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- Tasks: Support projects tackling poverty and economic insecurity in the UK.
- Company: Join the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, a leading social change organisation fighting poverty.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model, flexible hours, and a competitive salary with London weighting.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on society while working in a diverse and inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just a passion for social change and understanding of poverty issues.
- Other info: Applications from all backgrounds are encouraged, especially those with lived experiences of poverty.
The predicted salary is between 29083 - 29083 £ per year.
Salary: £29,083.60 per annum, plus £5000 London weighting if applicable
Full Time, Permanent (35 hours per week)
About the role
The Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF) is working to speed up and support the transition to a more equitable and just future, free from poverty, in which people and planet can flourish. We recognise poverty as multi-dimensional, with material, social and emotional aspects (while viewing economic, social and environmental justice as inextricably linked). Inspired by the work of our founder over a century ago, today we are an independent, social change organisation, with an endowment, working across all nations of the UK. The purpose of these programmes is to deliver distinctive and powerful work that makes an impact in areas we care about: communities and social security; work, care and families; and housing, land and climate.
As our Policy Assistant, you will support the delivery of projects that generate arguments and policy thinking around our priority policy areas, focusing on issues related to poverty and economic insecurity in the UK today, and chart a course to a different and better future. You will seek out and connect with people or organisations developing new ideas and strategies that can contribute to our policy goals. You’ll support policy, analysis and external affairs leads to help project our work externally in ways that seek to:
- shape the national conversation;
- influence power and decision making at the highest levels;
- build alliances and partnerships;
- catalyse social change across society;
- nurture the seeds of longer range shifts in thinking and action.
About you
This is an entry level position - no experience of working in a thinktank or charity is required. Candidates will have an interest and familiarity about the causes and consequences of poverty and the social and economic conditions on which it rests (this could be through direct experience of poverty and/or disadvantage). You’ll have an awareness of politics, relevant policy debates and approaches to social change along with an understanding of how research and evidence can be used to understand and grapple with an issue (quantitative, qualitative and participatory).
How to apply
If you share our passion and this role sounds like you, then we’re looking forward to hearing from you. Please submit your CV and supporting information via our online application platform. The closing date for applications is Sunday 6th July 2025. Interviews are TBC. We reserve the right to bring the closing date forward should enough quality applications be received prior to the current closing date.
Additional Information
Applications are welcome from all, regardless of age, disability, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, religion or belief, race, sex, sexual orientation, trans status or socioeconomic background. We actively encourage applications from people with lived experience of poverty, those who have grown up working-class, or have experienced other forms of marginality and exclusion. We seek to have plurality of thought at JRF and we know that this is brought about by having diversity of experience. We are committed to being an anti-racist organisation and operate an anonymised recruitment process so that bias is eliminated from the shortlisting process.
In support of our approach to flexible working, we are happy to receive applications from those seeking full-time employment, as well as those who may want to share the role on a part-time basis. When making your application, please state whether you want to be considered for either full or part-time work and, if part-time, the number of hours per week you would be looking for. We’re developing a more blended approach to how and where you work. This means you can expect to work flexibly between the office and home (with an expectation of two days a week in your home office).
We are a Disability Confident Employer. This means that we are committed to the recruitment, progression and retention of disabled individuals. We shall also offer interviews to disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria for the job. If you have a disability, please tell us if you would like to be considered for an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme. If you have any additional needs and need reasonable adjustments to be made to the interview process, please let us know.
Policy Assistant x2 - York or London - Hybrid employer: Joseph Rowntree Foundation
Contact Detail:
Joseph Rowntree Foundation Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Policy Assistant x2 - York or London - Hybrid
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the key issues surrounding poverty and economic insecurity in the UK. Read up on recent reports and publications from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation to understand their approach and priorities, which will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of social change and policy. Attend relevant events or webinars where you can meet people who work in think tanks or charities, as this could provide valuable insights and connections that may benefit your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your understanding of how research informs policy decisions. Be prepared to discuss examples of how evidence-based approaches can address social issues, as this will show your analytical skills and commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Consider your own experiences and how they relate to the role. If you have personal insights into poverty or social issues, be ready to share these in a way that highlights your passion for the cause and your motivation to contribute to the JRF's mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Policy Assistant x2 - York or London - Hybrid
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to grasp the key responsibilities and requirements of the Policy Assistant position. Highlight your interest in poverty and social change, as this aligns with the foundation's mission.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect relevant skills and experiences that relate to the role. Emphasise any academic or personal experiences that demonstrate your understanding of poverty and social issues.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the role and the organisation's mission. Discuss how your background and interests align with their goals, and mention any specific projects or ideas you would like to contribute to.
Be Clear About Your Availability: In your application, specify whether you are applying for full-time or part-time work. If part-time, clearly state the number of hours you wish to work each week to ensure your preferences are considered.
How to prepare for a job interview at Joseph Rowntree Foundation
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
Before your interview, take some time to research the Joseph Rowntree Foundation and its mission to combat poverty. Familiarise yourself with their key projects and values, as this will help you articulate how your interests align with their goals.
✨Show Your Passion for Social Change
Demonstrate your genuine interest in social issues, particularly those related to poverty and economic insecurity. Be prepared to discuss any personal experiences or insights that have shaped your understanding of these topics.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Relevant Policies
Brush up on current policy debates surrounding poverty and social justice in the UK. Being able to reference specific policies or recent developments will show that you are engaged and knowledgeable about the field.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. This could include inquiries about the organisation's future projects or how they measure the impact of their work. Asking questions shows your enthusiasm and helps you assess if the role is a good fit for you.
