Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead policy strategy to influence national decisions on homelessness and advocate for change.
- Company: Dynamic charity dedicated to ending youth homelessness with a strong political presence.
- Benefits: Flexible working, 26 days leave, tailored training, and health benefits.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on young people's lives and shape national policy.
- Qualifications: Proven policy expertise, strategic thinking, and excellent communication skills.
- Other info: Join a passionate team committed to social change and inclusivity.
The predicted salary is between 44000 - 62000 ÂŁ per year.
Bring your energy, creativity and expertise - and help to impact young people positively.
Location: Sherborne House, London (hybrid)
Salary: ÂŁ52,535 per annum
Closing Date: 29 March, 2026
Employment Type: Permanent
Hours per week: 37.5
About the Role
Step into a role where your policy expertise drives real change. As Head of Policy and Public Affairs, you’ll lead an ambitious strategy to influence national decision-makers, shape legislation and ensure the voices of people affected by homelessness are impossible to ignore. You’ll turn insight into impact, championing the charity’s values while strengthening political presence and public profile.
You’ll build powerful relationships across Westminster, Whitehall and the wider sector, producing sharp briefings, commissioning research and delivering high-profile events that elevate the charity’s influence. Confident in the media and skilled at simplifying complex issues, you’ll work across teams to anticipate policy change, spark innovation and help drive forward the mission to end homelessness. If you’re driven, strategic and ready to make national change happen, this is your platform.
In this role, you will:
- Lead the charity’s policy and public affairs strategy, shaping positions on homelessness, housing, welfare and health.
- Influence government policy through targeted political engagement, evidence-based advocacy and strategic communication.
- Build strong working relationships with ministers, Parliamentarians, elected mayors, senior officials and sector partners.
- Produce high-quality policy briefings, analysis, consultation responses and research-informed insights.
- Represent the charity in the media and at key events while ensuring client voices inform policy and public messaging.
About You
You will bring your policy expertise, strategic edge and confident communication skills to a role where you’ll shape national decisions, strengthen the charity’s political voice and make the experiences of people facing homelessness impossible to overlook. You’ll analyse fast-moving policy issues, build influential relationships across government, craft compelling briefings that cut through complexity and drive change through evidence-led advocacy. If you’re proactive, values-driven and thrive in high-pressure environments where innovation and collaboration matter, this is your opportunity to deliver real influence and meaningful national impact.
What You’ll Receive
- Tailored training and development
- Flexible working options where suitable
- 26 days annual leave, rising with service
- Family-friendly leave policies
- Pension scheme with employer contributions up to 7%
- Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 GP access
- Discounts across retail, travel, food, fitness and more
- Cash health plan for you and your family
- Death-in-service benefit
- Access to legal and practical support
Safer Recruitment
The charity is committed to fair and inclusive recruitment, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. If a role requires it under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975, we will carry out the appropriate Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check. We only look at information that is relevant to the role, and a criminal record will never be treated as an automatic barrier to employment. All DBS information is handled sensitively, confidentially and in line with the DBS Code of Practice, and we encourage applicants to discuss any concerns with us openly.
About The Organisation
In the 1980s, high unemployment and steep inflation was contributing to a shocking rise in youth homelessness across London. Thousands of young people were sleeping rough every night, with many areas notoriously dubbed “cardboard cities” due to the visible rise in street homelessness. Appalled by the scenes playing out across the capital, a group of people came together to tackle the challenge head on. Led by Cardinal Basil Hume and Mark McGreevy OBE, in 1989 the charity was born.
What began as a single housing project in North London soon expanded across London, Greater Manchester and the North East of England. Today, the charity provides accommodation, prevention and support services to thousands of marginalised young people across the UK each year.
Head of Policy and Public Affairs in London employer: Depaul UK
Contact Detail:
Depaul UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Policy and Public Affairs in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the policy and public affairs space. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that applications alone can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for the cause! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or at networking events, make sure to express why you care about homelessness and how your experience aligns with their mission. Authenticity goes a long way!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by knowing your stuff! Research the charity’s recent initiatives and understand the current policy landscape around homelessness. Being well-informed will help you stand out and show that you're ready to hit the ground running.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We want to see your application and hear your story. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Let’s make a difference together!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Policy and Public Affairs in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for policy and public affairs shine through. We want to see how your energy and creativity can drive real change, especially in tackling homelessness.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in policy-making and advocacy. We’re looking for someone who can influence national decision-makers, so connect your past roles to the responsibilities of this position.
Be Clear and Concise: In your written application, clarity is key. We appreciate sharp, well-structured briefings that cut through complexity. Keep your language straightforward and focus on the impact of your work.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to make a difference.
How to prepare for a job interview at Depaul UK
✨Know Your Policy Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in current policies related to homelessness, housing, and welfare. Research recent legislation and understand how it impacts the charity's mission. This will help you articulate your insights and demonstrate your expertise during the interview.
✨Build Relationships Before You Walk In
Networking is key! If possible, connect with current or former employees of the charity on LinkedIn. Understanding their experiences can give you valuable insights into the organisation’s culture and priorities, which you can reference in your interview.
✨Prepare Sharp Briefings
Practice creating concise and impactful briefings on complex issues. You might be asked to present your thoughts on a specific policy challenge, so being able to simplify complex topics will showcase your communication skills and strategic thinking.
✨Showcase Your Media Savvy
Be ready to discuss how you would represent the charity in the media. Think about past experiences where you’ve successfully communicated a message or influenced public opinion. Highlighting these skills will show that you can elevate the charity’s profile effectively.