We are proud of our benefits

• 36 days holiday per year, including bank holidays- pro rata for part time employees
• Pension – default is 4% employee and 4% employer and we match up to 6%
• Life Assurance – x 4 cover
• Critical Illness Cover
• Cash back healthcare scheme & Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
• Hybrid Working
• Company sick pay
• Individual training budgets

Applications and interview timings 

If you feel you have the passion for our work and the right mix of experience, skills, energy, and flair, then we would love you to apply. Please also see the full job description attached to the advert.  To minimise unconscious bias, we use anonymous recruitment and are unable to consider direct applications. Please apply via the CharityJob website with your CV and covering letter.

Closing Date: 9am Monday 22nd June 2026

• First interviews will be held via Teams on Thursday 2nd July 2026
• Second interviews will be face to face in our London Offices – at 26 Great Queen St, London WC2B 5BL on Thursday 9th July 2026

I look forward to hearing from you! 

Georgia

Georgia Papacleovoulou

Head of Policy & Advocacy

Leukaemia UK

Head of Policy and Public Affairs (Devolved Nations)
£59,640 pa plus excellent benefits
Home-based in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland
35 hours per week, full-time
Permanent

The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) is seeking an experienced and strategic policy and public affairs leader to head our devolved nations policy and public affairs function. This is a high-profile leadership role with a unique opportunity to influence policy, advocate for children and young people, and drive improvements in child health outcomes across Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Reporting to the Associate Director of Policy and External Affairs and sitting on the Membership, Policy and External Affairs Divisional Management Team, you will lead the College’s policy and public affairs activity across the devolved nations. You will develop and deliver impactful advocacy strategies, build strong relationships with governments and policymakers, and ensure the College’s voice is heard on the issues that matter most to paediatricians, children and young people.

You will provide leadership to a team of Policy and Public Affairs Managers and work closely with College Officers, members, committees and colleagues across the organisation to maximise the College’s influence and impact.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading the strategic planning and prioritisation of RCPCH policy and public affairs activities across Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
• Developing and delivering influential public affairs and advocacy strategies to support the College’s policy priorities
• Providing expert advice on child health, healthcare delivery, workforce, public health and safeguarding policy across the devolved nations
• Managing and developing a team of three Policy and Public Affairs Managers
• Overseeing the production of high-quality policy reports, consultation responses, briefings and stakeholder communications
• Building and maintaining effective relationships with governments, policymakers, Royal Colleges, health bodies and external partners
• Working collaboratively with the Health Policy, Media and Public Affairs, Membership and Education teams to align priorities and maximise impact
• Supporting Devolved Nations Officers and committees to advocate effectively on behalf of members
• Leading the identification of opportunities to raise the College’s profile and influence policy development
• Managing a budget of approximately £60,000 and ensuring effective use of resources

Essential skills and experience include:

• Degree-level qualification, postgraduate qualification or equivalent relevant professional experience
• Strong understanding of the UK political and health policy landscape, particularly within Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
• Significant experience leading policy development and public affairs activity
• Proven experience producing and overseeing policy reports, consultation responses and briefing materials
• Demonstrable success in delivering public affairs campaigns with measurable impact
• Excellent stakeholder management skills with experience influencing senior political, policy and clinical audiences
• Outstanding communication skills, with the ability to adapt messages for different audiences and channels
• Strong leadership and people management experience
• Excellent project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver high-quality outcomes
• Experience of budget management, planning and forecasting

Desirable:

• Experience leading policy development relating to health services, children’s services or child health
• Experience working within healthcare, children's services or public sector organisations
• Experience working within a membership organisation or professional body

The RCPCH has more than 25,000 members and fellows worldwide and employs around 200 staff across the UK. Our devolved nations teams play a vital role in ensuring that the needs of children and young people are represented at every level of government and policy-making.

Our values – Include, Influence, Innovate and Inspire – are central to everything we do. We are committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds. We particularly encourage applications from Black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates and disabled candidates who are under-represented at this level of the organisation.

We operate a flexible and modern hybrid working policy. While this role is home-based in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, travel across the devolved nations and occasional travel elsewhere in the UK will be required.

Closing date: 24 June 2026.

Marie Curie is the UK’s leading end-of-life charity. We are the largest non-NHS provider of end-of-life care in the UK, the only provider across all 4 nations, delivering community nursing and hospice care across the country, while providing information and support on all aspects of dying, death, and bereavement. Our leading research pushes the boundaries of what we know about good end-of-life, and our campaigns fight for a world where everyone gets to have the best possible quality of life while living with an illness, they’re likely to die from.

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Associate Director of Policy & Public Affairs England to lead our work shaping policy and public debate on end-of-life care. This is a high-profile, outward-facing leadership role where you’ll play a critical part in ensuring that the experiences of people affected by death, dying and bereavement are at the heart of political and public discourse across England.

The postholder will lead the development and delivery of policy and public affairs strategy in England, using evidence, partnerships and campaigning to influence decision-makers and improve end-of-life care. You will be a visible external voice for Marie Curie—engaging with government, Parliament, the NHS, media, and the wider charity sector to drive meaningful change. Working as part of a UK-wide leadership team, you will also help shape a coordinated policy and influencing approach across all four nations.

Your Impact: 

· Shape the policy agenda in England to ensure that issues of dying, death and bereavement are at the heart of contemporary policy debates.

· Create & lead the delivery of strategies for proactively engaging with and influencing Members of Parliament, Government officials, Local Authorities, health commissioning bodies, and other national and local decision makers.

· Analyse and respond to policy developments within the UK Government, and other relevant public bodies.

· As Marie Curie’s main spokesperson on policy and public affairs issues in England, develop the charity’s public profile, represent and convey its views through media interviews, speaking engagements, written articles, letters and participation at conferences and events.

· Partner and work closely with research teams across Marie Curie, external partners and academia to identify opportunities to inform policy and public affairs activities.

· Lead and manage the Policy and Public Affairs team, supporting their development.

Key Criteria:

· Established experience in a policy and public affairs role with a strong track record of successfully campaigning and lobbying.

· Experience of working with the media, developing relationships with key journalists, giving interviews and securing media support.

· Solid understanding of the structure and working of the Government, health and social care organisations and local authorities. Political astuteness and judgement in dealing with the Government and politicians.

· Comprehensive knowledge of health and social care policy issues and an understanding of the complex issues involved in end-of-life care.

· Excellent, effective and influential communications skills, including the ability to communicate with a wide range of audiences including the media, organisations and public bodies.

· Outstanding organisational skills, including the ability to use initiative, to prioritise workload and work under pressure to tight schedules and deadlines.

· Experience line managing and leading a team.

· Ability to travel across the UK and work out of regular hours on occasion.

Please see the full job description here.

Application & Interview Process

· As part of your online application, you will be asked to submit your CV and answer additional questions. Please review both the advert and job description and outline your most relevant skills, experience and knowledge for the role.

· Close date for applications: Monday 15 June.

Salary: Up to £80,000 per annum depending on experience.

Contract:  Permanent

Based: UK Hybrid, with at least one day per week at our headquarters in Embassy Gardens, London.

Benefits you’ll LOVE:

· Flexible working. We’re happy to discuss flexible working at the interview stage.

· 25 days annual leave (exclusive of Bank Holidays)

· Marie Curie Group Personal Pension Scheme (we will match your contribution up to 7.5%)

· Loan schemes for bikes; computers and season tickets

· Continuous professional development opportunities.

· Industry-leading training programmes

· Wellbeing and Employee Assistance Programmes

· Enhanced bereavement, family friendly and sickness benefits

· Access to Blue Light Card membership

· Subsidised Eye Care

The Public Interest News Foundation (PINF) is the UK’s first charity that exists to promote high-quality journalism. Last year, we launched an ambitious ten-year mission to regenerate local news in the UK. We believe that local news is a vital part of the fabric of local communities, drawing people together around shared facts and pride in place at a time of disinformation and division.

We are pursuing our mission by (1) sourcing new funds for local news; (2) advocating for supportive government policies; and (3) celebrating local news providers from the UK and around the world that are Accountable, Sustainable, in the Public interest, Innovative, Representative and Engaging (ASPIRE).

Over the last year, we have successfully encouraged the UK Government to launch an unprecedented new £12m Local News Fund. We have also built support for our mission from US and UK donors. And we have launched initiatives such as the Tenacious Journalist Awards, to recognise and support independent news providers who are having a significant social impact.

We have a small and professional staff team and a dedicated board of trustees, and we are now looking to recruit a Programmes Officer to support our work. I hope that you will consider joining us on this exciting and important mission.

Jonathan Heawood, Executive Director

Summary of the Role

Title: Programmes Officer

Salary: £30,000

Benefits: 33 days annual leave including Bank Holidays; 7% employer pension contribution; professional development budget; flexible working

Type: Fixed-term renewable 12-month contract

Time commitment: 35 hours per week, with some scope for flexible working

Location: Remote, with occasional meetings in London or other UK locations, for which PINF will pay travel expenses from within the UK

Reporting to: Deputy Director, who will provide overall line management and lead 60% of the Programmes Officer’s work

Working closely with: Campaigns & Communications Manager, who will lead the remaining 40% of the Programme Officer’s work

Purpose of the Role

The Programmes Officer will support the PINF team across our three workstreams: the Local News Fund; Local News Campaign; and Local News Futures programme.

· Through the Local News Fund, we work with grantmakers and social investors (including government-backed fund managers) to unlock new economic resources for local news across the UK.

· Through the Local News Campaign, we work with the BBC, big tech firms, central and local government, MPs, Peers and regulators to shape a positive enabling environment for local news across the UK.

· Through the Local News Futures programme, we work with academics, civil society organisations, journalism support organisations and local news providers to showcase models of local news with the most positive impact.

The Programmes Officer will provide support with events, research and campaigns across these workstreams, and will also provide support with our organisational functions, including communications, fundraising and governance.

By providing efficient and effective support to the team, the Programmes Officer will unlock new potential for PINF to deliver our charitable purpose.

Key Responsibilities

Events

· Support the Deputy Director with the successful delivery of the annual Local News Forum by:

o Maintaining a comprehensive and up to date project plan

o Contributing to the effective marketing of the event within PINF’s network of independent local news providers and stakeholders

o Managing ticket sales and maintaining an accurate database of invitees and participants

o Contributing to effective working relationships with partners and suppliers, including venues and sponsors

o Managing speakers

o Supporting budget administration, including tracking agreed expenditure and processing spending in line with approved budgets and under the oversight of the Deputy Director

o Responding promptly and efficiently to queries

o Providing on-the-day support including registering participants, liaising with the venue and catering providers, ensuring smooth technical support and troubleshooting any issues as they arise

Research

· Support the Deputy Director with our research objectives by:

o Organising and minuting twice-yearly online meetings of our Research Advisory Group

o Working with colleagues to ensure the Local News Map is comprehensive and up to date

o Liaising with independent local news providers to support the new Local News Audit

Campaigns

· Support the Campaigns & Communications Manager with our campaign objectives by:

o Managing relationships with independent news providers participating in our annual Indie News Week

o Supporting budget administration for campaign activity, including tracking agreed expenditure and processing spending in line with approved budgets and under the oversight of the Campaigns & Communications Manager

o Supporting key campaign moments including parliamentary events, party conferences, roundtables and other online and offline events

o Providing logistical and administrative support for key campaign moments, including by maintaining participant and invitation lists, tracking RSVPs and preparing background information for colleagues

Communications

· Support the Campaigns & Communications Manager with our communications objectives by:

o Managing the ‘contact’ email inbox

o Supporting the delivery of engaging content across PINF’s blog and newsletter, including gathering stories, opportunities and other relevant material, in collaboration with the Campaigns & Communications Manager

o Managing PINF’s social media channels including LinkedIn, BlueSky and Instagram

o Updating elements and pages across our website

o Supporting PINF’s WhatsApp community of independent local news providers by sharing relevant content, helping eligible participants to join, and assisting with day-to-day moderation

Fundraising

· Support the Deputy Director with our fundraising objectives by:

o Maintaining the fundraising database and keeping records up to date based on information provided by colleagues

o Facilitating monthly internal fundraising meetings

Other

· Any other tasks as reasonably requested by the Deputy Director

Essential skills and experience

· Experience in an administrative, coordination or project support role

· Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks, deadlines and priorities

· Strong written and verbal communication skills

· Confidence using Microsoft Office and other common digital tools to organise work, manage information and communicate effectively

· Ability to work collaboratively in a small team and to support colleagues across different areas of work

· A high level of accuracy and attention to detail

· Support for PINF’s mission and charitable purpose

· Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

Desirable skills and experience

· Experience of supporting events, campaigns, communications or fundraising activity

· Experience of working in a charity, membership body, media organisation or other mission-driven organisation

· Familiarity with website, newsletter or social media content management

· An understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing local and independent news providers in the UK

How to apply

· Please apply through CharityJob.

· In your application, you will be asked to provide a short example of how your previous experience makes you a strong candidate for this role. We encourage applicants not to use generative AI to draft this part of the application, as we are interested to hear about your own experience in your own words!

· If you require any adjustments to support your application, please let us know when you apply.

We particularly welcome applications from people whose backgrounds and perspectives are underrepresented in charities and the news sector.

About Us

The Early Education and Childcare Coalition unites the voices of parents, children, providers, early years professionals and the wider business community, working together for investment and reform of early education and childcare in England.

We believe that we all benefit from a well-functioning early education system and we all have a role to play in ensuring it works for children, parents and the economy.

We are backed by some of the most high-profile campaign and research organisations in the UK. Our members include early years provider membership bodies, parent campaign groups, early childhood experts, trade unions, the business lobby, anti-poverty campaigners and NGOs. Together, we use our collective voice and research to build public and political support for early education and childcare. And it’s worked. Thanks to the dedication of our members, early years is one of the top priorities for the government’s Plan for Change.

But our work isn’t done – we have an ambitious agenda to ‘rescue and reform’ the system, ensuring that:

• Every child can access high-quality education and care that their parents can afford and that will support them to thrive
• Every provider is funded fairly for the places they offer
• Every early years professional is rewarded and recognised for the skilled work they do

This is an exciting time to join the Coalition. We have experienced significant growth in recent years and with early years firmly on the policy agenda, we expect this to continue.

We are now looking to appoint a Deputy Director to help steer that work and further drive the development of the Coalition. You will work closely with the Executive Director (ED) to lead our influencing work at the highest level, strengthening our policy platform, and ensuring we translate evidence into meaningful impact. At the same time, you will play a pivotal role in supporting a talented and experienced team and shape the continued growth of the Coalition as a charitable organisation.

About The Role

• Hours: Full-time, 37.5 hours per week over 5 days. We may consider 4 days per week.
• Duration: Two-year contract, renewed subject to funding.
• Location: Home-working but based in or near London.

· Salary: £62,000 - £64,170 per annum FTE

We are a remote team, with most colleagues based outside London. This role requires regular access to Westminster, so you will need to be based in or within easy reach of London.

We work flexibly and understand the realities of balancing work with caring commitments. We trust you to manage your time but expect that most of your hours are worked within core office hours to fulfil the requirements of the role. To support fluent remote working, we require all staff to work on Thursdays.

This is a dual role, delivering our policy, engagement and public affairs strategy while also supporting the Executive Director to grow the Coalition as an organisation and movement. You will play a central role in shaping the Coalition’s strategy, culture and growth. This is a senior, outward-facing role, suited to someone who can think strategically, build influence at the highest levels, and remain hands-on within a small and ambitious team.

About You

You are a senior public affairs professional with a strong track record of strategic influencing and engagement to shape policy. You bring robust judgement and credibility and are motivated by the opportunity to deliver meaningful change in a high-profile policy area and may have experience on public-service reform.

You are equally comfortable setting direction and delivering through others as you are rolling up your sleeves to respond to fast-moving political developments. You are a confident relationship-builder who can operate effectively at senior levels, while working collaboratively across a diverse coalition.

You should have previous experience of managing functions and teams and working in senior leadership teams. Ideally you will be live to the challenges of working in a small, but high-impact national organisation and have experience of scaling teams and functions.

What You Can Expect To Be Doing

• Executive leadership
  This will include supporting the ED with key senior stakeholder relationships including funders, ministers and policymakers. You will be required to deputise for the ED during periods of leave or when directed to do so. This is a pivotal role which straddles the executive and senior leadership functions. Consequently, you will be expected to make decisions that balance multiple interests and help scale and grow the Coalition as a sustainable organisation.
• Lead the Coalition’s policy and influencing function
  Work with the Senior Leadership Team and Coalition members to turn evidence into clear, credible policy positions and priorities, ensuring members are aligned, informed and able to contribute.
• Develop and deliver a cross-party influencing strategy
  Building on the Coalition’s profile, you will further nurture and maintain relationships with MPs, peers, special advisers, civil servants and key stakeholders, ensuring strong reach across Westminster, local government and the wider policy community.
• Maximise key moments for impact
  Identify and respond to opportunities in the parliamentary and policy cycle to maximise influence, including producing briefings, consultation responses and submissions.
• Oversee policy-related events to support engagement
  Lead activity such as events, roundtables and party conference attendance to strengthen the Coalition’s visibility and impact.
• Align policy, public affairs, research and communications
  Work closely with the Head of Communications and Campaigns, and the Associate Director of Research to ensure a joined-up approach across research, influencing, media and campaigning.
• Represent the Coalition externally
  Act as a senior spokesperson at high-level meetings, events, and in the media where appropriate.
• Strengthen how we measure impact
  Work with the Executive Director to further develop our impact framework, improving how we track, evaluate and communicate influence.
• Lead and develop the team
  Provide support to team members, fostering a collaborative, inclusive and high-performing culture.

Person Specification

Essential

• Experience of leading a team or working at executive/senior leadership levels where you have managed budgets and had to make decisions related to organisational effectiveness. This should also include demonstrable experience of building and nurturing teams that can deliver an organisational strategy.
• Proven experience leading influencing functions in an advocacy or policy environment and delivering change
• Experience turning research and insight into clear, credible and persuasive policy positions.
• Knowledge of system change approaches, ideally within public service reform or similar
• Knowledge of how Government, Parliament, Whitehall, political parties and the wider policy community operate, and how to navigate them effectively.
• Able to operate confidently in complex, fast-moving and politically sensitive environments, working across party lines with diplomacy.
• Demonstrable experience building and maintaining trusted relationships with politicians, advisers, officials and sector leaders.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience producing high-quality briefings and representing organisations externally.
• Experience of supporting fundraising activities either through relationship-building or bid-writing.

Desirable

• Understanding of early education and childcare policy in England and the challenges currently facing the system.
• Experience working in or with coalitions, membership organisations or alliances.
• Proven ability to work flexibly as part of a small, remote team.

The application process

Please apply with a CV and cover letter (no more than two pages) by the listed closing date. No agencies please. We recognise that the use of AI technologies can be useful in reducing the work that goes into job-hunting, however, we kindly request that you use your cover letter to evidence that you have understood the requirements of the role and provide examples of how you can meet the criteria.

The EECC is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. We use anonymous recruiting during the application process and we use positive action under section 159 of the Equality Act in relation to disability or race. This means that if we have two candidates of equal merit in our process, we will seek to take forward the disabled or Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic candidate in order to diversify our staff team.

We regret that our small team does not have capacity to provide individual feedback on every application.

Recruitment timeline

• Closing date: 23:30, Thursday 11th June. 
• Notified for interview by: Tuesday 16th June
• Interviews: We expect this to be a two-stage interview process with first interviews held on either 24th or 25th June and second stage interviews arranged an agreed time.

In the event that we don't receive suitable applications, we may extend this deadline and timeline.

Crisis is the national charity for people experiencing homelessness. We have embarked on our 10-year strategy for ending homelessness. We know it is not inevitable. We know together we can end it.

About us

Crisis is the national charity for people experiencing homelessness. We know that homelessness is not inevitable. We know that together we can end it.

This is an extremely exciting time to join the team, as we anticipate the implementation of new homelessness legislation that holds the potential to be world leading and seek to develop relationships with the newly elected Senedd and Welsh Government.

You will lead our agenda in Wales to achieve positive and lasting change to end homelessness. This is an extremely exciting time to join the team, as the Wales Government introduces homelessness prevention legislation that will be world leading.

Location: Crisis Skylight South Wales, 163 St Helens Road, Swansea, SA14DQ. Option of hybrid working from home (minimum 1 day a week in the Skylight) with the ability to travel across Wales and within the UK for training and meetings.

Contract: Fixed term up to 11 months (available as a secondment)

Salary: £57,452 per annum

About the role

As Head of Policy and Communications in Wales you will lead a team working across policy, public affairs and communications to deliver the changes needed to address homelessness in Wales. After the formation of a new government in Wales, this role will be working closely with politicians, government officials, sector leads, and people with lived experience of homelessness to ensure Crisis’ goal of ending all forms of homelessness in Wales is a priority and bring about the changes needed to meet this goal.

About you

To be successful in this role you will have excellent knowledge and experience of developing and securing policy change at a national government level and raising the profile of an organisation through advocacy and strategic communications.

Ideally you will have experience across policy, public affairs and media work, and excel at building stakeholder relations. You will be an experienced spokesperson and understand how to communicate policy matters in a simple and concise way. You will have understanding and knowledge of developing policy and influencing objectives informed by frontline staff and working with people with lived experience of an issue and staff.

Please see the full Job Pack linked below, for a full list of requirements for this role. We realise that long lists of criteria can be daunting, and you may not want to apply for a role unless you feel 100% qualified. However, if you feel you have relevant examples to answer the screening questions, we encourage you to apply.

We believe diversity is a strength, and our aim is to make sure that Crisis truly reflects the communities we serve. We are actively working towards our organisation being a place where everyone can thrive and make their best contribution to our mission of ending homelessness for good. We know that the more perspectives, voices, and experiences we can bring to this work, the better. We particularly welcome applications from people who have lived experience of homelessness, and people from all marginalised groups, communities and backgrounds.

Working at Crisis

Our values, Bold, Impactful, Collaborative and Equitable, are at the heart of everything we do as we continue in our mission to end homelessness.

Our staff, members and volunteers are vital to getting the right government policies in place, providing breakthrough services, and building a supportive community. We’ll lead by example to nurture a positive and ambitious workplace guided by ending homelessness.

As a member of the team, you will have access to a wide range of employee benefits including:

• A competitive salary. Please note our salaries are fixed to counter inequity and we do not negotiate at offer stage
• Interest free loans for travel season ticket, cycle to work, and deposit to secure a tenancy
• Pension scheme with an employer contribution of 8.5%
• 28 days’ annual leave (pro rata) which increases with service to 31 days and the option to purchase up to 10 additional days leave
• Flexible working around the core hours 10am-4pm
• And more! (Full list of benefits available on website)

Alongside our excellent staff benefits, we will support your ongoing development to build your skills, experience and career.

When you join us, you will have the opportunity to join our staff diversity networks, which aim to champion issues across the organisation, enable staff to be their authentic and best selves and contribute to making Crisis a truly diverse organisation.

When you join us, you will have the opportunity to join our staff diversity networks, which aim to champion issues across the organisation, enable staff to be their authentic and best selves and contribute to making Crisis a truly diverse organisation.

How do I apply?

Please click on the 'Apply for Job' button below. Our shortlisting process is anonymised as part of our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We do not ask for CVs, instead we ask you complete the work history section and answer the screening questions for us to be able to assess you fairly and objectively. At least two members of staff score all applications.

Closing date: Sunday 14th June at 23:59

Interview date and location: Friday 26th June, in-person at Crisis Skylight South Wales, 163 St Helens Road, Swansea, SA1 4DQ

AI in Job Applications

We understand some candidates use AI tools when applying. Whilst we welcome the use of technology to support clear communication and structure, we want to learn more about you, so please ensure that your application reflects your own skills, knowledge and experiences.

Accessibility

We want our recruitment process to be as accessible as possible. If you need us to make an adjustment or provide additional support as you apply for a role, please contact our Talent Acquisition team to discuss how we can help.

For more information about our work please visit

@Crisis_Cymru on Instagram

@CrisisWales on X

Crisis Skylight South Wales on Facebook

Registered Charity Numbers: E&W1082947, SC040094

Location: Office based in Central Southampton. Hybrid working may be possible on completion of the probation period.

The Role

The Marketing and Communications Officer will lead on promoting the work, services and impact of Citizens Advice Southampton. You will help ensure that local people know how to access advice, that stakeholders understand our impact, and that our voice is heard in local conversations about poverty, inequality and social justice.

Working closely with colleagues across the organisation, you will deliver clear, accessible and inclusive communications that reflect Citizens Advice values and strengthen our profile across Southampton.

The main tasks for the role include, but are not limited to: 

Marketing and Promotion

• Plan and deliver marketing activity to increase awareness of Citizens Advice Southampton services among local communities.
• Promote key services, campaigns and projects using a mix of digital and offline channels.
• Support targeted outreach to under‑represented or vulnerable groups in Southampton.

 Communications and Content

• Manage and regularly update our website content.
• Create engaging content for social media (e.g. posts, graphics, short videos).
• Draft clear and accessible written communications, including newsletters, leaflets, posters and email updates.
• Ensure all communications are consistent with Citizens Advice branding, tone of voice and accessibility standards.

Campaigns and Impact

• Support local and national Citizens Advice campaigns by communicating key messages locally.
• Help translate research, data and case studies into accessible content for the public and stakeholders.
• Work with colleagues to showcase impact stories and outcomes.

 Stakeholder and Media Engagement

• Support relationships with local partners, community organisations and funders through effective communications.
• Assist with media relations, including drafting press releases and responding to local media enquiries where appropriate.

Monitoring and Improvement

• Monitor engagement and reach across communications channels (e.g. website analytics, social media insights).
• Use data and feedback to improve marketing and communications activity over time

 Other duties and responsibilities

• Any other reasonable tasks in keeping with the role
• Promote the aims and objectives of Citizens Advice Southampton
• Abide by and assist in the implementation of organisational policies and procedures including Health and Safety, IT, information and equality and diversity policies.

About you

We are looking for someone who ideally bring charity sector experience in communications, and experience of supporting strong relationships with partners and funders. You will share our passion for community wellbeing and social justice. You’ll be just as comfortable working independently as you will collaboratively alongside our dedicated teams, using your skills to promote awareness of the amazing work done by Citizens Advice Southampton.

The role will involve leading the charity through key challenges including funding pressures, local government reorganisation, and evolving service delivery needs.

Applications

At Citizens Advice, we recognise the positive value of diversity, promoting equity and celebrating inclusion. We welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds.

Please download the application pack on our website and submit your CV and a covering letter outlining how you fit the person specification to Emma Vint.

Please also complete and submit our diversity monitoring form with your application.

The closing date for this vacancy is 9am on Friday 26th June 2026.

Thank you for your interest in Citizens Advice Southampton.

Join SmellTaste and lead the development of the charity’s involvement in research, shaping how lived experience of those affected by smell and taste impairment is integrated in research projects. As Research Development and Engagement Manager, you will lead engagement with researchers, our patient community, and external partners to develop and support new research collaborations. This includes leading the Public and Patient Involvement activity for a 12-month National Institute of Health Research-funded Programme Development Grant, the ICAST Programme: Improving Care for patients with Smell & Taste Disorders, and undertaking planning work for the prospective Programme Grant which is expected to follow this.

This post is funded for 2 days (15 hours) per week for an initial 12-month period, with the potential for the contract to be extended and for it to become a full-time role subject to further funding being secured. 

You will be joining a small, friendly and ambitious team that will support your professional development as part of the charity’s ongoing growth.

If you are passionate about making a difference to an underserved patient community and want to be part of a pioneering and collaborative organisation that values and empowers the people it represents then we would love to hear from you. We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences.

Application instructions: 

Please apply by providing both a CV and a covering letter which clearly states how you meet all the points in the Personal Specification.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the SmellTaste contribution to a 12-month National Institute of Health Research-funded Programme Development Grant, led by Prof Carl Philpott at the University of East Anglia (the ICAST Programme: Improving Care for patients with Smell & Taste Disorders).  
• Develop a Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) strategy for the above project, including evaluation of impact and dissemination
• Manage a PPI panel for the NIHR project, organise PPIE meetings and ensure participants and panel members are remunerated for activity.
• Develop a detailed, costed delivery plan for the national survey element of the planned Programme Grant which is expected to follow on from the Programme Development Grant, including marketing and publicity, recruitment and dissemination.
• Work with the charity’s CEO and honorary Director of Research and Medical Affairs to develop a research strategy for the charity that aligns with the research priorities identified in the James Lind Alliance Priority Setting Partnership for Smell and Taste Disorders.
• Work with the charity’s CEO, honorary Director of Research and Medical Affairs and external researchers to identify opportunities for new collaborative research opportunities.
• Develop funding applications for research projects.
• Oversee all of the charity’s collaborative research activity, including PPIE activity.
• Evaluate and report on the impact of research projects, ensuring inclusivity and ethical standards.

Personal specification

• Degree (or equivalent experience) in biological sciences or a related field
• Experience leading or supporting public and patient involvement and engagement initiatives in research
• Experience leading or supporting involvement in research
• Experience of writing grant applications
• Ability to communicate and interpret complex scientific research clearly
• Experience working with diverse and underrepresented communities
• Confident relationship builder with researchers and other external stakeholders
• Excellent organisational skills, including strong project management skills

Hours: Part-time, 15 hours per week

Salary: £40,000, pro-rata

Holiday allowance: 25 days pro-rata, plus bank holidays

Location: Home working. Some travel will be required to attend in-person meetings and events

Interviews expected to be held during the week commencing 22nd June.