At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead policy initiatives and influence public affairs for women's mental health services.
- Company: Join Woman’s Trust, a charity dedicated to empowering women affected by domestic abuse.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working hours, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity to work in a dynamic team focused on social change.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in women's lives and shape impactful policies.
- Qualifications: Experience in policy development and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 41400 - 46000 £ per year.
Responsible to: Chief Executive Officer
Hours: 35 hours per week. A four-day/0.8 FTE arrangement will be considered
Salary: Up to £46,000
Contract: Permanent
Location: Central London/Paddington, with occasional UK travel
About Woman’s Trust
The charity was established in 1996 to meet the gap in specialist mental health services. Woman’s Trust is led by and for women and aims to ensure that women affected by domestic abuse can live a life free from further harm and abuse. Our approach is trauma-informed and person-centred, empowering survivors on their journey to recovery from the trauma. We are committed to a positive, inclusive and equitable environment for our staff, service users and volunteers. Alongside delivering our existing 1-1 counselling, self-development workshops and therapeutic support groups for women who have experienced domestic abuse, we are focused on developing our innovative mental health services for young women and girls, delivering new peer-led support groups and providing therapeutic groups to children and their mothers. We are also committed to developing further awareness-raising workshops and training for professionals, building on our research and policy to improve systems nationally.
Purpose
The Policy and Public Affairs Manager will establish and lead Woman’s Trust’s policy and public affairs function. She will grow the organisation’s influence with UK and London government, Parliament, NHS systems, commissioners and sector partners so that the voices and experiences of women and children affected by domestic abuse shape policy, commissioning and practice. The postholder will develop and deliver an evidence-led influencing strategy; own a focused portfolio of policy priorities; build and manage senior stakeholder relationships; produce high-quality analysis, briefings and consultation responses; and provide timely political and public affairs advice to the CEO, Chair, trustees and senior colleagues. Working across services, data, communications and fundraising, she will ensure Woman’s Trust’s external positions are grounded in frontline expertise, robust evidence and appropriately supported survivor involvement. She will identify opportunities for the organisation to influence debate and policy at the intersection of domestic abuse, women’s mental health, health inequalities and public services.
This role is open to women only. The Equality Act 2010 pursuant to Schedule 9, Part 1 applies.
Closing date: 7th September 2026
Interviews: First stage: Friday, 11th September Second stage: Wednesday, 16th September 2026
Policy and Public Affairs Manager employer: The Woman's Trust
The Woman’s Trust is an exceptional employer that prioritises a supportive and inclusive work culture, making it an ideal place for those passionate about volunteer engagement. With a strong commitment to employee growth, you will have opportunities to develop your skills while contributing to meaningful initiatives that empower individuals in the community. Located in a vibrant area, our organisation offers unique advantages such as flexible working arrangements and a collaborative atmosphere that fosters innovation and teamwork.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Policy and Public Affairs Manager
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like The Woman's Trust, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like The Woman's Trust and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Policy and Public Affairs Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for The Woman's Trust and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Woman's Trust
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with The Woman's Trust, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for The Woman's Trust.
