Public health jobs

We are looking for an experienced and connected Policy and Public Affairs Adviser to lead the development of this function within the organisation. Reporting Directly to the CEO you will engage with teams and partners to design both an on-going influencing strategy and the future shape of this work in coming years.

Key Responsibilities:

· Undertake internal opportunities review to identify key work strands.

· Undertake external opportunities review to identify both short term and long-term areas for influence.

· Develop long term policy and influencing strategy in conjunction with the Senior Leadership Team (SLT).

· Review and recommend future staffing structure and reporting lines as part of the above.

· Act as lead for existing activity in this area including attending meetings with MPs, Peers and civil servant, working with internal teams to provide accurate briefing information and supporting other appropriate spokespeople across the organisation.

· Identify and Lead on the formulation of appropriate evidence-based policy positions and responses.

· Work with staff and our growing Public and Patient Network (PPN) to ensure those with lived experience have a meaningful voice in the above activity.

Key requirements:

Required:

• Experience of developing and delivering campaigns that include influencing and engaging with policy makers, MPs, Peers and other relevant stakeholders.
• Strong understanding of the legislative process in England (Scotland and Wales desirable).
• Ability to quickly develop effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Demonstrable ability of analysis of information that can be communicated to a variety of audiences.
• Experience of developing policy positions and briefings, along with responding to consultations.
• Ability to effectively manage competing interests and views to achieve the aims of the organisation.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Depending on location, this role will require regular travel to the Leeds Office and Westminster.

Desirable:

• Experience of working in a charity.

Personal Attributes:

• Strategic thinker
• Passionate about our cause and mission.
• Organised and reliable with a collaborative mindset.
• Open to feedback and committed to continuous improvement.

What We Offer:

• The opportunity to contribute to a respected national charity.
• A supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Professional development and learning opportunities.
• Flexible or hybrid working options (where applicable).
• Generous holiday allowance and staff benefits package.

About us

With a 110-year history, we are proud to be able to say that the WI continues to be the largest and most influential UK-based women’s organisation, with over 170,000 members. Our campaigns push for change on the issues that matter to women and their communities, from equal pay to climate change, mental health and violence against women. The WI has brought about real change, and this record of action shows that we are as relevant today as we were in 1915.

The National Federation of Women’s Institutes (the NFWI) is responsible for running the organisation and provides support and advice to members at both regional and local levels.

About the Campaigns and Public Affairs Manager role

In this varied and exciting position, you will manage high profile WI campaigns and play a key role in achieving change on key issues affecting women and their community.

The Campaigns and Public Affairs Manager provides essential management of the Public Affairs team and its activities- including campaigning, lobbying, research and policy work- whilst working closely with the Director of Campaigns and Membership to maintain a strategic overview of the department’s work.

You will be responsible for devising appropriate lobbying strategies to achieve our key objectives, responding to governmental policy and consultation papers and supporting the NFWI’s media work in relation to all campaigning and Public Affairs activity.

This role also plays a vital part in managing departmental projects, from the development and implementation of campaign project plans, to identifying funding opportunities and administering budgets.  

Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week.

Location: Hybrid working, with at least one day per week at our London office.

About you

Experienced in all aspects of campaigning and lobbying, with a strong understanding of current affairs and issues across the policy spectrum, you will be adept at taking a campaign from start to finish, whilst developing impactful influencing strategies in a political context. You will be a confident line manager, with experience of supporting and overseeing your team’s performance, development and wellbeing.

The ability to represent the NFWI externally- to civil servants, government departments and external organisations- as well as working closely with volunteers and members at a grassroots level is also key.

An understanding of key policy issues relating to areas such as women’s health or the environment would also be desirable, however your passion for helping the WI achieve its mission by making a difference every day will be the key to your success in the role.

Benefits

In return, we will offer you a hybrid working arrangement, which means a minimum of one day a week in your primary office and the rest worked from home, although you can work up to three days in the office if preferred; 28 days’ annual leave, rising to 30 days on completion of 5 years’ service with the flexibility to take your annual leave in hours; membership of our healthcare scheme; enhanced family-friendly policies; a commitment to employee wellbeing; and more.

How to apply

For further information about the Campaigns and Public Affairs Manager role, please download the recruitment pack which includes the job description and person specification.

To apply, please submit your current CV with a covering letter clearly explaining why you would be suitable for the role to the HR department.

Closing date: 13 May 2026.

First and second-round interview dates: w/c 18 May 2026, with the first round conducted virtually and the second in-person at our London office.

No other media or agencies, please.

The WI is proud to be an equal opportunities employer and values diversity. Reg. Charity No. 803793.

Location: Home based within commuting distance of either Edinburgh, Cardiff or Belfast 

Salary: £32,750 per annum
Hours: 35 hours per week 

Closing date: Monday 19 May 2026 at midnight 

Interview date: week commencing 25 May 2026 over video with possible second stage in person week commencing 1 June 2026 

This is a full time fixed-term position for one year (with possible extension subject to funding). 

Who we are looking for  

Breakthrough T1D is the UK’s leading type 1 diabetes charity, dedicated to funding research, advocating for change, and supporting the T1D community. A year into our exciting rebrand from JDRF to Breakthrough T1D, we’re looking for a Senior Policy and Public Affairs Officer – Devolved Nations to help us build on this momentum. 

The role of the Senior Policy and Public Affairs Officer - Devolved Nations is vital to achieving our UK-wide advocacy mission: to reduce health inequalities in type 1 diabetes, to widen access to type 1 diabetes treatments and technologies and to ensure that people with type 1 get access to emerging new treatments and future cures in the devolved nations.  

You will lead on projects with key stakeholders and high-level Parliamentarians, such as our access to treatments and early detection work, as well as people with type 1 diabetes, policy makers and researchers. You will help to deliver Breakthrough T1D’s influencing plans, improving access to and choice of type 1 diabetes treatments and technology in the devolved nations.  

Experience required 

• Experience of working successfully with politicians, their offices, Government departments, and other public affairs audiences to influence policy and to influence public/stakeholder discourse  

• Experience of leading public affairs delivery in one of more of the devolved nations  

• Experience in analysing Government policy in-depth and creating policy briefings   

• Experience of drafting briefings, reports and policy submissions   

• Experience of communicating across a range of parliamentary and professional stakeholders at all levels  

• Demonstrable knowledge, interest and experience of working in a public affairs and policy-based environment  

• Experience of organising stakeholder events  

About Breakthrough T1D 

Breakthrough T1D is the world’s leading charitable research funder into type 1 diabetes, improving lives until we find the cure. We are dedicated to our 400,000 strong type 1 community in the UK and work closely with our international affiliates across the world, including the US, Canada and Australia. 

You will find a vibrant atmosphere and spirited team at Breakthrough T1D, always striving to make a difference to people living with type 1. 

Employee benefits 

As an employer we offer: 

• Hybrid working arrangements 

• Flexible working and will consider compressed hours 

• Generous annual leave entitlement – 25 days per year plus bank holidays for full-time staff with leave increasing after three and five years’ service 

• Health cash plan that allows you to claim for some treatments such as dental, optical and physiotherapy treatment 

• Season ticket and cycle loan 

• Pension scheme 

• Family-friendly policies – maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave at enhanced rates 

• Personalised training to suit your career aspirations and professional development 

Breakthrough T1D is an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applications from all individuals regardless of race, gender, disability, religious belief, sexual orientation or age. 

Caritas Social Action Network

Policy and Public Affairs Officer (maternity leave)

Location: office in London, with mostly working from home, regular travel in England and Wales, and rare travel overseas.

Contract: full-time, to cover a team member’s maternity leave

Salary: £30,00

Closing date: Tuesday 26 May at 12 noon

Interview date: Thursday 11 June in person, in London

CSAN is the official agency of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference tackling the root causes of poverty and injustice affecting people who live in England and Wales. We’re facing a steep rise in poverty and significant pressures on social, economic and church resources. Currently, the Church is called to raise a prophetic voice against poverty and the rhetoric of division and work for the building of a more just society.

Over the last 20 years, CSAN has built up a network of 50 diocesan and direct service charities with a combined annual spend on social mission estimated at £400m, excluding the work of schools and religious congregations. Our members build up local community life in diverse ways, and many of them support individuals in difficulty, including with housing, prison and detention, social isolation, ill-health, violence, disability, employment, care, therapeutic and welfare support.

The key responsibilities of the post are:

1. To scan the social policy environment to capture developments in legislation, consultation papers and Bills relevant to the Caritas network for the purpose of comprehensive tracking and briefing.

2. To deliver an effective programme of Catholic advocacy and political campaigns that contributes to the common good, with particular attention to the priorities of the dignity of workers, child poverty, social care and end of life; supporting and connecting well with the team’s other activities, and where possible with the CSAN membership’s priorities,

3. To draft campaign and advocacy materials for the range of media channels used by CSAN and support the CEO in engaging with the press and approaches from campaigning organisations including contributing to CSAN’s social media networks.

4. To provide admin support and contribute to CSAN’s Alliances as required, especially the Advocacy Alliance and the Criminal Justice Alliance with information and education on policy and legislation.

5. To ensure that our advocacy is consistent with the Bishops’ understanding of the Church’s role in society and supports the priorities of the Bishops’ Conference, especially the Department for Social Justice.

6. To act as a conduit of information and communication between the Bishops’ Conference and the CSAN members, under the guidance of the CEO, assisting CBCEW where possible in gathering information and the lived experience of poverty.

7. To develop and contribute to practice materials for the network, especially in the areas of campaigning, advocacy, social policy and formation for mission.

8. To oversee monitoring of the Catholic press and relevant wider networks for relevant articles, developments and campaigns.

9. To support the general work of CSAN as required by the CEO, including leading in the development and organisation of the charity in specific areas subject to skills and experience.

The work of the small national team requires a high level of integrity and teamwork, respect for and capacity to navigate complex civil and church contexts at pace, and a stable commitment to personal formation and training. Our Policy and Public Affairs Officer (maternity leave) will bring a professional track record of relevant research and analysis, production of compelling communications, and diligent administration. A satisfactory basic DBS check and references are required.

CSAN is a member of Caritas Internationalis, one of the largest humanitarian networks in the world, with national agencies in over 160 countries, and among the most successful examples of organised Catholic social action in modern times.

Are you a strategic, purpose-driven leader? Ready to shape policy, influence public discourse, and make a real impact? If this sounds exciting, then this could be the role and organisation for you! Day One is on an exciting journey of growth and expansion as we increase our impact and reach more people affected by serious and life changing injury. We are looking to recruit an experienced Head of Policy and Public Affairs to join our team who can shape and help lead the charity’s external positioning, policy engagement and thought leadership activity across the UK. You will work closely with the CEO, other Directors and Heads of Service to develop and execute a three-year plan to develop our voice, influence and reach. 

This is an exciting opportunity for someone committed to supporting the charity in its next phase of growth. Day One has always punched above its weight as a start-up charity, and now, into its fifth year of operation as a national charity, our voice is becoming more important than ever. 

Day One’s development has been fast-paced, roles broad, and the culture has fostered autonomy and flexibility in senior roles. As the needs of the organisation evolve, this remains important but it is also now essential that we build a team with the capability and capacity to carry out robust, longer term scoping and planning in order to implement our new strategy and to create further opportunity for influence around the impact, care and support needs of people affected by serious and life-changing injury. 

More About You 

You’ll be an ambitious, dynamic, politically astute changemaker with: 

Senior experience in public affairs, policy, or government relations. A strong record of delivering successful, outcome-driven campaigns. Excellent communication skills with a flair for impactful messaging. A collaborative, tenacious attitude and drive to make a difference. An established network and the credibility to influence. Willingness to travel as part of your role. 

What You Will Bring 

You might come from a charity, public sector or values-led organisation, or from a commercial role where people and purpose have been at the heart of your work. You may already have experience marketing services, campaigns or causes, or be ready for a step up with more ownership and responsibility. What matters most is your ability to work with empathy, bring ideas to life, and help people find, trust and access support when they need it most.

In your first six months, you will develop key relationships, scope the workplan and, in conjunction with colleagues, begin to build the evidence base needed for delivery of the ‘Voice’ element of our new strategy. 

You will use our flagship annual campaign - Major Trauma Awareness week (MTAW) as a platform for expansion of our voice and influence work. You will work closely with the Head of Lived Experienced and Social Research to ensure that we are able to develop a sound evidence base from which to grow our influence and reach. 

Beyond the first 6 months you will: 

• Design and begin to implement an impactful influencing plan, identifying horizon scanning opportunities to influence and raise our profile. 

• Utilise own assets and organisational assets, including the CEO, SLT and Heads of Service, to deliver this element of the new strategy. 

• You will build highly credible and impactful relationships with a variety of stakeholders. This will include policy makers in national and local government officials, politicians, the health and social care sector, clinicians specifically the trauma care and rehabilitation space, as well as other third sector organisations, think tanks and commercial organisations connected to recovery after serious and life-changing injury.

• Play a significant role internally and externally in communicating the organisation’s policy position, raising organisational brand.

• Work closely with others in the SLT and ELT on developing our thought leadership and translating this into published blogs and comment pieces yourself and for others - disseminating our shared ideas, evidence base and compelling stories of impact and recovery.

• Working closely with the Director of Income and Engagement, you will support their team’s expertise and credibility, helping them to generate income though speaking engagements, campaigns and key storytelling pieces. 

How to apply 

Please upload your CV and supporting cover letter to Charity Jobs outlining why you’re interested in the role. Please take your time to explain how your experience is relevant to this post.

For more information, please refer to the attached recruitment pack.

Closing date: 15th May 2026 

Interviews:  

First stage virtual: w/c 25th May 2026 

Second stage in-person (Leeds): w/c 1st June 2026 

About the role

We’re seeking a PPIE Manager to lead and strengthen patient involvement across mitochondrial disease research. As an equal partner in the LifeArc Centre for Rare Mitochondrial Diseases, The Lily Foundation leads the programme’s patient and public involvement strategy.

While the initial priority for this role is delivering the PPIE strategy for the LifeArc Centre, as a permanent member of the team, you’ll be responsible for building a sustainable involvement infrastructure that extends across all Lily Foundation research workstreams.

You’ll become a ‘patient expert’ who can bridge the gap between the patient community and the scientific world. You’ll be proactive in upskilling and empowering both patients and researchers, ensuring that lived experience remains the compass for future research.

Key responsibilities

• Lead LifeArc Centre delivery: Work closely with LifeArc leadership and researchers to embed meaningful patient involvement across research activities and work packages.
• Develop the IMPACT network: Grow and support our national patient involvement network, identifying opportunities for families to contribute to research design and documentation.
• Deliver training and capacity building: Develop and deliver training, guidance and workshops to upskill patients, families and researchers in effective PPIE practices.
• Translate and communicate research: Work with our Marketing Team to provide content for the promotion of research news and medical information through social platforms and web-based materials.
• Facilitate focus groups and webinars: Organise patient focus groups to develop a strong knowledge of community needs and lead our quarterly online ‘Zoom Room’ sessions.
• Evaluate and report impact: Measure and share the ‘real world’ impact of PPIE activity to demonstrate its value to LifeArc partners and funders.
• Shape future strategy: Support the development of the UK Mitochondrial Disease Research Institute, ensuring lived experience remains central to the future direction of mitochondrial research.

Person specification

We’re looking for someone who blends a professional background with a genuine heart for our cause.

Essential knowledge and skills

• Professional background: A background in science, nursing or research, with the proven ability to digest complex medical concepts and ‘translate’ them into accessible, jargon-free content.
• PPIE expertise: A deep understanding of Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement best practices and the different stages of the research cycle.
• Training and facilitation: Confidence in designing and delivering workshops or capacity-building activities for audiences ranging from families to senior researchers.
• Exceptional communication: Confidence in building relationships with families, senior academic leads and industry partners.
• Organisational drive: High levels of organisation and the ability to work independently to manage multiple priorities within a ‘small but mighty’ remote team.

Essential experience

• Direct engagement: Substantial experience working directly with patients, families or the public within a charity, research or healthcare setting.
• Delivering PPIE: A proven track record of delivering involvement activities that have influenced research or service design.
• Impact reporting: Experience in measuring and demonstrating the ‘real world’ value of patient engagement to stakeholders and funders.

We reserve the right to close the application window early and advise candidates to apply in good time to avoid disappointment. We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of mitochondrial disease or other rare conditions.

Closing date: Monday 11th May 2026

Interviews: W/c 18th May 2026

We are looking to recruit Self-Employed Mental Health Advocates to work in the following areas:

Warrington - WA2 8TR

Atherton - M46 9NT

Luton - LU4 0LU

This is a self-employed position and you will be paid a sessional rate. 

Our Service

NYAS provides mental health advocacy to individuals within mental health settings throughout the UK.

Our service provides independent advocacy to people within mental health hospitals and community-based settings. We support individuals to ensure their voice is heard regarding their care and treatment and that they are aware of their rights.

This also includes representing them during various meetings such as ward rounds and at multi-disciplinary team meetings.  This role requires you to produce written reports to ensure that the views of patients are fully represented.

We work with adults and children and young people:

Warrington - WA2 8TR - Adults

Atherton - M46 9NT - Adults

Luton - LU4 0LU – Young People

DO YOU HAVE:

Direct experience of working with children/young people or vulnerable adults in a social care or mental health setting.
Experience and understanding of child protection/vulnerable adult safeguarding procedures
Ability to maintain professionalism at all times
An understanding of the importance of listening to children/young people and vulnerable adults without bias or prejudice.
Ability to communicate in an effective way.
Ability to record concise case notes and produce good quality reports

You will need to evidence your skills using specific examples in your application meeting the criteria in the person specification.

Safeguarding and Training

You will be required to complete annual safeguarding and compliance training including, Personal Safety, Data Protection, Information Security, Safeguarding and Equality and Diversity.

You will be able to subscribe to an e-learning platform provided by NYAS. The platform will provide you with the opportunity to undertake a number of other professional courses that you can complete in your own time to maintain your own CPD.

In accordance with UK immigration law, NYAS is required to ensure that all prospective candidates have the legal right to work in the United Kingdom. Therefore, proof of eligibility to work in the UK will be required as part of the recruitment process.

NYAS operates robust safe procedures to ensure the protection of the children, young people and adults at risk we work with. To comply with NYAS’s Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy candidates will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, references and a Digital Risk Assessment.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early once we receive a high number of applications.

About NYAS

As an established leading rights-based charity, NYAS (National Youth Advocacy Service) is well positioned to ensure that children, young people, and adults across England and Wales are fully respected, represented, and supported in expressing their views and having their rights upheld.

We work with care-experienced children, young people, and adults who are often reliant on statutory services suffering the negative impact of the cuts in public expenditure. Our combination of social care and legal services places us in a unique position to ensure that they receive the services they need and that their voices are heard.

We are an equal opportunities employer, and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment which means NYAS welcomes applications from all individuals regardless of age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic origin, nationality, religion or belief, or any other protected characteristic.

NYAS is proud to share that we are a Disability Confident Employer, and we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for our vacancies.

Work with us to help change lives.

Location

Hybrid (most ASH staff go into our Vauxhall office 1-2 days per week. However, we are open to fully remote working for the right candidate). This is a UK-based role; applicants must have the right to work in the UK for at least two years to be considered. ASH is unable to sponsor working visas.

About ASH

Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) is a leading public health charity working to eliminate the harm caused by tobacco. We work with government, parliamentarians, the NHS, researchers and civil society to deliver policies that reduce smoking and support people to quit, with the ultimate aim of ending smoking in the UK.

A key part of ASH’s work is supporting and convening professional networks that bring together organisations and experts working to reduce smoking harms across different sectors.

Purpose of the Role

The Stakeholder Engagement and Network Co-ordinator will support and strengthen several of ASH’s key professional networks, ensuring they operate effectively and maximise their impact on policy and practice. The post holder will maintain strong engagement with network members, facilitate collaboration across sectors, and ensure insights from networks inform ASH’s policy and communications work.

The role will also lead on the development of a new Lived Experience Network, enabling people with current or past experience of smoking to inform ASH’s policy work.

In addition, the post holder will support organisations to sign up to and engage with the newly launched Pledge for a Smokefree UK, helping to build a broad coalition of support for ending smoking.

Over the coming year it is anticipated that there will be a high volume of government consultations on tobacco as government prepares to implement the powers in the Tobacco and Vapes Act. The input of our professional networks into these consultations will be an additional priority. 

What We Offer

• The opportunity to contribute to major public health progress by helping to end smoking.
• A supportive and collaborative team environment.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.

Person Specification

Essential

• Experience coordinating networks, coalitions, partnerships or stakeholder groups
• Excellent interpersonal skills with any ability to manage challenging relationships, ensure compromise and rally stakeholders around a unified message
• Ability to engage with a wide range of stakeholders across health, policy and voluntary sectors.
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously whilst delivering to deadlines.
• Good attention to detail, in particular in written communications.
• Interest in public health policy and health inequalities.
• Ability to take complex or controversial topics and communicate them in a clear, easy to understand way with clear actions to take.
• Ability to work independently and drive projects from concept to completion.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a small team.

Desirable

• Experience working in public health, health policy or the voluntary sector.
• Experience supporting events, meetings or stakeholder engagement activities.
• Experience involving people with lived experience in policy or advocacy work.
• Understanding of tobacco control policy in the UK.

Application process and interviews

Please submit your CV and cover letter via Charity Jobs by 11:30pm Monday 18th May.

Successful applicants will be asked to complete a timed written task the week commencing 25th May and a final shortlist will be invited to interview at the ASH office in Vauxhall on Tuesday 9th June, with a start date as soon as possible.

We apologise that due to the expected high levels of applications we may not be able to reply to all candidates. If you have not heard from us by 25th May please assume you have not been shortlisted.

If cost is a barrier to attending a London-based interview, please let us know and we can help with booking your travel. Please let us know if you require any additional support or reasonable adjustments for the application or interview. We really want our process to feel accessible.

At ASH we are committed to ensuring our staff are representative of the diverse world around us and therefore we encourage candidates with a range of lived and professional experiences to apply. We particularly welcome applications from people of colour, LGBTQ+ people and disabled people. We will use positive action under the Equality Act 2010 to appoint from these underrepresented groups if two candidates are equally qualified.

About Us 

Yorkshire is one of the regions hardest hit by cancer. Together, we can change this.

Yorkshire Cancer Research is a charity dedicated to funding research so that you and those you love live longer healthier lives, free of cancer. 

Thanks to supporters, the charity funds vital cancer research and pioneers innovative new services for people with cancer. These life-giving medical breakthroughs are helping more people survive cancer – in Yorkshire, and beyond.

As an inclusive employer, our aim is to ensure our workforce reflects the rich diversity of our region. We believe a diverse workforce is vital to us taking action to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer more effectively in Yorkshire. We offer equal opportunities regardless of race, religion or belief, age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, marriage and civil partnerships. 

 
The Benefits 

We offer all employees a wide range of benefits including an enhanced contributory pension scheme, 25 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays (increasing to 30 days after 5 years’ service), flexible working arrangements, private medical insurance, enhanced maternity leave, career progression, learning and development, wellbeing initiatives, offices within walking distance of Hornbeam Park train station, free onsite parking and a whole lot more. 

We’ve got a strong set of values that inform everything we do and we’re looking for people who are aligned with these. As our Policy and Public Affairs Manager, you will put people in Yorkshire at the heart of everything you do, unite with colleagues and other organisations in this cause, and dare to think big and bold to make positive solutions happen. 

 
The Role 

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Policy and Public Affairs Manager to join our Research, Policy and Impact team. 

Supporting the Head of Cancer Insight, you will deliver, and keep under review the policy and public affairs strategy, including influencing at a local, regional, and national level, with the aim of helping the charity achieve its strategy and bringing benefit to the people of Yorkshire. You will have responsibility for the development of evidence-based policy reports and recommendations that can be used to influence a variety of audiences and project manage the development, delivery and evaluation of public affairs campaigns and events. As Policy and Public Affairs Manager, you will also act as a source of expertise across the organisation and externally on key policy areas and the wider policy environment.

Specifically, you will: 

Influencing 

• Support the further development, refinement and delivery of the charity’s policy and public affairsstrategy and impact evaluation process, to support the wider delivert of the charity’s strategic aims. 

• Oversee the development of insightful written materials and reports to aid influencing. 

• Lead the charity’s response to regional and national consultations relevant to cancer in Yorkshire, making a robust and evidence-based case for the charity’s position.

• Oversee the continued growth of the charity’s political monitoring work and ensure the effective pursuit of every opportunity offered. 

• Engage with regional and national decision makers to influence policy-making for the benefit of people in Yorkshire and beyond. 

• Build and strengthen relationships with key stakeholders across Yorkshire and beyond (such as DHSC, NHSE, Integrated Care Boards, Cancer Alliances, national policy groups, and other charities, to influence change based on policy recommendations.

• Evaluate the impact of policy and public affairs activity, with delivery of clear examples of external influencing.

Policy development 

• Ensure the continued development of the policy production and dissemination process, including the policy development pathway, internal/external dissemination and impact evaluation. 

• Lead the research, production and dissemination of high quality, evidence-based cancer-related policies and the strategic development of key policy recommendations. 

• Oversee regular updates of existing policies and position statements, ensuring they are in line with the latest evidence. 

• Ensure external insight is built into policies and policy development, such as gaining views from the Patient and Public Involvement Community, the inclusion of external patient and public contributors and endorsements from clinical and academic experts. 

• Oversee work with relevant internal teams to create key messages for a range of internal and external stakeholders, ensuring these are in line with the latest evidence and are used correctly, and provide expert commentary on media stories. 

• Act as a source of expertise on the charity’s cancer-related policies and position statements, both internally and externally. Undertake media interviews as required to communicate key messages with the public.

Campaigns and Events 

• Project manage the development, delivery and evaluation of public affairs campaigns, in collaboration with the Brand and Relationships team where relevant, manage relationships with third parties to support campaign delivery where required. 

• Lead the outreach and delivery of influencing events, including visits to charity-funded projects and party conference activity. 

• Further develop and deliver a strategy for growing and maintaining a handraiser supporter base, to enhance campaigns activity. 

 
About You 

To be considered for this role, you will need: 

• To have a degree, preferably in a relevant subject area, for example public policy, public health, scientific, medical etc. 

• To have significantl experience of writing influencing materials such as briefings, letters, blogs, campaign materials.

• To have substantial experience supporting the implementation of high impact public affairs strategies that are designed to influence.

• To have experience of evaluating campaigns and assessing the impact of policy and public affairs activities. 

• To have excellent public affairs experience including understanding of local, regional and national government, the current health policy landscape as well as knowledge of UK parliamentary processes along with a proven track-record of engaging politically to make change happen.

• To have substantial experience of developing evidence-based policies for a health focused organisation.

• To have substantial experience of communicating health policy positions to a variety of audiences including for influencing purposes.

• To have a good understanding of the health care system in England. 

• To be a strategic thinker with strong analytical, judgement and decision-making skills.

• To be able to sift out the essential elements from a mass of complex information, integrate and synthesise ideas, and present information to others in an accessible way.

• To have a pro-active and creative approach to policy work with an ability to identify and use external opportunities and a desire to succeed.

• To have excellent verbal, written communication and presentation skills with the ability to interpret complex information and communicate this to a range of audiences so it is clear and accessible.

• To have excellent organisational and time management skills with the ability to prioritise work, handle conflicting demands and meet tight deadlines with exceptional levels of accuracy maintained.

• To have strong management and leadership skills, with the ability to coach team members to encourage continued development and learning. 

• To have strong networking, influencing and relationship management skills, with the ability to inspire and influence others, as well as the confidence and personal authority to work with external organisations. 

Application 

Before applying, please visit our Careers Page to view the full role profile and find out more about working for Yorkshire Cancer Research.

To apply please submit a CV and cover letter outlining your suitability for the role to Claire Wooldridge, Head of People, before 14 May 2026. Please read our privacy notice before applying. 

Yorkshire Cancer Research is a responsible and flexible employer.We welcome any discussion for flexible working at the interview/offer stage where we will consider an individual’s circumstances against the needs of the charity. 

We positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates from all backgrounds. If we can make any reasonable adjustments to support your application please contact us. 

This is an exciting opportunity to work on the frontline of policy advocacy and development in child health. As Head of Policy and Research you'll be responsible for overseeing the development of our policy positions and all related outputs, as well as the research that underpins our campaigns and advocacy, across England, Scotland and abroad. You will be an integral thought partner to the Director of Strategy & Delivery and wider leadership team on the development of pioneering research concepts that will drive the child health agenda forward. You will be our internal technical expert on food policy, ensuring all of our work is evidence-based and impactful, as well as being our external representative, liaising with leading policy and research experts across academia, civil society, and government agencies. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

Research

• Work with the Director of Strategy & Delivery and Research Manager to plan research projects and support their delivery, ensuring they support policy calls and reflect young peoples’ experiences.

• Lead the translation of  Bite Back’s research into high quality outputs including reports, briefings and submissions.

• Work with campaigns, communications and content teams to turn research findings into high impact creative communications for a range of audiences.

• Serve as a primary spokesperson for our research including in media placements, speaking slots and government evidence sessions. 

Policy development

• Lead on the development of Bite Back’s policy positions in key and emerging areas, ensuring young peoples’ views and experiences are fed in at every stage.

• Lead the development of all policy outputs including submissions, consultation responses and briefings, ensuring they are evidence-based and reflect young peoples’ voices. 

• Lead the technical policy liaison with stakeholders and experts in the field to gather evidence and critically assess the Bite Back’s positions. 

Evidence

• Keep abreast of new evidence on key areas relating to nutrition, climate and health and consider the implications for Bite Back’s policy and relevant activity.

• Collaborate internally to provide knowledge and advice on policy and evidence issues with colleagues and the youth board.

• Review and sign off key outputs to ensure they reflect the latest evidence and data.

Stakeholder engagement

• Build and maintain relationships with a range of external stakeholders to support Bite Back’s influencing agenda, including with senior government policymakers, academia, WHO and other charities in England, Scotland, and abroad.

• Represent Bite Back on a range of alliances, coalitions and partnerships.

• Deputise for the Director of Strategy & Delivery when needed.

Leadership

• Line management of Research Manager and Impact & Evaluation manager, with a dotted line to the Policy & Engagement Executive and Senior Programmes & Policy Manager for Scotland.

• Operate as a member of the extended leadership team, collaborating with other Heads and the Directors to ensure research and policy considerations are embedded seamlessly into campaigns, communications and programmes.

• Lead the policy and research strategy development for Bite Back in new geographies, providing visionary technical leadership in how we expand to new countries across the UK and abroad.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

We will be looking for applications that demonstrate experience in at least some of these areas, and evidence of capacity to build skills in others. Please don’t be put off applying for one of our jobs because you can’t demonstrate every skill. If you're passionate and excited about working for us, and possess the main skills and experience we are looking for, go ahead and apply. You could be just what we are looking for!

Required: 

• Significant experience  of managing food policy work, which has informed and influenced national and local food policy in England. 

• In depth knowledge of the breadth of the food, nutrition and obesity public health landscape and the key challenges faced in the policy environment.

• Deep technical expertise in food policy research, development, and communication - with a strong focus on commercial determinants of health.

• Strong analytical skills, including a good understanding of quantitative and qualitative research methods, including creative implementation research techniques. and experience with commissioning external research.

• Ability to synthesise and utilise evidence to support policy development and influencing. 

• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, including ability to communicate complex issues.

• Calmness under pressure, with ability to prioritise multiple projects to agreed objectives and deadlines. 

• Line management experience.

• A passion for our mission and a commitment to our values: Fresh, Resilient, Respectful, Energetic, Real.

Desired: 

• Strong policy and research networks in the UK across academic, civil society, and government agencies. A trusted technical voice.

• Post graduate experience in public health or nutrition and/or evidence of continuing professional development of relevant knowledge and skills in the field. 

• Experience in working with young people.

• Experience with designing creative, outside the box research with fresh ways of influencing food policy change.

• Understanding and some experiencing working on food policy across devolved nations (Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland), and within other global contexts.

A core part of YoungMinds’ work is to ensure that young people have the power to influence government policy.

Your role will involve supporting YoungMinds’ public affairs work by promoting the charity’s policy priorities to parliamentarians, officials and other decision-makers.

This will involve writing briefings and developing relationships through meetings and ongoing engagement. You will also work with the youth engagement team to facilitate young people’s involvement in parliamentary meetings and other forums.

Your role will also involve developing policy positions in response to the issues affecting young people’s mental health, based on external evidence as well as YoungMinds’ own research and consultation with young people.

You will provide briefings to internal colleagues, including the senior leadership team, to ensure they are kept up-to-date on key policy issues and trends.

You will also work closely with media and campaign colleagues, to ensure that our messaging on policy issues is clear, accurate, and effective.

Main Role & Responsibilities

The Director of Income Generation will lead the charity’s fundraising and income generation strategy with a particular focus on securing, managing, and growing funding linked to gambling, gaming and wider digital harm prevention, including funding overseen or commissioned via the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID).

This is a senior leadership role which sits on Ygam’s Senior Leadership Team (SLT) with responsibility for developing a diversified, sustainable income portfolio that enables the charity to deliver high-quality, UK-wide evidence-informed prevention activity aligned with national public health priorities.

The successful candidate will lead and empower a high-performing fundraising team, foster innovation, and build strong relationships with donors, funders, partners, and stakeholders across the UK. You will provide strategic direction and inspirational leadership across all income-generating activities, ensuring long-term financial resilience while upholding the charity’s values, reputation, and commitment to excellent supporter experience.

Working closely with the Chief Executive, Trustee Board, and Senior Leadership Team, you will shape organisational strategy, influence decision-making, and act as an external ambassador for the charity.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for a strategic, values-driven fundraising leader with a strong track record of delivering income growth across multiple fundraising and business development streams.

You will bring credibility in working with or alongside public bodies such as OHID, or similar national commissioners and/or major funders, and demonstrate a clear grasp of the accountability, evaluation, and assurance requirements associated with levy-funded or statutory funding.

You will be an inspiring people manager, a confident communicator, and a credible senior leader who enjoys building relationships and making things happen at pace

The successful candidate will possess both strategic insight and hands-on experience, be networked across the charitable funding sector, combining commercial thinking with a deep understanding of the UK charity and fundraising landscape.

You will be a confident senior leader who combines strategic vision with operational rigour, has excellent stakeholder management skills. A commitment to evidence, impact, evaluation and collaboration will be central to your approach.

Above all, you will be motivated by our cause and committed to ethical, inclusive, and supporter-centred fundraising and wider income generation.

About the Institute of Alcohol Studies (IAS)

The Institute of Alcohol Studies (IAS) is an independent charity dedicated to reducing alcohol-related harm in the UK. We work to advance the use of the best available evidence in public policy, bridging the gap between research and decision-making on alcohol.

Alcohol harm is one of the most significant and preventable public health challenges facing the UK today. IAS works with parliamentarians, civil society organisations, researchers and the media to promote effective, evidence-based alcohol policy that improves health, reduces inequalities and supports communities.

Role summary

We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated Policy and Communications Support Officer to join our small but mighty team for a full-time, 12-month fixed-term contract.

This role offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience at the intersection of public health policy, communications and advocacy, working on one of the UK’s key social issues. The post holder will support IAS’s policy and communications work, helping us to progress our long-term vision for tackling alcohol harm.

The post-holder will report to the Head of External Affairs and will be mentored by the Assistant Manager, Policy and Communications, working closely with colleagues across the IAS team.

Contract details

• Contract: 12-month fixed-term contract, full-time (35 hours per week)
• Salary: £30,000
• Location: Hybrid working, split between the IAS office near London Bridge and home working
• Benefits:
  • 14.5% employer contribution pension scheme
  • 28 days’ annual leave (plus public holidays)
  • Life insurance and extended sick pay
  • Access to modern, charity co-working space
  • Opportunities for training and development

Key responsibilities

The Policy and Communications Support Officer will support a wide range of policy, parliamentary and communications activities, including:

• Policy and parliamentary support
  • Assisting with the drafting of clear, concise policy briefings and background notes
  • Updating and maintaining parliamentary monitoring databases to record IAS engagement with MPs and Peers
  • Supporting parliamentary and stakeholder engagement work as required
• Events and engagement
  • Supporting the organisation of IAS events, both in-person and virtual
  • Assisting with logistics such as booking rooms, managing attendee lists, preparing materials, and post-event follow-up
• Communications and media
  • Assisting with the development and production of IAS’s monthly newsletter and podcast, Alcohol Alert
  • Supporting the creation and scheduling of social media content and engaging with followers across platforms
  • Collating and circulating daily alcohol-related news, policy and research updates for key partners
• General support
  • Providing administrative and project support for the IAS team as needed
  • Working collaboratively with colleagues to support IAS’s wider aims and activities

About you

We are looking for an enthusiastic team player who is excited to work in a small organisation where everyone contributes and ideas are valued. You will be curious, motivated and committed to working on one of the most important public health and social justice issues facing the UK today.

Experience and skills we are looking for

• Undergraduate degree, equivalent professional qualification or experience in campaigning, political research or a related field
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to a variety of audiences
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office
• Ability to work independently and manage time while working unsupervised at home
• Good working knowledge of social media platforms
• An interest in politics, parliamentary processes and/or public health

• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
• A proactive, enthusiastic and collaborative approach to work

Equality and diversity

IAS is committed to being an inclusive and diverse organisation. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and particularly encourage applications from groups underrepresented in the public health and policy sector.

Interview process

First interviews for this role will be held online on 11 and 12 June, with a second in-person interview for successful candidates to take place at our offices on 16 June. Please confirm in your cover letter you can be available on these dates.

We hope to find someone who can join our team late July/early August.

About the Role

Location: Cornwall (Agile / Field‑based)
Hours: 35 hours per week
Salary: £24,544.91
Contract: Permanent
DBS: Enhanced with Adults

Who We Are

At Rethink Mental Illness, we believe recovery is possible. We exist to improve the quality of life for people severely affected by mental illness by providing person‑centred, strengths‑based support that helps people live fulfilling, connected lives.

We work closely with individuals, families, and partner organisations to support recovery, independence, and wellbeing within local communities.

About the Role

We’re looking for a Lifestyle Support Worker to join our Cornwall Community team and support people with long‑term mental health challenges to live healthier, happier, and more connected lives.

In this role, you’ll work alongside other Lifestyle Support Workers, therapists, and multi‑disciplinary teams to engage people in meaningful activities that promote wellbeing, confidence, and independence. This could include:

• Supporting individuals one‑to‑one to build confidence accessing community spaces such as gyms, groups, or public venues
• Facilitating group activities such as healthy eating, wellbeing, or lifestyle sessions including activities in the community.
• Encouraging engagement in volunteering, recovery activities, and local community opportunities
• Supporting people to develop routines, life skills, and social connections

This is a field‑based role across Cornwall, with some administrative work based in NHS buildings and opportunities for agile working.

What You’ll Bring

We’re looking for someone who:

• Has experience supporting people with mental health needs in a community or support setting
• Is passionate about recovery, empowerment, and person‑centred support
• Can build positive, respectful, and professional relationships with service users
• Has experience in facilitating group work in the community.
• Is confident working both independently and as part of a multi‑disciplinary team
• Has strong communication, organisational, and basic IT skills
• Holds a full driving licence with access to a vehicle (essential for covering Cornwall)
• Believes in equality, inclusion, and strengths‑based approaches

Formal clinical qualifications are not essential — we value empathy, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to supporting others.

What We Offer

At Rethink Mental Illness, we’re proud to support our staff. You’ll receive:

• A comprehensive induction programme
• Regular supervision and reflective practice
• Ongoing training and development opportunities
• The opportunity to contribute to service development
• A supportive, values‑driven culture where your voice matters

Ready to Apply?

If you believe in recovery, want to make a real difference, and are passionate about supporting people to live well in their communities, we’d love to hear from you.

Rethink Mental Illness welcomes applications from all backgrounds and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace.

Why Work With Rethink Mental Illness?

At Rethink Mental Illness, we believe that when you feel supported, you can make the biggest difference. That’s why we offer a wide range of benefits:

• Inclusive Culture: Staff networks that champion diversity and inclusion
• Wellbeing Support: Access to our Wellbeing Hub, Employee Assistance Programme, and Unmind mental health app
• Recognition & Rewards: Discounts, cashback offers, and recognition through our PULSE platform
• Flexible Working & Generous Leave: 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays and your birthday off, with options to buy or sell leave
• Learning & Development: Structured onboarding and ongoing training
• Financial & Family Support: Pension scheme, enhanced family leave, and travel benefits
• Referral Bonus: Earn up to £300 for introducing someone to our team

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Diversity is important to us, and we value difference, inclusiveness, and belonging. By welcoming a wide range of perspectives and experiences, we strengthen our ability to support the diverse communities we serve.

We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and identities and are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and a signatory to the Race at Work Charter.

Becoming a Truly Anti‑Racist Organisation

We have an ambition to become a truly anti‑racist employer, campaigning organisation, and service provider. Through our Anti‑Racist Statement and Race Equality Action Plan, we are committed to accountability, learning, and meaningful progress.