We have an exciting opportunity within our Communications Team on a part time basis for a Media and Communications Officer. This post is for a one-year fixed term contract.
The Down’s Syndrome Association is the only organisation in England, Wales and Northern Ireland focusing solely on all aspects of living successfully with Down’s syndrome. The Down’s Syndrome Association aims to create the conditions that all people with Down’s syndrome need to live full and rewarding lives.
The successful candidate will cover the whole spectrum of duties in relation to media and communication areas and needs to be able to think strategically and work operationally. You will lead the development of our media strategy, build and maintain a strong media contracts database and nurture relations both online and across other offline platforms. Your work will amplify the voices of people who have Down’s syndrome and help shape public understanding through inclusive and impactful storytelling.
We are looking for candidates with at least three years proven experience in either media relations, journalism or communications. An understanding of the key ingredients of success in developing relationships with local and national media engagement, as well as managing performance in line with budgets are also essential.
A valid UK driver’s licence is essential, as well as a willingness to be flexible about hours and location of work as there may be some occasional travel in UK with overnight stays as required. The post-holder will also be DBS checked.
The successful candidate will report directly to the Head of Policy and Strategic Communication. (The full-time equivalent salary for this role is £30,000 pa)
Informal inquiries are welcome and should be made to the Head of Policy and Strategic Communication, Sharon Smith at the Down's Syndrome Association or email her directly.
To download the full job description, visit the Down’or ss Syndrome Association website or see attached.
Please apply via Charity Jobs directly or submit a CV and covering letter to Sharon Smith. If you need any help with this or have any questions, please contact Sharon directly.
Closing date: Friday, 8th August 2025
Interview date: w/c Monday, 18th August 2025
Candidates can apply either via Charity Job or directly to Sharon Smith at the Down's Syndrome Association
Registered Charity 
21 - 50
Thank you!
Are you passionate about inspiring a love of reading in children?
The Dollywood Foundation UK runs Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in the UK, the worlds largest book gifting programme. Over the last 30 years the Imagination Library has delivered nearly 300 million books to children globally. In the UK we support over 60k children a month, delivering them a free book sent to their house every month.
The primary purpose of this new role is to increase registrations for the Imagination Library initially across London. This role will support our Local Programme Partners to reach families with whom they are not currently engaging.
Background
We have a steadfast belief that inspiring a love of reading in children can bring joy, love, and measurable individual, family and societal benefits. We are driven by Dolly Parton’s mantra that you “can’t put enough books into the hands of enough children”.
It is an exciting time for the Dollywood Foundation. We have recently received a new investment to allow us to scale our Imagination Library programme across London. As families across the capital become eligible for free books, we need to make every effort to ensure families know about the programme and sign up.
This role is integral to that plan, working with local authority and community organisations to spread the word about the programme. The role holder will need to be passionate about books and supporting children’s development. They will hold brilliant relationship building skills to engage local communities and overcome any barriers to families enrolling.
We are a remote team with no fixed office. While this role will be based from home, regular travel across London will be required. The role holder will need to be based in London or surrounding areas to allow for the frequent travel.
This is an exciting new role, joining a passionate and growing UK team.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.