It’s a new year with a new government – and we are looking for someone who can keep mental illness at the top of the agenda.

There has never been a more exciting time to work in mental health. This year alone the Government has promised to publish a White Paper to reform the Mental Health Act; the new NHS Long Term Plan – which gives £2.3bn to NHS mental health services – is in its first stages of implementation; there is a new disability strategy on the horizon and the Prime Minister has promised to sort out social care.

What will you be doing?

As Senior Public Affairs and Policy Officer, you’ll play a vital role in holding the Government to account on making their promises a reality. You’ll be as comfortable lobbying politicians and stakeholders as writing submissions to government consultations about the improvements that NHS mental health services need. You’ll be strong on detail while being able to see the bigger political picture. You will support the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Mental Health to keep mental health on the agenda in Westminster. Full of ideas, you will be an excellent writer and have experience of analysing the external policy environment and creating credible policy solutions. A passion for politics and mental health are key.

Public perceptions about mental health have changed significantly since our founder John Pringle had an article about schizophrenia published in the Times in 1970 – but there is still a huge amount of work to do. Our supporters with severe mental illness often tell us that they feel totally ignored and invisible in the current “national conversation” about mental health. Can you help us change that?

The successful candidate will be well supported and given the chance to learn from experienced and dedicated public affairs and campaigning professionals. 

For a full job description please follow the link to the vacancy.