Barbara Keeley MP, Shadow Minister for Mental Health and Social Care, is seeking to appoint a Senior Parliamentary Researcher in her Westminster office. The successful candidate will deal with a high profile policy agenda, keep Barbara informed about developments in mental health and social care & support Barbara’s communications activities.

Responsibilities will include but are not limited to:
• Support Barbara's work in Parliament: provide briefings, speaking notes & support efforts to make changes to legislation
• Research primarily on mental health and social care but also across a wide range of issues. Maintain & develop knowledge of relevant legislation
• Analyse & evaluate research presenting findings in a clear, accessible manner
• Draft speeches & opinion articles
• Act as gatekeeper & have strategic oversight of the ever-changing & packed parliamentary diary
• Draft Parliamentary written questions
• Draft policy-related correspondence replies to constituents & others
• Develop & amplify campaigns on social media
• Monitor Parliamentary & media developments, particularly in mental health and social care
• Liaise effectively with internal and external contacts

The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate that they are/have:
• At least 2 years’ experience working for an MP in Parliament or a similar environment in political, charitable, lobbying or communications is essential
• 1 year minimum experience of policy work in mental health or social care is essential
• Excellent verbal, policy research & writing skills
• Strong organisational and project management skills & ability to work to tight deadlines
• Ability to prioritise a demanding workload and work under pressure
• Ability to spot political campaigning opportunities, devise campaigns & work alongside a range of stakeholders in delivering political change
• Highly motivated with the ability to take initiative and be responsible for own workload.
• Must be able to work independently as well as part of a wider team
• Experience in managing & using social media & making videos
• Must be a supporter of the aims and values of the Labour Party