Health Improvement Officer: Healthy Eating and Nutrition

Join Islington Council as a fixed‑term Health Improvement Officer focused on improving children’s health, food experiences and tackling food inequality. This role offers the chance to work hands‑on with schools, early years settings and communities to improve lunch and snack provision, promote healthier food environments and support families to make healthier choices.

Responsibilities

• Support schools, early years and community settings to improve menus, snacks and mealtime experiences.
• Deliver training and practical support to meet food and nutrition standards.
• Lead the Families for Life Community Champion programme, recruiting, training and supporting volunteers to share healthy lifestyle messages.
• Work in partnership across council services and with external organisations to address food poverty and health inequalities.

Qualifications

• A degree in nutrition or dietetics (preferably AfN or HCPC registered).
• Experience working with children, young people and families in diverse communities.
• Confidence delivering training and working with partners and volunteers.
• Strong communication, organisation and relationship‑building skills.

About the team

You will be based in Islington’s Health and Wellbeing team within Children and Young People’s Services, working under the Specialist Dietitian for Schools and Early Years. The team is committed to reducing inequalities and improving outcomes for local families, guided by Islington’s CARE values: collaborative, ambitious, resourceful and empowering.

Our offer to you

• Up to 31 days leave per year, increasing to 36 days after five years of local government service.
• A range of flexible working arrangements to maintain a healthy work‑life balance, as well as a 35‑hour working week.
• Learning and development opportunities to maximise your potential.
• Competitive pay and a commitment to paying all staff the London Living Wage at minimum.
• Excellent local government pension scheme.
• Cycle to Work scheme and discounted gym memberships.
• Local discounts from restaurants, shops, health and beauty therapists, and more.

Workforce Equality, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

We are dedicated to creating an inclusive and equitable workforce, where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. We have a zero‑tolerance approach to any unlawful discrimination, harassment or victimisation on the grounds of the protected characteristics under the 2010 Equality Act. We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion and promoting equality, equity, diversity and inclusion at all levels of the organisation.

Pre‑Employment Checks

• Proof of address
• Evidence of any name changes (if applicable)
• Right to work in the UK
• Overseas criminal record check (if applicable)
• Satisfactory references
• Occupational Health clearance
• Evidence of professional qualifications or registrations
• DBS check at the appropriate level (if applicable)

Safeguarding

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The post requires a basic/standard/enhanced DBS check with children/adult barred list, Social Work England/HCPC registration, qualifications check and 3/5 years referencing.

Disability Confident Scheme

Islington Council operates a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria and we are committed to providing support to applicants who request reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process and throughout their career with us.

If you’re ready to bring your passion and expertise to a dynamic team, apply today! Help shape healthier food environments for children and families in Islington and make a difference where it matters most.