At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead health and safety initiatives, research policies, and advocate for workers' rights.
- Company: Join the TUC, a champion for safer workplaces and worker advocacy.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of health and safety, shaping policies that protect workers.
- Qualifications: Experience in policy development and a passion for advocating workers' rights.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 67674 - 67674 £ per year.
Location: London
Salary: £67,674 (pro rata) per annum including London Weighting; Regional location: £61,458 per annum (pro rata)
12 month fixed term (maternity cover), contract
Full-Time, 35 hours per week (happy to talk flexible working)
Location: Congress House, London or any TUC office (with travel to Congress House as required)
The Vacancy
We are happy to consider secondments from affiliated unions. The TUC is proud of its history in winning safer workplaces for all. We are looking for a dedicated Policy Lead to continue this vital work. You will manage our health and safety portfolio, focusing on work-related illness and injury prevention, and the evolving challenges of health and safety regulation in the modern workplace.
What you’ll be doing:
- Policy & Research: Research and author policy statements, briefings, and consultation responses on a wide range of H&S issues; co-ordinating the work of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Occupational Safety and Health.
- Reps Education and Organising: Coordinate the TUC’s union Health and Safety specialists network and work with the TUC Education team to develop materials to support H&S reps on the ground and support unions to organise and grow using Health and Safety.
- Union Advocacy: Represent the TUC and our affiliated unions views on health and safety in public settings including with regulators as well as with politicians, civil servants and the national media.
What we’re looking for:
- Significant experience in policy development or campaigning, specifically within health and safety or a related field.
- Proven ability to work with union stakeholders to understand and advocate for their views in a range of settings.
- Demonstrable experience in translating complex legislation into an accessible format to educate and empower union reps and members.
- Ability to build and maintain relationships and work independently to tight deadlines.
- A degree or equivalent experience and a passion for protecting workers' rights.
If this is you, then take a look at our job description and person specification.
The TUC values a diverse workforce and welcomes applications from all sections of the community and from within and outside of the trade union movement. We welcome applications from any candidate but are particularly keen to receive applications from Black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, who are underrepresented at this grade in the TUC.
Therefore, if you’re BME and are interested in the post, we invite you to join an online briefing at 1 pm, on Tuesday 14 April 2026 about the post, to hear about the TUC and ask questions of the recruiting manager.
The TUC operates an anonymised recruitment process, and names are not included during shortlisting. We don’t ask for details of educational institutions attended.
To view the job description and person specification, guidance on completing your application and TUC terms and conditions, please visit our online application portal.
Closing date: 12:00 noon, Friday 17 April 2026
Shortlist date: 18th April 2026
Interview date: Week commencing 27th April actual date to be confirmed
Health and Safety Lead employer: Trades Union Congress
Contact Detail:
Trades Union Congress Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Health and Safety Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the health and safety sector, especially those connected to unions. A casual chat can lead to opportunities you won’t find on job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Show up at industry events or webinars. Engaging with others in your field not only boosts your knowledge but also puts you on the radar of potential employers. Plus, it’s a great way to learn about the latest trends in health and safety!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of social media! Follow organisations like the TUC and engage with their posts. It’s a fab way to stay informed and show your passion for health and safety issues.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in our mission. Tailor your application to highlight your experience in policy development and advocacy – that’s what we’re all about!
We think you need these skills to ace Health and Safety Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know the Job Inside Out: Before you start writing, make sure you really understand the role of Health and Safety Lead. Dive into the job description and highlight key responsibilities and skills. This will help us see how your experience aligns with what we're looking for.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! Make it personal by tailoring your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements of the role. Use the language from the job description to show us you’re a perfect fit.
Showcase Your Experience: When detailing your experience, focus on relevant achievements in health and safety or policy development. Use concrete examples that demonstrate your ability to advocate for workers' rights and translate complex legislation into accessible formats.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our online application portal. It’s straightforward and ensures your application is processed correctly. Plus, you’ll find all the guidance you need to complete your application successfully!
How to prepare for a job interview at Trades Union Congress
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest health and safety regulations and policies. Familiarise yourself with the TUC's work and its impact on workplace safety. This will show your passion and commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your ability to develop policy and advocate for union stakeholders. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses clearly.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Don’t just answer questions; engage in a conversation. Ask insightful questions about the TUC’s current projects or challenges in health and safety. This shows your interest and helps you gauge if the role is right for you.
✨Demonstrate Your Advocacy Skills
Be ready to discuss how you would represent the TUC and its affiliated unions in public settings. Think of scenarios where you might need to translate complex legislation into accessible language for union reps and members.