Social development research officer jobs

An opportunity to take ownership of our learning offer, develop innovative resources and work with partners across the justice system.

MAIN AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY 

• Identifying training, learning and development opportunities or needs 

• Developing learning resources, including e-learning and guidance documents

• Managing MA learn, the MA's learning management system (LMS) 

• Overseeing the MA's community outreach programme (Magistrates in the Community) 

• Coordinating MA input into wider magistrate training, both nationally and through representation on local training committees. 

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES 

Policy committees 

• Support the MA’s training, learning and development committee by organising regular meetings, sharing minutes and actions. 

• Propose priorities and manage programmes of work for the committee 

• Provide high-quality information to ensure that committee members and other interested parties are up to date with relevant information 

• Ensure agreed actions and decisions of the policy committees are implemented 

• Build and maintain excellent relationships with committee members 

• Provide support to committee members to enable them to effectively contribute to the work of the MA 

• Assist in the training and development of committee members 

• Agree and implement committee working practices. 

• Contribute to supporting the MA's other policy committees 

Volunteer support 

• Support  representatives in post 

• Work with magistrates to develop and coordinate learning materials 

Learning 

• Develop and upload learning resources to our learning platform. 

• Be the first point of contact for member queries about our learning platform and other training related matters 

• With the membership team, liaise with external stakeholders to plan and deliver the MA's webinar series

• Edit webinar footage and create transcripts to upload to MA learn

• Monitor learner behaviour on the MA learn and use this to inform learning development plans. 

Policy and research 

• Provide input to proposed policy and research work 

• Work with policy colleagues to translate research and policy into learning materials. 

Communications 

• Work closely with the communications team to support the delivery of the MA’s learning communications, both for members and externally 

• Ensure the accuracy of training information contained in MA communications outputs 

• Contribute to our Magistrate magazine, newsletters, website content, social media and press releases. 

Membership 

• Support the work of the MA’s membership team to recruit and retain members

• Assist in responding to members’ queries and provide up to date information about training and learning issues. 

Other duties 

• Contribute to team meetings, organisational strategy and priorities 

• Be proactive in keeping up to date with developments affecting the role 

• Contribute to other organisational tasks, such as support for our webinars and events on occasion. 

GENERAL 

This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the job and the general nature and level of work performed by employees in this role. It is not exhaustive, and staff may be required to undertake other reasonable duties commensurate with the role.

PERSON SPECIFICATION 

ESSENTIAL 

• Experience of using a learning management system (LMS) 

• Experience of using, or aptitude to learn, e-learning software, such as Articulate 360 

• Ability to design and develop a variety of online learning resources 

• Experience of project management 

• Ability to organise and prioritise your own workload and a strong attention to detail 

• Ability to assimilate and understand complex information and explain complex issues clearly 

• Ability to produce clear, concise proposals, papers and other written communications

• Ability to communicate effectively, diplomatically and persuasively with a wide range of people 

• Ability to establish personal credibility with a range of stakeholders 

• Ability to work effectively under pressure 

• A creative and practical approach to problem solving and the ability to provide sound reasons to support proposed solutions 

• Excellent networking skills. 

DESIRABLE 

• Training qualification (Level 3 or above and/or equivalent professional training experience) 

• Experience of working with/managing a committee 

• Knowledge of the workings of magistrates' courts 

• Experience of working in a membership organisation 

• Experience of supporting volunteers remotely. 

The School for Social Entrepreneurs backs people with purpose — entrepreneurs building organisations that change their communities. We're looking for a National Partnerships Lead to work directly with our CEO, driving high-priority national funding partnerships, diversifying our income, and building the relationships that fund our impact. 

You'll identify major funding opportunities, negotiate with trusts, corporates and government partners, and lead complex proposals from first conversation through to a signed agreement — including the budgets, risk assessments and value propositions behind them. You'll also act as a sounding board for the CEO, pressure-testing ideas and sharpening how we tell our story to funders. 

We're looking for sustained experience supporting a CEO or senior leader, a track record of leading multi-million pound funding initiatives end-to-end, and the versatile writing skills to move between board papers and detailed funder tenders without losing accuracy under pressure. Sharp budgeting and numeracy matter for this role, alongside real comfort building trust with senior external stakeholders. 

This position is for someone who thrives on ambiguity, enjoys solving complex problems, and wants their work to directly fund entrepreneurs changing their communities. 

At Bipolar UK, we believe that no one should face bipolar alone. Every day, we work to ensure that people affected by bipolar can access the understanding, support and information they need to live well. As the UK's only national charity dedicated to bipolar, we reach around 10,000 people each month through our peer support services, online community, information resources, research partnerships and campaigns to improve diagnosis and access to care. 

We're entering an exciting period of growth and are looking for a passionate Senior Partnership Officer to help us build the partnerships and funding needed to expand our impact. Could you help us create a future where everyone affected by bipolar has access to timely support and specialist services? 

As Senior Partnership Officer, you'll play a pivotal role in developing and managing high-value relationships with corporate partners, major donors and strategic supporters. You'll identify and secure new partnership opportunities, create compelling funding propositions and steward supporters to deepen their engagement with Bipolar UK. Your work will directly help us reach more people affected by bipolar and deliver life-changing support across the UK. 

Key Details

Location: Flexible, home-based with occasional travel to events and team meetings. 

Hours: 35 hours per week. 

Salary: £35,000 depending on experience. 

Annual Leave: 25 days plus Bank Holidays (with an additional day accrued per each year of service)

Reporting to: Strategic Partnerships Manager. 

What You'll Be Working On

• Building and securing new corporate fundraising and strategic partnership opportunities. 
• Developing tailored partnership proposals and delivering engaging pitches to prospective supporters. 
• Managing and growing relationships with corporate partners, major donors and strategic allies. 
• Working with colleagues across services, fundraising and communications to develop innovative partnership opportunities. 
• Providing excellent stewardship through meetings, events, impact reporting and regular supporter engagement.
• Recording and tracking partnership activity through Salesforce and supporting effective monitoring and evaluation.

This Job Is For You If...

• You're a confident relationship builder who enjoys connecting with supporters and stakeholders. 
• You have experience securing income through partnerships, fundraising or business development. 
• You can create compelling written proposals and communicate persuasively with a range of audiences. 
• You're highly organised and able to manage multiple opportunities and projects simultaneously. 
• You're motivated by making a meaningful difference to the lives of people affected by bipolar. 

At Bipolar UK, we value diversity and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences. If you're excited about the role but don't meet every requirement, we'd still love to hear from you. Together, we can ensure that more people affected by bipolar receive the support they need.

The National Society for Education (NSE) is both an NCI and a Royal-charter charity. It's aims are to support Church schools and the wider education sector by developing leaders, shaping policy and growing faith.

The NSE leads the Church of England's national work in education in partnership with 41 Diocesan Boards of Education and approximately 4,700 Church of England schools. We also support the national education work of the Church in Wales, which includes around 150 schools. Our presence extends to work with community schools and academy trusts, as well as higher and further education through numerous chaplaincies, providing spiritual support and guidance to children and young people, and to adults.

We are a dynamic team, working remotely from our homes around the country. We gather regularly online, and also have in-person team days through the year.

About Picker

Picker is an Oxford-based charity with an international reputation for measuring and improving patient, service user and staff experience. Our mission is to make person-centred health and social care a reality for everyone. We work with NHS organisations, government bodies, charities and healthcare providers in the UK and internationally.

About the role

The Research Manager is responsible for the programme management of the NHS Staff Survey Programme, providing leadership across all aspects of programme development, delivery and continuous improvement. The post holder is accountable for maintaining high standards of quality and customer service, ensuring the needs of NHS England and programme stakeholders are met.

This is an exciting opportunity to work at the centre of a high-profile national programme and help shape the future direction of staff experience measurement across the NHS.

Skills and experience

We are looking for someone with:

• Significant experience of applied quantitative research, including survey design, research methods, data analysis and reporting.
• Experience of managing complex research or survey programmes involving multiple stakeholders, competing priorities and tight deadlines.
• Strong leadership and project management skills, including planning resources, monitoring progress and driving successful delivery.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, with experience of working effectively with clients, partners and external stakeholders.
• Strong analytical and numerical skills, with the ability to interpret and communicate findings clearly to a range of audiences.
• A degree (or equivalent professional experience) in a relevant discipline.

Experience of healthcare, social care or charity-sector research, alongside knowledge of software such as SPSS, Qualtrics or ClickUp, would be advantageous.

If you're passionate about using research to improve health and care services and are looking for an opportunity to lead high-profile national survey programmes, we'd love to hear from you.

Passionate about using research to make a real difference? Salford CVS is looking for a Research and Insight Worker to help deliver impactful research projects that amplify the voices of local communities and the voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector across Salford and Greater Manchester.

You'll gather and analyse data, work directly with community groups and VCSE organisations, and turn insight into high-quality reports that influence decision-making and drive positive change. If you're an organised, confident communicator who enjoys working with people and is motivated by social impact, we'd love to hear from you. 

Main purposes of the post

To deliver Salford CVS’s research and insight work, which includes the collection and analysis of data and producing timely written reports of the findings. This exciting Research and Insight role involves a combination of VCSE engagement and community insight work across Salford and in Greater Manchester.

Hours: Part-time, 22.5 hours per week.

Days: To be confirmed (core hours are worked between 8am – 6pm, Monday to Friday).

Contract: 1-year fixed-term contract, subject to the successful completion of a 3-month probationary period.

Place of work: In person at Salford CVS’ offices, The Old Town Hall, 5 Irwell Place, Eccles, Salford, M30 0FN.

The Benefits of Working for Salford CVS:

• 28 days’ holiday - rising to 30 days (after five years), plus Bank Holidays (pro rata for part-time)
• Enhanced company sick and maternity pay, subject to terms and conditions of service
• Pension scheme - with 7% employer contribution (and 1% mandatory employee contribution)
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Membership of the Hospital Saturday Fund via an employer subsidised scheme (optional and non-contractual)
• RHS family membership (optional and non-contractual)
• Development opportunities - we support and encourage our staff to progress in their careers (including formal training)
• A supportive working culture - we respect and support one another to do the best we can

We are an accredited Living Wage Employer, Living Hours Employer and Living Wage Funder, ensuring not just our staff are paid the ‘real’ Living Wage but also that any projects we fund can do the same.

For further information and to apply, please visit our website via the ‘apply’ button.

Closing date: Noon on Wednesday, 26th August 2026.

Interviews: Tuesday, 8th September 2026 - in person at Salford CVS’ offices.

Policy Officer

Salary: £43,099 plus excellent benefits

Contract type: Permanent, full time

Hours per week: 37.5 hours per week. All staff are required to work in person for a minimum of two days per week, in line with our hybrid working policy. The post-holder may be required to undertake some work outside normal working hours.

About the Health Foundation

Health is our most precious asset. Good health enables us to live happy, fulfilling lives, fuels our prosperity and helps build a stronger society. Yet good health remains out of reach for too many people in the UK, and health and care services are struggling to provide access to timely, high-quality care.

The Health Foundation is an independent charitable organisation with a mission to build a healthier UK. We work to achieve this by generating high quality research and analysis; developing practical solutions to the biggest problems in health and health services; engaging, convening and building coalitions to build understanding, inform debate and drive action; and developing the long-term capability needed to transform health and care.

Our values

We expect everyone who works with us to be committed to our values and to share our commitment to becoming a more diverse and inclusive organisation. Our values are impact, evidence, integrity, and collaboration. You can read more about them in our five-year strategy. We also expect everyone to share our commitment to becoming a more diverse and inclusive organisation and to help deliver our EDI strategy.

About the role

There are 2 Policy Officer roles in the Health and Care Policy team available. The team focuses on shaping the future of the health and social care system in the UK to ensure the best care for all, by supporting more evidence-informed policy and decision-making. One officer will work across a range of thematic areas, and one will focus initially on technology and AI, with the opportunity to work across other areas further down the line. The Policy Officer will work on a mix of short and longer-term projects, including supporting in-house policy analysis and research, as well as helping to scope and develop ideas for externally commissioned research. This will involve a range of different approaches, including synthesising qualitative and quantitative research evidence; analysing policy documents and grey literature; qualitative methods such as key informant interviews and thematic analysis; and other approaches involved in policy-focused research. The Policy Officer will help write and contribute to external publications, including briefings, blogs, and longer Health Foundation reports. They will also support the team to bring together policymakers and others in events, meetings, workshops, and other activities to inform and influence thinking and decisions. Key responsibilities include:

• Assisting with a range of high-profile policy projects, including project planning and development, and helping with analysis, writing and publication.
• Contributing to literature reviews and rapid scans of data and evidence; producing summaries of the main findings and implications for policy.
• Supporting policy research, working with internal and external partners and assisting with written outputs.
• Assisting with communicating the findings of our work to a range of audiences, including policymakers, academics and the media.
• Building and maintaining relationships with external stakeholders relevant to our policy portfolio.
• Supporting the design and delivery of workshops or other events with policymakers and other relevant stakeholders – for example, helping to design a session to communicate and discuss the findings from a research report.

How to apply

Our priority is to find the right individual for each opportunity. We are dedicated to building an inclusive workplace that values diversity and invite you to find out more.

You can find the job description for this role here. If you would like to apply, please submit your CV, and a supporting statement that answers the following application questions:

• We are hiring for two Policy Officer roles, one initially focussing on technology and AI and the other working in a more generalist role across projects on the NHS and social care in the Health and Care Policy team. Do you have a preference or would you like to be considered for both roles?
• Why are you well suited to this role and why do you want to work at the Health Foundation? (Max 400 words)
• What skills and experience do you have in policy research? As part of your answer, please describe an example of a piece of research or analysis you have led or contributed to. (Max 400 words)
• Describe your experience of communicating the findings of a piece of work to an external audience. How did you approach it and what did you learn? (Max 400 words)

Our commitment to equality, inclusion and diversity

We are committed to an inclusive hiring process, where every candidate has the chance to showcase their unique skills and experience in an accessible and supported environment, to ensure that we can make the best appointment for each opportunity on merit. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and encourage those from underrepresented groups in this field to apply to us. We have identified three key areas to improving diversity. Our aim to achieve a more balanced representation across our organisation, with a particular focus on increasing the number of women in leadership, enhancing the representation of people from Black and ethnic minority backgrounds and welcoming more people with disabilities. As part of this commitment, we strongly encourage applications from these groups.

Apply to join our team and let's work towards building a more diverse and inclusive workplace together. If you require any support through this process, please contact us. Help us work together to make the recruitment process and potential future employment more accessible and enjoyable for you.

Closing date: 23rd August 2026

Interview date: week commencing 31 August 2026

Research and Policy Officer 
Job Description 

About DigitalCare Hub 

Digital technology helps care services spend more time caring. It helps the people we support keep control of their lives, and of their care. Over the last few years, the need for information to be shared securely and efficiently between health and care services has become even moreapparent. But this introduces new risks – for example how information is kept safe and secure, and what happens if a digital system fails. 

This is a shared role across DigitalCare HubandtheBetter Security, Better Careprogramme which wemanage. 

Digital Care Hubis runwithsocialcare,for social care.The Digital Care Hub provides free information,guidanceand support to enable adult social care providers to make the most of digital technology – and to do it safely. 

We are an independent, not-for profit, Community Interest Company, guided by care providers, so we understand the needs and challenges facing the diverse range of organisations in our sector. 

Better Security, BetterCareis a support programme– funded by the Department of Health and Social Care and managed by Digital Care Hub -to help adult social care providers to store and share information safelyby using the Data Security and Protection Toolkit (DSPT). The DSPT is a free, online self-assessment for health and care providers to evaluate and improve their data and cyber security. 

The programme is delivered by acentral team and our local support organisations across the country. Most of these support organisations arelocal care provider trade associations. We also work closely with colleagues from the NHS, ADASS, DHSC and local councils. 

About you and the role 

We're looking for an inquisitive, analytical and collaborativeResearch and Policy Officerto join our growing team. 

You'll play a key role in helping Digital Care Hub become the leading source of evidence, insight and practical guidance on digital transformation, data, AI and cybersecurity in adult social care. 

Working across our national programmes, you'll design and deliver research projects, analyse policy developments, engage with providers and partners, and translate complex issues into clear, practical resources that help the sector improve. You'll contribute to consultation responses, produce reports and briefings, support national events and webinars, and help us demonstrate the impact of our work. 

This is a varied role that combines research, policy development, stakeholder engagement and programme delivery. No two weeks will look the same—you could be facilitating a roundtable with care providers, analysing survey data, drafting a briefing for government, interviewing providers for a case study or helping develop new guidance on AI in social care. 

You'll work closely with colleagues across Digital Care Hub and our national partners, taking an entrepreneurial approach to identifying emerging issues, generating insight and turning evidence into action. You'll report directly to the Chief Executive Officer and will have the opportunity to shape the development of our research and policy function as the organisation continues to grow. 

Key Responsibilities 

Research and Insight 

• Design and deliver research projects. 

• Develop surveys and analyse data. 

• Conduct interviews and focus groups. 

• Facilitate provider roundtables. 

• Review policy and academic literature. 

• Produce evidence summaries. 

• Identify emerging issues across digital health and adult social care. 

Policy Development 

• Draft policy papers and consultation responses. 

• Translate research into practical recommendations. 

• Produce briefings for government, boards and senior leaders. 

• Track developments across DHSC, NHS England, CQC and ICO. 

• Support Digital Care Hub policy positions. 

Programme Delivery 

• Support grant funded programmes. 

• Develop guidance and resources. 

• Produce webinar materials and case studies. 

• Coordinate advisory groups. 

• Support monitoring and evaluation. 

Stakeholder Engagement 

• Build relationships with providers and representative bodies. 

• Collaborate with universities, government and sector partners. 

• Engage technology suppliers where appropriate. 

Communications 

• Write reports, briefings and newsletters. 

• Draft articles and presentations. 

• Support thought leadership. 

Monitoring and Evaluation 

• Develop outcome measures. 

• Analyse programme impact. 

• Produce evaluation reports. 

• Identify lessons learned. 

Person Specification 

Essential 

• Degree or equivalent experience. 

• Experience designing research projects. 

• Strong qualitative and quantitative research skills. 

• Excellent written communication. 

• Ability to explain complex subjects clearly. 

• Excellent organisational skills. 

Desirable 

• Charity experience. 

• Knowledge of digital transformation. 

• Understanding of AI and cybersecurity. 

• Experience evaluating programmes. 

• Experience working with government. 

 
Main terms and conditions 

• £36,000 per annum including pension. 

• Full timefixed term12 month fixed term contract 

• Homebased,withsometravelacross England 

• 28 days annual leave plus Bank holidays 

We are seeking a motivated Income Generation Support Officer specialising in fundraising to support the Management Committe and CEO. In this vital role, you will play a key part in supporting our organisation’s efforts to increase income.

Primary Objectives of the Post:

The role of the Income Generation Support Officer involves a variety of responsibilities aimed at increasing the organisation's income from various sources.

Purpose of the Job:

This post plays a crucial role in ensuring that the organisation's fundraising efforts are relevant, successful and aligned with our financial objectives.

To ensure that the quality of the Network’s work is maintained and developed in line with Network’s Values and Philosophy.

To contribute to the maintenance and development of effective communication throughout the organisation.

The postholder will support the Management Committee, CEO and Office Manager by conducting initial research, maintaining fundraising data, and handling administrative duties related to grant applications and other fundraising activities.

Main Tasks and Responsibilities:

1. Research and apply for grants: Research trusts, foundations and other funding streams - identifying specific grant criteria, deadlines, and alignment with our work.

2. Build relationships with funders: Cultivate and nurture relationships with donors, foundations, and funding bodies.

3. Write and manage applications: Assist in drafting grant applications and collating necessary documents (financials, safeguarding policies, etc.) ensuring they are high quality, clear, concise, and impactful.

4. Develop and support fundraising activities: Assist with community-based fundraising activities, including event planning and stewardship.

5. Collaborate with WSUN staff: Work closely with our team to gather insights and data for creating compelling proposals/applications.

6. Data Management: keep accurate, up-to-date records of donor/grant contact information, application stages, and reporting dates.

7. Develop and maintain our “Case for Support: analysing need, interpreting results and using evaluation reports to inform future fundraising strategies and content.

8. Maintaining quality and integrity - ensuring that all income generation activities are conducted in a transparent and responsible manner.

In addition:

The post-holder may be requested by the CEO from time to time to carry out work not included in the above job description, in line with the needs of the Network and the level of responsibility of the post.

Who we are:

Hope is here.The Global Returns Project (GRP) is a UK charity unlocking new philanthropy to deliver urgent solutions for our planet. 

We are a fast-moving nonprofit that makes donations to high-impact nature and climate charities simple – and we don’t take any fees. We’ve already mobilised £3 million for top environmental solutions and are working to unlock at least £30 million annually by the end of the decade. 

We are growing quickly: Last year's annual fundraising was nearly triple the previous year. 

The problem: Charities protecting our planet can turn the tide on climate change and nature loss. They have the skills, strategies and networks to deliver fast and global impact. But less than 2% of philanthropy goes to climate mitigation. 

Our solution: In the UK alone, around £2 trillion sits with “HNW+” individuals – those holding between £100k and £30 million. Yet traditional philanthropy largely overlooks them. We’re unlocking this funding by offering trusted, pro bono advice and a simple, portfolio approach to giving. Our expertise in UK wealth advice offers a unique path to scalability and systems-change. 

What we are looking for:

Job title: Impact and Communications Officer

We're looking for a curious and capable Impact and Communications Officer to help us find, assess, report on and support some of the world’s highest impact climate and nature charities. 

Internally, you will play a critical role in supporting the research on charities within our portfolio that our Due Diligence Committee oversees – helping develop our methodology and feeding into charity selection and assessment projects. You’ll help write impact reports and coordinate webinars for our network about our charities. You’ll also manage, update and clean leads in our CRM (Beacon), and support month-end financial processing. 

Externally, you will produce much of the Global Returns Project’s communications content, telling compelling stories about cutting-edge environmental projects. You’ll assist with scheduling and sending our newsletters, keeping our website up-to-date, and editing video content. As we generate support for our portfolio via public campaigns and match-funding initiatives, you’ll help coordinate these efforts in line with the strategy set by the wider team. 

You will thrive in a small, fast-moving team – taking initiative, being collaborative, and contributing to shared goals. Crucially, you'll care deeply about climate and nature. 

Professional experience preferred: Some professional experience in marketing and communications (as a guide, likely 1-3 years).

Please see the full job description attached for information on skills required and main duties and responsibilities.

Location: Centrally located, light and airy office on Regent Street, London. Hybrid working: estimated 3-4 days per week in the office. 

Benefits: 25 days’ annual leave, plus statutory bank holidays. Occasional 1–2 days’ additional paid leave over the Christmas period. Flexible working.

Reports to: Kiki Shahida, Impact Officer

Preferred start date: 7 September 2026 

The Communications and Research Officer is a new post designed to help bridge the gap between the research and campaigning work of Drone Wars UK and our supporters and the general public. The role is split 50/50 between communications and research. The communications element combines social media activity, website content creation and email communications, helping to ensure our messages are communicated clearly, consistently and creatively across a range of channels.  The research element consists of undertaking a number of short-term specific research projects alongside participation in on-going longer-term research work.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys creating engaging content as well as undertaking in-depth investigations that contribute to positive social change. In addition, the person appointed will take an active role in the forthcoming strategic review shaping the organisation’s work over the next few years.

Job Description

Communications

• To be responsible for Drone Wars UK’s website, managing regular content updates and improving the content, layout and structure.
• To schedule social media content and manage social media accounts to increase engagement and reach.
• To use appropriate design tools in the creation of content for website and all digital and public facing channels.
• To undertake email campaigns in conjunction with the staff team to promote our work and increase participation in events.
• To participate in engagement with legacy and new media alongside other members of the staff team in order to promote the work and campaign aims of Drone Wars UK.
• To undertake appropriate speaking engagements on behalf of DWUK.

Research

• To undertake specific pieces of research into the use of armed drones, autonomous weapons and the militarisation of space as agreed with the Director.
• To write and produce accessible reports, articles and briefings based on the research undertaken.
• To write appropriate copy for the website.
• To contribute to on-going research work by keeping abreast of new and emerging military technologies.
• To contribute to maintaining the Drone Wars UK internal information database 

General

•  To work collaboratively with the staff team to set priorities and to develop existing and future research projects and campaigns.
• To network with other communicators, researchers and campaigners working on these issues in relevant organisations. 
• To undertake tasks as directed by the Director to ensure the smooth running of the organisation.
• To participate in campaign activity to limit the harms caused by armed drones, autonomous weapons and the militarisation of space.

Person Specification

Knowledge and Experience

• A degree, preferably to Master’s level, or equivalent experience in a subject area relevant to the post (Essential).
• Three years experience of engaging in research work, preferably in the peace and security/human rights sector or similar field (Essential).
• Commitment to the aims and objectives of Drone Wars UK (Essential) 
• Demonstrable ability to write and express thoughts and positions clearly, succinctly and accurately in English in a variety of formats, including major reports (Essential).
• Hands-on experience of managing websites (WordPress) and utilising social media, email marketing platforms, and varied digital tools to drive engagement (Essential). 

Skills and Attributes

• Understanding of the on-going legal and ethical debate around the use of armed drones, autonomous weapons and/or militarisation of space (Essential).
• Ability to manage workloads and professional duties without day-to-day managerial oversight (Essential) 
• The right to work in the UK (Essential)
• Understanding of and commitment to equal opportunities (Essential). 
• Ability to work both independently and as a member of a team (Essential).
• Experience in engaging with legacy and new media to promote campaign objectives (Desirable). 
• Familiarity with national and international security issues and institutions (Desirable).
• Willingness to learn new skills and work co-operatively with others to build strong campaigns (Desirable). 

Great support has a substantial impact on small environmental charities and the people they benefit. In this role you will be delivering an established, enjoyable, professional development programme for city farms, community gardens and care farms. You'll focus on training, networking and showcase events. The role involves getting out and about, but most of the work is office work. This role does not include any practical gardening or farming activities.

Hours:                      Three days a week (22.5 hours).  Ideally to include Tuesdays.

Salary:                      Starting salary of £33,573 FTE including London Weighting.

Pension: 5% of salary for standard contracted hours after successful completion of a 3-month probation period.

Holiday: 33 days pro-rata per year including bank holidays.

Contract: 12 months at 22.5 hours a week, subject to passing the three-month probation period. 

Location:                 Co-working space in Highbury & Islington. Frequent travel around London. 

Role Overview:

To support the delivery of a popular, enjoyable programme of training, networking and events designed with and for city farms and community gardens. The programme improves the long-term viability of individual city farms and community gardens and builds the network as a whole, contributing to the sustainability of vibrant local communities throughout the capital.

The London Development Officer is part of a London team of two, working closely with the London Development Manager, and staff of city farms and community gardens, including the trustees of the London Association of City Farms and Community Gardens. The London team works with the wider team of Social Farms &  Gardens based in the UKs countries and regions.

The London programme is well-established and well-regarded.
Annual outputs include:  

· Training days designed and delivered by SF&G members

· Networking tours of community growing spaces

· Showcase events including the London Harvest Festival

Recruitment Process:

Apply by: Midday Monday 17 August 2026.

Interviews: Thursday 27 August.

Start date: As soon as possible. Ideally by 1st October.

Social Farms & Gardens is an equal opportunities employer that understands that the best employees may not always be the best at job applications or interviews.  We try to make our recruitment processes relatively stress-free.

You do not have to meet all elements of the Person Specification to be considered for the role.

We do not ask for any formal qualifications as not everyone thrives in a school setting.

We would like you to submit these three documents by email:  

· A CV

· A Personal Statement giving specific examples of your experience for each element of the Person Specification
These will be anonymised to minimise bias

· A cover page with personal details

And complete an Equal Opportunities form, online 

Full details in the Job Pack.

We look forward to hearing from you.

The Opportunity 

As a key leader within our Partnerships and Income Development team, you will be responsible for creating, developing and delivering the Social Mobility Foundation’s Employer Programme – how we inform, influence and positively impact employer-led social mobility, and a source of income generation.

You will champion the Employer Programme internally, forging effective collaborations with colleagues across the organisation to ensure that our work with employers is understood and celebrated, and that opportunities to promote, develop and grow are maximised.

Reporting to the Head of Partnerships and Income Development, you’ll be the custodian of the Social Mobility Employer Index (SMEI) – our annual benchmarking and assessment tool for how UK employers recruit, retain and develop talent from all socioeconomic backgrounds and build inclusive workplaces. A key priority for this role will be a strategic growth plan for the Employer Programme that focuses on growing Index entrants, diversifying employment sectors, progressing employer best practice and maximising revenue.

By collaborating with internal teams and existing partners who offer pro-bono consultancy, you’ll scope, develop and deliver new products, resources and services that equip employers with the knowledge and practical tools to improve social mobility in the workplace.

We’re looking for someone who is willing and able to move easily between strategic thinking, marketing and hands-on delivery, and is excited about taking full ownership over this important work. Combining a passion for delivering our mission with keen commercial acumen, high attention to detail and project management skills, this is a unique chance to make a big impact on social mobility in the UK.

Location: We operate a hybrid model of work i.e. a combination of in-person and remote, with flexible days in the office depending on business need and your preferences. We would typically expect in-office attendance an average of one day per week.

When in the office you will be based in one of our regional offices (either Birmingham, Glasgow, Liverpool, London, Manchester or Newcastle – depending on preference and accessibility). This is where you will usually attend in-person events, training sessions etc. though some travel, to other offices and other locations, will occasionally be expected.

Contract: Full-time/Part-time, Permanent

Hours: We are looking for the right candidate and while we envisage this being a full-time role (37.5 hours per week) we are open to flexible working arrangements such as part-time, compressed hours, flexitime and job-shares. 

Occasional/frequent evening or weekend work may be required, for which time off in lieu (TOIL) will be given. 

Key Responsibilities:

1. Customer service and value proposition

• Develop value propositions for the SMEI and other employer products and services to help employers understand and improve social mobility in the workplace 
• Create and develop assets and activities to market the Employer Programme to employers across a range of platforms 
• Define the customer journey for the SMEI and ensure seamless customer experience, with clear and proactive communication and relevant content and resources 
• Actively manage and steward the customer pipeline for the SMEI and broader Employer Programme, reporting on prospects, acquisition and conversion 
• Gather customer feedback and market insights to help improve and develop products and services  

 2. Product ownership and project management 

• Project manage the Programme, with responsibility for key delivery areas yourself, as well as working with the Senior Index Coordinator / Policy Officer and other colleagues/external suppliers to deliver 
• Oversee the day-to-day delivery of the Programme and the annual Index scoring and feedback cycle, working with the Senior Policy Officer to ensure a smooth experience for employers  
• Lead the annual cycle for the SMEI product and other employer products as they are developed: defining the scope of work and setting priorities, survey review and design, data collection, overseeing marking and reporting, product review and evaluation 
• Manage all aspects of the Employer service, including the ongoing development of the digital platform, employer resources and online content   

3. Product and service development

• Develop the Employer Programme by scoping, developing and delivering new products, resources and services that equip employers with the knowledge and practical tools to improve social mobility in the workplace, e.g. a consultancy offer, events, webinars, staff training and off-the-shelf resources  
• Work with pro-bono supporters and existing partners to scope need, and test and pilot new products and services 
• Responsible for the annual evaluation of the programme, drawing on data and policy evidence, customer feedback and sector insights to inform development  

4. Stakeholder Management

• Champion and represent the Employer Programme externally, including attending and presenting at events, acting as spokesperson, meeting prospective entrants and other opportunities to grow connections and reach 
• Engage with external stakeholders, such as employers, policy experts and social mobility practitioners, to understand key issues and trends relevant to workplace and employer-led social mobility 
• Scope and create an external advisory group to support the development of the products and services that form part of the Employer Programme 
• Seek opportunities to collaborate with external partners to share relevant content and tools, and co-create and develop new products and services 
• Ensure that insights and impact from the Index and the SMF’s work with employers are communicated internally and externally 

5. Systems and Processes

• Work with internal and external partners to ensure the Index is as technologically efficient as possible, e.g. automating aspects of the marking and feedback process, ensuring quality monitoring, evaluation and reporting and identifying and progressing other ways to drive efficiency and maximise reach, whilst retaining the quality of the programme 
• Drive best practice and set a culture where digital tools are used effectively for relationship management and fundraising, including Salesforce 
• Maintain accurate and up to date records, using SharePoint and our Salesforce CRM to support pipeline management, income tracking and partner record 

6. Leadership and Development

• Play a proactive role in leading and inspiring the team, fostering a collaborative and creative culture of fundraising, income and product development 
• Champion the Employer Programme internally, forging effective collaborations across the organisation to ensure that our work with employers is understood and celebrated, and that opportunities to promote, develop and grow are maximised. Key relationships will include colleagues working in communications, campaigns and advocacy, data, finance and programme development.  

7. Line Management (Matrix Structure)

• Day-to-day people management  
• Identify training and development needs; employ a coaching approach, and clarify opportunities for skill enhancement and career growth  
• Recruit and induct new team members, and oversee the separation process for any leavers   
• Reasonably support well-being; provide a supportive work environment, and address any issues that may impact the well-being and morale of your reports   

Please see full job description attached for more details. 

Person Specification:

We need someone who will demonstrate our organisational skills-based competencies - as listed below: 

1.  Leadership
2.  Communication
3.  Adaptability
4.  Professionalism 
5.  Decision-making

Technical knowledge, understanding and experience required:

Commercial and customer service:

• Demonstrable experience in managing pipelines and/or stewarding customers, demonstrating excellent customer service skills and a high attention to detail
• Confidence in public speaking, presenting or facilitating workshops with professional audiences 

Project management and product development:

• Demonstrable experience designing, delivering and developing programmes, products and/or services that meet organisational needs 
• Demonstrable experience in project management, shaping long-term strategy while managing day-to-day operations and delivery 

Project management and product development:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with experience building and managing relationships 

IT skills:

• Experience using Microsoft Office
• Experience of using or understanding of CRM software to effectively support pipeline and partnership management e.g. Salesforce
• Experience of or understanding of managing and using digital platforms for programmes, products and/or services 

Policy and data skills (desirable):

• Understanding of issues related to social mobility, diversity and inclusion, or workforce development
• Understanding of and/or experience in benchmarking tools, indices or assessment frameworks 

See attached job description for more detail on the person specification

Ways of working:

• Most of our work is office based, but you will spend a lot of time collaborating with other teams and clients via email, telephone and other communications channels such as Teams or Zoom. 
• Some travel will be required as part of this role to other offices and locations, as needed for events, work placements and meetings.

Benefits

• 36/37 days' annual leave (England & Wales and Scotland respectively - includes bank and public holidays), with 3 of these days reserved for the annual end of year office closure.
• Cycle to Work scheme.
• 5% Salary sacrifice pension scheme with enhanced matching employer contributions
• Employee Assistance Programme available to staff and their family
• Flexible work options such as hybrid working, flexitime, part-time
• Regular staff team building and business planning “away days”

How to Apply

If you are interested in applying for this role, please head over to our website by 23:59, Thursday 3rd September and provide the following information:

1)    An outline of your previous relevant job roles (job title and dates only)

2)     A cover statement outlining your suitability for the role, with particular emphasis on how your experience, skills and knowledge meet the person specification (max. 750 words)

Thinking of using AI to help with your application? AI tools (such as Chat GTP, Gemini and Copilot) can help you research the SMF and the role you're applying for. They can also help you structure your application. The applications that stand out most are the ones that feel genuine and reflect your unique self and experiences.

Please note that generic applications and CV’s will not be considered.

Are you passionate about using research and evidence to influence climate policy and support local and strategic authorities to deliver their climate targets? Do you enjoy working across research, policy and stakeholder engagement in a collaborative, mission-driven organisation? Are you interested in data and impact? Then you could be UK100's new Research and Insights Officer!

You will support the delivery of UK100's research programme, helping to design and deliver projects that generate practical insights for local government. From conducting desk research and stakeholder interviews to producing reports, you'll help turn evidence into actionable recommendations that support ambitious climate action.

You'll also play a key role in translating research into policy and advocacy, through monitoring policy developments and helping to coordinate member networks and working groups. You'll lead on tracking the impact of our programmes by gathering evidence and maintaining organisational knowledge and data systems.

Research programme delivery:

• Support the Research Manager across UK100’s research, policy and member engagement workstreams, contributing to the development and delivery of projects and outputs aligned with organisational priorities and strategic objectives.
• Support the delivery of a research project focused on improving energy performance in the private rented sector. This will include stakeholder and policy mapping, coordination of qualitative fieldwork with local authorities and key stakeholders, and contributing to the development of outputs such as reports.
• Support the broader research programme through activities such as stakeholder interviews, desk-based research, and the development of research tools including surveys, questionnaires, discussion guides and workshop materials.

Policy, advocacy and parliamentary engagement:

• Translate research insights and evidence into policy and advocacy outputs.This includes monitoring relevant legislation, inquiries and policy developments; contributing to consultation responses and policy briefings; and identifying opportunities for engagement.
• Support engagement with parliamentarians and government departments, helping to organise roundtables and meetings that enable members to share evidence and insights with decision-makers.

Impact tracking:

• Lead the tracking and demonstration of UK100's impact, including gathering qualitative and quantitative evidence of our work's outcomes, speaking with member councils about the difference our support has made, and developing case studies that capture and communicate this impact.
• Support the development and maintenance of UK100’s CRM database, website and Knowledge Hub, using data and insights to help track, and demonstrate organisational impact.

Member engagement:

• Support member engagement networks and working groups, including agenda setting, meeting coordination, development of materials, and ongoing administrative support to ensure effective delivery against timelines and objectives.

Communications and dissemination:

• Support the dissemination of research and policy outputs across UK100's network and wider stakeholder base through social media, events, email communications, and contributions to the newsletter.
• Organise and support UK100’s presence at internal/external events, and positively contribute to raising UK100's profile in line with our guidance on branding, tone of voice and key messages.

Job Specification:

Essential Criteria:

• Understanding of research methods
• Knowledge of UK public policy and policymaking processes.
• Experience supporting research projects from planning to delivery and producing written outputs such as reports or briefings.
• Experience coordinating meetings or workshops
• Experience working with multiple stakeholders and managing competing priorities.
• Strong research and analytical skills.
• Excellent organisational and project coordination skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work collaboratively across teams and with external stakeholders.
• Committed to the vision, mission and values of UK100

Desirable Criteria:

• Understanding of the structures and functions of local government in the UK
• Awareness of climate, energy efficiency, or sustainability policy issues.
• Familiarity with communications and public affairs.
• Experience working in a policy, research, think tank, charity, or local government environment.
• Experience collecting and analysing impact or evaluation data.

First interviews will take place online across the 22nd and 23rd of September.

For more information, please read the attached recruitment pack.