Legal Researcher Jobs

We are seeking a professionally qualified and experienced Head of Legal to lead our legal team and provide professional legal advice on employment law matters. The Head of Legal role is pivotal in supporting our Senior Management Team, staff, and members, ensuring that our legal services are effective and aligned with the union's objectives of building union power.

Salary and Location 

• Band 5, Regional Spine points 23-19

• Starting salary: £58,877 p.a. rising to £67,689 p.a. in annual increments

• PCS Birmingham

Successful candidates for the Head of Legal will be able to demonstrate:

• Proven experience in employment law and legal management

• Strong leadership and people management skills

• Excellent communication and negotiation abilities

• Commitment to promoting equality and diversity in the workplace

• Ability to work collaboratively and manage complex legal issues

The main duties of the Head of Legal role include:

• Delivering expert legal guidance and representation on employment law issues

• Conducting legal research, drafting claims, and representing members in employment tribunal hearings and negotiating on their behalf

• Managing a team of legal professionals, overseeing casework management and ensuring alignment with the union's strategic goals

• Building and maintaining relationships with contractors to ensure cost-effective services

As a qualified solicitor/legal executive with at least 5 years of post-qualification experience, you will be able to show how you maintain and share your up to date knowledge of employment legislation as the Head of Legal.  You will be committed to developing your team, through training, appraisal and the use of technology.  An understanding of the political processes in the UK and the role and work of trade unions is essential for the Head of Legal role.

Closing date: at 12 midday on Wednesday 12 February 2025

Interviews will be held by Zoom: Wednesday 26 February 2025 

Selected applicants may be invited to a second interview on Friday 28 February 2025.

About PCS

PCS is the Public and Commercial Services Union, representing many thousands of members working in the civil service and related areas.

Employer Benefits

You will have access to a generous package of staff benefits including

• flexible working (including hybrid working)

• childcare and family support

• generous maternity/paternity leave

• 32 days leave and Christmas closure

• pension scheme

• employee assistance programme

Learning and Development

The union offers a wide range of learning and development opportunities. We will work with you to support your continued professional development.

PCS Recruiting Process

We use CVMinder to manage all recruitment activities. It helps us to maintain our commitment to equality and diversity by ensuring that we are fair and compliant with our recruiting practices.

Applications must be received by the closing date and time specified.

Candidates invited for interview are required to make themselves available on the date/s specified. Interview dates cannot be changed to accommodate candidates who are unavailable to attend on the specified date.

• CVs will not be accepted. Please see the job description/person specification and follow the application process.

• PCS is working towards equal opportunities and is positive about disabled people.

• All posts can be considered on a full-time, part-time or job share basis.

Please view our guidance for applicants.

As the UK’s leading dementia research charity, we’re working to revolutionise the way we treat, diagnose and prevent dementia. But we will not stop there. With your support, we will keep going until every person is free from the heartbreak of dementia. We exist for a cure.

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Legal Counsel to join our dynamic team. The Legal Counsel is responsible for advising and challenging senior colleagues, ensuring the provision of sound legal advice and guidance. They will oversee legal compliance, manage legal risk mitigation efforts and take ownership of legal processes to enable the smooth operation of our organisation.

This position will take accountability for developing and implementing the charity’s legal strategies, ensuring that legal risks are proactively identified, managed, and mitigated effectively.

Main duties and responsibilities of the role:

Compliance and Regulations

· Take ownership of monitoring and advising on changes in laws and regulations relevant to the charity, including but not limited to charity law, data protection, health and safety.

· Oversee the development and execution of strategies to address legal risks, obligations, and opportunities.

· Ensure compliance with applicable legal frameworks, to include the creation and maintenance of a legal register.

· Proactively identify, monitor, address, and report on legal (and where appropriate other business) issues of significance.

Contracts

· Take responsibility for drafting, reviewing and negotiating a variety of contracts including, but not limited to commercial, research, collaboration contracts and service agreements, ensuring compliance with relevant laws and mitigating potential risks.

· Oversee the provision of timely and pragmatic legal advice on matters of contract law, intellectual property rights, employment law, governance, and other relevant areas, ensuring alignment with our organisational goals.

Litigation & Dispute Resolution

· Take ownership of managing legal disputes, litigation, and other legal matters, ensuring effective collaboration with external counsel to safeguard the charity’s interests.

· Identify and address legal risks proactively and escalate more complex legal matters when appropriate.

· Provide specialist advice to ensure foreseeable legal risks are effectively identified.

Stakeholder Engagement & Training

· Be accountable for establishing and maintaining effective business relationships with internal and external stakeholders, overseeing the integration of legal input into decision-making processes.

· Take responsibility for developing and delivering training sessions and workshops to ensure employees and stakeholders are well informed on legal matters, contracts, policies, and procedures.

· Establish and maintain effective business relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

What we are looking for:

· Qualified solicitor or barrister in the UK, with a current practicing certificate, sound legal training in a well-regarded legal practice, and relevant post-qualification experience in-house and / or in private practice.

· Strong knowledge of contract law, and the drafting of agreements, negotiating contracts and developing compliance.

· Strong knowledge and understanding of UK legal frameworks, regulations, and compliance requirements applicable to charitable organisations.

· Ability to translate complex technical information into clear and accessible advice to non-legal stakeholders.

· Extensive demonstrable post-qualification experience.

· Solution focused, pragmatic, and able to apply legal knowledge and good practice in day-to-day work.

· Able and prepared to quickly develop a good understanding of new legal areas and issues which affect the organisation.

· Able to recognise when more complex and serious issues arise and escalate appropriately.

· Proven ability to independently lead initiatives, oversee multiple priorities and ensure deadlines are met in a fast-paced environment.

· Proficiency in MS Office 365 and other relevant software applications.

· Proven drafting, negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

· Strong ethical standards and a high level of personal integrity.

· Effective problem-solving skills with the ability to assess risks, develop effective solutions, and to exercise good judgement / initiative in a variety of situations.

· Confidence in presenting / communicating to groups of people and / or senior leadership.

· Detail-oriented with strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.

· Ability to quickly establish personal credibility and to develop and maintain effective strategic relationships.

· Receptive to feedback and demonstrates flexibility, curiosity, and an ability to learn.

· Enthusiasm, commitment and motivation for work, and the achievement results

· Demonstrated ability to manage and take ownership of strategic relationships, fostering deeper partnerships across the organisation.

Additional Information:

Ways of working: As part of our Agile ways of working you will be required to work approximately 2 days a week from the office, which is subject to the requirements of the role and the business needs. Flexibility on where you work can be split between working from home and our office.

Roles that are classed as part of the Agile ways of working are not able to claim any costs for Mileage/Travel on Public Transport, Accommodation and/or Meals.  This includes when attending the office for various meetings/events.

Our Office: Our office is at 3 Riverside, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, CB21 6AD. 

Salary: Circa £65,000 per annum, plus benefits

Please download the Vacancy Pack on our website for more information.

The closing date for applications is the 16th February 2025, with interviews likely to be held week commencing the 24th February 2025. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date. We would encourage you to submit your application at the earliest opportunity, as on occasion we may have to bring forward the interview date and/or the closing date based on the needs of the business. Although a possibility, this will only happen in exceptional circumstances. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date.

We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential.  We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures, in particular those from ethnic minority backgrounds who are currently under-represented.  Any offer of employment is however subject to you having the right to work in the UK.

As part of our commitment to being an inclusive employer and ensuring fairness and consistency in our selection process, we will handle your CV and application with the utmost confidentiality. While we strive to anonymise your CV where possible, there are certain sections, such as the application question, that cannot be fully anonymised. We kindly ask that you remove any personal information, including your name, when answering the application question. The hiring panel will not have access to your personal details, such as your name and address, until you are invited for an interview. Should you require any adjustments at either the application or interview stage, please contact us via our website.

How to apply: Please create an online account using our Online Recruitment Platform which can be accessed through our Job Vacancies page. You will be able to attach your CV to your application and track the status of your application.

About Alzheimer’s Research UK: Alzheimer's Research UK is the UK's leading dementia research charity. Our mission is to accelerate progress towards a cure.  Today 1 in 2 people will be impacted by dementia, either through caring for a loved one, developing it themselves or tragically both. But there is hope. 

There has never been a more important and exciting time in dementia research. With promising new drugs in clinical trials that slow the progression of the diseases that cause it, and revolutionary new ways to diagnose them on the horizon, we are now at a tipping point. Working with the smartest minds globally and across the UK, with industry and academia, Alzheimer’s Research UK is uniquely placed to invest in the very best research identifying barriers to a cure and knocking them down so that there are more and better treatments for everyone with dementia. For the first time in history, we can see a future where people with dementia can get a swift and accurate diagnosis, and effective treatments that could slow or even stop their disease. We stand for everyone affected by dementia. We stand for a cure. 

In 2024, we were incredibly proud to be awarded a 3-star accreditation by Best Companies which recognises ‘World Class’ levels of workplace engagement. This is the second consecutive time; we have been awarded a Best Companies 3-star accreditation.

We were also listed in the prestigious Best Companies lists:

· 18th in the 100 Best Large Companies to Work For in the UK.

· 10th in the 50 Best Companies to Work For in the East of England.

· 2nd in the 30 Best Companies to Work For in the Charity Sector.

In addition, we were also shortlisted for a special award recognising the work undertaken on reducing our environmental impact.

In 2021, we were awarded the HR Management award by The Charity Times for our Wellbeing initiatives throughout the pandemic.

In 2020, we demonstrated our commitment to changing the way we think and act about mental health in the workplace and signed the Time to Change Employer Pledge. 

ARUK really does look after its people, where you will be able to add value and make a difference. 

To view further details about working for us and the benefits we offer, please visit Alzheimer’s Research UK

Meningitis Research Foundation (MRF) is seeking an experienced and visionary Director of Research to lead our research initiatives. The ideal candidate will have experience in infectious diseases, a strong background in biomedical research, international collaboration and a proven track record of managing and leading research projects. This is a key leadership role that will drive our efforts to prevent and cure meningitis and septicaemia through innovative research and collaboration. Initially managing a small team, the Director will lead on growing the team to support the new research strategy launching in 2025.

This role will report directly in to the charities CEO.

Lead responsibilities

• Strategy – development and implementation.
• Association of Medical Research Charities (AMRC) accredited grant awards and management process including research funding rounds; grant awards; grant management and all aspects of reporting for the research portfolio and impact of projects funded by MRF.
• Recruitment, development and management of MRFs Scientific Advisory Panel and their participation in the grant awards process.
• Externally funded research projects including concept development, partner identification, writing, developing and where necessary producing peer-reviewed academic papers of relevance to MRFs strategy and shorter briefing documents and presentations as required.
• MRF’s in-house research including concept development, writing, developing and produce peer-reviewed academic papers of relevance to MRFs strategy and shorter briefing documents and presentations as required.
• Research environment horizon scanning to appropriately brief internal teams on new developments in the field that are relevant to their work.
• Secretariat of the Global Meningitis Genome Partnership (GMGP).
• Representing MRF as a collaborative patient representative partner on external academic research projects and panels.
• Conferences and Meetings- Working with external experts, on the development and agreement of suitable agenda, speakers and formats for the MRF Scientific Research conference.
• Representing MRF at key research conferences and events, and seek opportunities to present latest in-house research and projects.
• Policy integration. Working with the Head of Health Insights and Policy to ensure latest research evidence is fully integrated into MRFs policy strategy, framework and activities.
• Responding to external consultations that are focused on research and the research environment with relevance to meningitis.
• Represent MRF on relevant sector bodies and working groups; present to high level external stakeholders about our work; represent beneficiaries of our work to various bodies including national and international health bodies; industry; researchers, public health officials and civil society representatives; deputising for CEO as required.
• Media. Support communications teams on research content for media use; represent MRF in the media as required.
• Report quarterly to CEO on performance of the Directorate and prepare papers and presentations as required for committee and full Board meetings.
• Develop and recommend an annual budget and operating plan for the Directorate to the CEO, monitor and report on implementation throughout the year. Liaise with the Director of Finance and Administration to ensure accurate and timely production of management accounts; inputs to development of other departments; and uphold the financial policies and procedures of the charity.
• Being an active member of the senior leadership team, supporting other departments and teams to achieve their goals and helping to communicate progress of the charity with staff and volunteers.

Experience required

• Published researcher or research management in health or scientific environment/field.
• Research grant management and portfolio oversight.
• Presented multiple times at international research conferences.
• Extensive relevant networks in research and academic community.
• Recent experience of being an organisation’s spokesperson on research activities, including to the media.
• Have represented a research unit or equivalent body on inter-organisational working groups of relevance to public health.
• Extensive experience leading teams including budget setting and strategic planning.
• Strategy development and implementation.
• Senior external stakeholder management.
• Representation or accreditation with or on a professional body relevant to the area of subject expertise.
• Budget management experience relevant to Directorate scale and strategy.
• Have presented to Boards/Senior stakeholders internally and externally on multiple occasions.
• Lead, developed and managed a team/department/organisation/operation >10 people.
• A PhD in a relevant discipline or relevant equivalent life experience.
• A second European language, ideally French, desirable.

Key Competencies for all Directors at MRF

Leadership behaviours

• Strategy: Develops and executes strategic plans within directorate.
• Leadership: Leads and aligns directorate goals with organisational objectives.
• Management: Monitors and enhances directorate performance.
• Finances: Develops, recommends and optimizes directorate budgets.
• Supervision: Guides and mentors heads of departments & wider teams.
• Team contribution: Ensures directorate operates as a highly effective team aligned to values.
• Communicating progress: Regularly reports progress to the CEO, SLT and board.

Values

• Evidence-led: Bases directorate strategies on data and research.
• Integrity: Upholds ethical practices within directorate.
• Determination: Steadfast in achieving directorate goals.
• Passionate Advocate: Promotes the mission of the charity confidently to internal and external stakeholders with conviction.
• Collaboration: Identifies partnership opportunities; encourages cross-directorate and departmental cooperation.
• Compassion: Role models compassion for beneficiaries and staff within directorate.

Application Process

Interested candidates are invited to submit their CV with a cover letter detailing their relevant experience and interest in the position. CV’s sent through without a covering letter will not be considered.

Applications should be sent to Kate Gill by 5pm on Friday 21st February 2025.

Candidates wishing to have an informal exploratory conversation before applying can also contact Kate to set up a call with Vinny Smith.

Equal Opportunities

Applications are particularly encouraged from candidates that may previously have, or feel like they have, experienced being excluded from generally advertised roles due to their gender, ethnicity, disability status or sexual orientation.

Safeguarding

Meningitis Research Foundation is committed to safeguarding, and any advertised role will require references, confirmation of your identity and your right to work in the UK. Following receipt of satisfactory references, the successful candidate will be able to start work soon after receiving their offer of employment.

Meningitis Research Foundation is an international health charity headquartered in the UK, driven by a passionate mission to prevent the devastating impact of meningitis. Founded by individuals whose lives were profoundly affected by meningitis, we are dedicated to enabling positive change by uniting people and knowledge to save lives. The Confederation of Meningitis Organisations (CoMO) is our worldwide network of people and groups who are driven by a shared purpose to defeat meningitis. By coming together to share their diverse experience and expertise, they are a formidable global force against this life-threatening condition.

The role

A key role in our Research team, the Research Projects Manager will be responsible for developing and managing our research projects and grants programme, in alignment with our new research strategy. As part of this, you will manage our genomics programme of research, which includes an exciting multi-stakeholder, international project, designed to understand barriers and opportunities to use of whole genome sequencing in low- and middle-income countries.

This role reports to the Director of Research.

Responsibilities

Research project management

• Manage our internally driven research projects including scoping, planning, designing, budgeting and reporting on activity to internal and external stakeholders.
• Liaise with research partners and funders on research project development and activity.
• Connect research projects to colleagues working on related activities in Insights and Policy, and Communications and Engagement.
• Brief Fundraising teams on research projects and progress.

Research grants

• Project Manage the launch of grants rounds and co-ordination of peer review procedures, in alignment with the UK Association of Medical Research Charities (AMRC) requirements.
• Lead on the development and maintenance of all application, peer review and grant management procedures.
• Project Manage administering post award processing, monitoring, reporting and governance of successful grant applications.

Research collaboration

• Support the Director of Research to identify and respond to relevant meningitis research consultations in the UK and internationally.
• Work with Director of Research to identify, monitor and respond to developments in the UK and international research funding environment and help draft grant applications.
• Collaborate with Health Insights and Policy colleagues, to enable research to inform MRF’s policy positions.

Research strategy

• In collaboration with the Head of Research, support implementation of our research strategy.

Build an approach to strengthen involvement of those with lived experience in research

• Identify and develop opportunities for those with lived experience with MRF funded and externally funded research
• Work with the Director of Research to develop a Patient and Public Involvement strategy.

Qualifications & Experience

• A degree in relevant biomedical science or equivalent.
• Previous experience of performing peer review and grant management, ideally in line with Association of Medical Research Charity (AMRC) requirements.
• Strong knowledge of UK research funding environment.
• Demonstrable management skills or a professional project management qualification.
• Project Budget management experience.
• Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Ability to work independently
• Excellent time management skills and ability to prioritise competing demands

Key competencies

Leadership behaviours

• Strategy: Aligns team goals with organizational strategy.
• Leadership: Motivates and leads team members.
• Management: Manages day-to-day operations and projects.
• Finances: Monitors and manages team budget expenditure.
• Supervision: Supervises senior executives and executives.
• Team contribution: Promotes team engagement and productivity
• Communicating progress: Reports team progress to senior manager or Director.

Values

• Evidence-led: Uses evidence to inform team activities.
• Integrity: Practices honesty and ethical behaviour.
• Determination: Committed to achieving team goals.
• Passionate Advocate: Advocates for the Foundation’s vision and mission.
• Collaboration: Encourages team collaboration and support.
• Compassion: Ensures a supportive environment for patients and team members.

What we offer you

• £35,000 to £39,999 per annum, depending on qualifications and experience,
• 2% employee pension contribution + 6% employer pension contribution.
• Flexible working arrangements between work and home. Fully remote working also available.
• 25 days holiday

Application Process

Interested candidates are invited to submit their CV with a cover letter detailing their relevant experience and interest in the position. CV’s sent through without a covering letter will not be considered.

Applications should be sent to Kate Gill by 5pm on Friday 21st  February 2025.

Candidates wishing to have an informal exploratory conversation before applying can also contact Kate to set up a call with Vinny Smith.

Equal Opportunities

Applications are particularly encouraged from candidates that may previously have, or feel like they have, experienced being excluded from generally advertised roles due to their gender, ethnicity, disability status or sexual orientation.

Safeguarding

Meningitis Research Foundation is committed to safeguarding, and any advertised role will require references, confirmation of your identity and your right to work in the UK. Following receipt of satisfactory references, the successful candidate will be able to start work soon after receiving their offer of employment.

About the role:

The Legal Officer works closely with the Legal Team (Legal Director and Legal and Parliamentary Officer) to support our policy and advocacy work and with the Senior Legal Projects Manager in a key role to coordinate strategic legal advice and litigation. The Legal Officer also works closely with the rest of the ILPA Secretariat, including the Chief Executive, Content and Digital Channels Manager, Training Officer, and with Trustees, ILPA and SLAC members, the SLAC Steering Committee  and co-convenors of ILPA’s Working Groups.

You will regularly analyse information, including legal and practice updates, and disseminate information orally and in writing to the public and to ILPA members. You will assist with answering ILPA members’ legal, policy and practice-based queries, raising systemic issues with government departments as appropriate, and provide flexible, tailored, technical and practical support for practitioners and non-practitioners, who include public bodies, professional organisations and non-governmental organisations (NGOs). You will assist in the preparation of legal policy and parliamentary briefings, and ILPA’s responses to consultations, calls for evidence, other official submissions and correspondence with government bodies. You will also help represent ILPA in meetings and work collaboratively with colleagues across the sector in pursuit of ILPA’s influencing aims. 

Additionally, you will support the organisation and running of ILPA’s thematic Working Groups, which provide a valuable forum for ILPA members to share best practice and discuss issues of current importance, assisting with agenda-setting, presenting updates, following-up on action points, and preparing meeting summaries. The overall aim of these activities is to improve immigration, asylum and nationality law, policy and practice. You are not expected to have policy experience, as you will gain knowledge and exposure to policy work through this role and we hope to see you grow in the role and take on greater policy responsibility during your time at ILPA, accompanied by corresponding salary increments where deemed appropriate as part of our salary review process. 

You will work with the Senior Legal Projects Manager to develop partnerships with NGOs and legal professionals around the UK. You will coordinate the general and regional Strategic Legal Advice Committee (SLAC) meetings. These meetings will be held online, across the UK. Each SLAC group will hold four meetings per year as well as emergency meetings where necessary. You will be responsible for the minute taking of all SLAC meetings. You will work with the Senior Legal Projects Manager to set member-led meeting agendas, identify member training needs, facilitate training, update the SLAC website, and feed in to monitoring and evaluation of the project. You will be responsible for coordinating SLAC Steering Committee meetings.

About you:

The position would suit a self-motivated individual who is passionate about the sector and is looking to further their career in immigration policy or advocacy, including by making the transition from immigration practice to work on immigration policy and strategic legal advice and litigation coordination. 

You may be keen to be working at the heart of the systemic changes following Brexit, recent significant legislation, including the Nationality and Borders Act 2022, Illegal Migration Act 2023, Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Act 2024, attempts to remove people seeking asylum in the UK to Rwanda, government initiatives to “reduce net migration” such as the increased Minimum Income Requirement for family visas, and the recently introduced Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill. 

You will have an interest in strategic litigation and how it can be used to protect and promote the rights of those discriminated against on the basis of their migration status. You will be passionate about being involved in the coordination of a unique and exciting project that brings the third and legal sector together in developing strategic litigation. 

Given the complexity of immigration, asylum and nationality law, we do not expect applicants to have expertise in every area, but an understanding of the law and excellent critical analysis skills are key. Any successful applicant will be able to attend ILPA training to further their knowledge.

Main responsibilities

1. To liaise, work with, and gather evidence from members to support ILPA’s influencing work and to assist with knowledge-sharing in the sector;
2. To assist the Legal Team to influence law and policies through written and oral advocacy;
3. To coordinate and contribute to internal and external meetings, which may have a range of attendees including ILPA members, SLAC members, government officials, parliamentarians, experts, lawyers, and other external organisations and individuals;
4. To provide support to ILPA’s thematic working groups, and SLAC meetings, including by attending evening meetings, agenda-setting, participating, drafting minutes/meeting summaries, and working with the Secretariat, working group co-convenors, and SLAC Steering Committee to take forward agreed actions;
5. To handle queries related to the Legal Team, and SLAC work sent by members and others where appropriate, such as by forwarding these on to relevant individuals and drafting responses;
6. To monitor, identify, store, organise, interrogate, retrieve and disseminate information, including legal and policy developments, relevant to ILPA’s work;
7. To assist with facilitating SLAC training events,  communicating with SLAC members and feed into the monitoring and evaluation of SLAC; and 
8. To support internal and external communications and updates. 

Person Specification

Essential knowledge, experience, skills, and qualities:

1. A law degree, postgraduate qualification in law, or other relevant qualification in law; 
2. Experience of working in or with immigration, asylum and nationality law in the UK;
3. Experience of building and managing effective professional relationships with a range of people, with demonstrable ability to communicate effectively in challenging situations;
4. Good legal knowledge, skills and judgment, including:
   a) an ability to navigate and understand the Immigration Rules and Government guidance,
   b) a general understanding of UKVI processes, and
   c) an ability to clearly communicate legal and technical information orally and in writing;
5. Excellent attention to detail;
6. Excellent planning, coordination, organisational, time management, strategic problem-solving and independent working skills, including:
   a) an ability to take a proactive approach to independent working,
   b) managing workstreams effectively, 
   c) confidently taking responsibility for tasks and decisions, 
   d) meeting tight deadlines, and
   e) taking a calm and diligent approach to problem solving;
7. Commitment to the principles of a non-racist, non-sexist, just, and equitable system of immigration, asylum and nationality law; 
8. Commitment to the principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion, and taking a proactive approach to espousing these principles; and
9. Commitment to be a champion of ILPA by positively encouraging your team, identifying and encouraging opportunities for growth, and celebrating success.

About the Immigration Law Practitioners’ Association

The Immigration Law Practitioners’ Association (ILPA) is a charity and a professional association the majority of whose members are barristers, solicitors, advocates and IAA (previously OISC) regulated advisers practising in all aspects of immigration, asylum and nationality law. Academics, non-governmental organisations and individuals with a substantial interest in the law are also members.

Founded in 1984 by leading practitioners in the field, ILPA exists to promote and improve advice and representation in immigration, asylum and nationality law, through an extensive programme of training and disseminating information and by providing research and opinion that draw on the experiences of members. ILPA is represented on numerous government, official and non-governmental advisory groups and regularly provides evidence to parliamentary and official inquiries.

The Secretariat does not give advice to members of the public on individual cases but works closely with members to ensure that they are enabled to do their best for their clients. It runs ILPA’s busy training programme and produces a wide range of information for members and non-members.

The objectives of ILPA are:

• To promote the advising and representation of immigrants;
• To provide information to members and others on domestic and European immigration, asylum and nationality law; and
• To secure a non-racist, non-sexist, just and equitable system of immigration, asylum and nationality law practice.

ILPA is an equal opportunities employer. We acknowledge that the legal and charitable sector can be less accessible to people from minoritised or racialised communities and people from less privileged socio-economic backgrounds. We are committed to unsettling the status quo. In this role you will wear many hats and we recognise that the successful candidate may not have all the skills and experience listed in the personal specification. We welcome an application from you if you can see yourself in this role and have an appetite to gain new skills, knowledge, and experience. We encourage applications from individuals who have lived experience of the UK immigration or asylum systems, or the hostile environment.

We also encourage applications from people who have previously unsuccessfully applied for roles at ILPA. We will consider each application afresh. We appreciate that individuals are always learning, growing, and adding to their knowledge and experience.

About the ILPA Team 

You would be joining a small team, of around 10 team members. Under our current hybrid work policy, we have one anchor day (currently a Tuesday), in which you will be expected to work from an office setting in London, together with Team members living in England. The rest of the time you will ordinarily work remotely or wherever conferences or meetings might take place.

Reports to: Legal and Parliamentary Officer and Senior Legal Projects Manager

Annual leave: 25 days per annum, plus bank holidays and the week between Christmas and New Year off 

Working Hours: 35 hours per week, plus 1 hour lunch break (NB. evening working is required to attend any scheduled evening meetings, which ordinarily finish no later than 7pm). Very occasional travel within the UK will be required to attend meetings.

Start date: As soon as possible

Application deadline: 9:00am on Monday, 24 February 2025

Interviews will be held on 10 and 11 March 2025. Shortlisted candidates will be notified by Monday, 3 March 2025.

Applications from individuals only – no agencies.

Rainbow Migration, the longest-running charity in Europe dedicated to supporting LGBTQI+ people through the asylum and immigration system, is recruiting a Legal Officer to advise and help improve the representation of LGBTQI+ people seeking asylum and help change the asylum and immigration system to one that treats everyone with compassion, dignity and respect.

We are looking for a qualified solicitor or barrister with valid practising certificate, or already accredited to Level 3 IAA (OISC), with two years’ experience in providing advice and representation in asylum including working in legal aid.

You will be responsible for the day-to-day delivery of the legal advice service. Under the guidance of our Legal Service Manager, you will also build capacity amongst legal representatives by designing and delivering training, giving second tier advice and developing and coordinating a network of practitioners working in this area. You will use the knowledge you gain in this role to help deliver Rainbow Migration’s policy work, such as inputting into policy papers and meeting with partner organisations when required.

We will also consider applications from people who do not want to do the policy elements of the job, but to instead focus on first and second tier advice. Please mention in your covering letter if you are applying for this option.

This is a unique opportunity to build on your experience as a lawyer to improve representation across the sector and create change in government policy and practice. You will be supported to develop as a specialist lawyer and in your policy skills.

Responsibilities will include:

· Deliver one-off advice to adult LGBTQI+ people seeking asylum and work with colleagues to refer them to quality legal aid and pro bono lawyers

· Provide casework assistance e.g. helping to prepare witness statements, making referrals to other specialist organisations and taking other urgent steps (whilst not representing service users or maintaining a caseload)

· Provide occasional advice (within competence) on other issues affecting asylum and partnership service users such as asylum support, legal aid, trafficking, family reunion or community care

· Deliver second tier advice to the legal representatives of LGBTQI+ people seeking asylum and other charities and professionals

· Work with the Legal Service Manager to design and deliver training to lawyers, NGOs and other professionals

· Write blogs and articles on asylum and immigration policy and legislation as they apply to LGBTQI+ people

· Contribute to policy and briefing papers

· Assist with preparing guidelines and briefings for legal services and pro bono lawyers

The Legal Officer will not be providing direct legal representation of service users. However, the role includes substantive advice and casework within the scope of legal support and referrals for our service users, as well as merits testing and second tier advice.

Rainbow Migration’s vision is that LGBTQI+ people can settle in the UK and lead fulfilling lives. Our values are: 

· Safety: We believe everyone should be safe from persecution and safe to be themselves. We strive to create a safe workplace culture, and we place importance on the wellbeing of everyone involved with Rainbow Migration. 

· Integrity: We are thorough and honest in everything we do, and we take responsibility for our actions. We want to be accountable to our communities and those who support us. 

· Belonging: We welcome and include all LGBTQI+ people, and we celebrate and value their range of experience in terms of gender, religion, race, age, disability status and class. We try to remove obstacles to participation, champion equality and promote a sense of family or home through our services. 

· Respect: We believe that every person is equal and deserves the same level of courtesy, care, and attention. We respect the rights, wishes and feelings of our service users, and campaign for their rights to be respected as they go through the asylum and immigration system. 

At Rainbow Migration, we don’t just accept difference – we celebrate it, we support it, and we thrive on it. We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer and we value diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, or disability status. We consider all qualified applicants, consistent with any legal requirements. 

We welcome applications from candidates with lived experience of going through the UK asylum or immigration system or who have been subject to immigration control. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for anyone considered as disabled under the Equality Act 2010 if they meet the necessary criteria in the person specification.

Owing to the nature of the work, the successful applicant will be required at the point of conditional job offer to disclose all spent and unspent criminal records and subsequently to undergo an enhanced DBS check. See our website for more information.

Contract Type: Permanent.

Hours: Full-time (35 hours per week). Working part-time or job-sharing will be considered. Occasional work in the evenings and at weekends may be required but with plenty of notice. Rainbow Migration encourages staff to maintain a good work life balance and has a TOIL system in place.

Salary: Starting at £40,175, with potential annual step increases up to £44,868 (pro-rata for part-time employees), plus statutory employer’s pension contribution. In addition to an annual step increase, the trustees consider giving a separate inflationary increase every April. 

Location: Remote or from Rainbow Migration’s offices which are based in London between Vauxhall and the Oval. Hybrid working will also be considered. The successful candidate could work from anywhere in the UK but would be expected to occasionally travel to London and other parts of the country for meetings and events. At the time of posting this advert, none of our staff are going into the office every day. Please contact us if you have any questions.

Annual Leave: 25 days per year rising after 24 months by 1 day after each year of service to maximum of 28 days per year (pro rata if working part-time).

Benefits:

· Two days of wellbeing leave to be taken at short notice in each calendar year (pro rata for part-time staff)

· Enhanced parental leave and pay

· Full pay for jury service (up to four weeks), compassionate leave (up to two weeks) and dependents leave (up to four days, pro rata for part-time staff)

· Separate salary step and inflationary increases considered every year

· TOIL system

· Hybrid working policy, including possibility of working abroad for 10 working days (pro rata for part-time staff) each year

· Policy on staff loans or salary advances for difficult times

· Work laptop and mobile phone

· Training and learning opportunities

· Employee assistance programme which includes counselling service, wellness advice, legal and money advice

· Clinical supervision for staff delivering services

How to apply

Closing date: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Interview date:  Interviews will be scheduled on an ongoing basis in response to applications received.

Please read the job description and person specification. If you have any questions about the role or would like to find out more before applying, then you can contact the line manager via the email in the JD.

Please send:

1. Your CV

2. A written statement (max 1,000 words). Instead of a written statement you may submit your statement by video or audio recording (max 8 minutes)

to the email address in the JD.

3. Optional: please use this link to complete a monitoring form (link in the JD)

In your statement, please:

1. Give examples of how you meet the person specification. In addition to what is on your CV, we want to hear about any relevant skills and experience that demonstrate how you meet the necessary criteria for the role, and if you meet any of the advantageous criteria. Skills and experience could be from training, volunteering, interests or life experience

2. Confirm if you wish to be considered under the guaranteed interview scheme for anyone considered as disabled under the Equality Act 2010 (physical or mental impairment that has a ‘substantial’ and ‘long-term’ effect on your ability to do normal daily activities)

3. State how many hours a week you wish to work and if you have a preferred pattern, or if you are applying as part of a job-share

4. If you do not want to do the policy elements of the job and instead focus on first and second tier advice, please mention this.

By submitting an application, you:

1. Confirm that you have the right to work in the UK and will produce the necessary documentation if you are offered this post.

2. Declare that to the best of your knowledge and belief, the information provided with your application is true and correct and that you understand that any false information or statement given will justify the dismissal from Rainbow Migration if appointed.

3. Accept that, if successful, you will be required to disclose all spent and unspent criminal records at the point of conditional job and subsequently to undergo an enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check.

We are proud to be a member of the Experts by Experience Employment Network (please see the JD for web address), which aims to create a charitable sector that is led by people with lived experience of the asylum and immigration system. As part of this network, we challenge the one-size-fits-all approach in our employment practices, and respect personal circumstances and needs of people with lived experience. Please feel free to use information and resources at the website in the JD which may help in preparing your job application.

Privacy notice

If you apply for this role, the information you provide will be processed according to Rainbow Migration's privacy policy (link in the JD). Rainbow Migration will not share your information with any third parties unless part of the recruitment process or are legally required to do so. By applying, you are permitting Rainbow Migration to access and use the information for recruitment purposes. Rainbow Migration will store your data for 12 months after the conclusion of the recruitment campaign. Monitoring information is kept separately and is pseudonymised to avoid identification of applicants. It is amalgamated for statistical purposes and the original data is then deleted after six months.

Our busy Legal & Operations team, part of Support Services based at Baptist House Didcot, are looking for a Paralegal to join them to support their work with Baptist churches, associations, and colleges.

This is a new role within the Legal and Operations team, and the Paralegal will be supporting the Legal Services Manager with a wide and varied caseload of work.

About us

We’re Breast Cancer Now, the research and support charity. We’re the place to turn to for anything and everything to do with breast cancer. However you’re experiencing breast cancer, we’re here. 

The brightest minds in breast cancer research are here. Making life-saving research happen in labs across the UK and Ireland. Support services, trustworthy breast cancer information and specialist nurses are here. Ready to support you whenever you need it. Dedicated campaigners are here. Fighting for the best possible treatment, services and care for anyone affected by breast cancer.

About the role

We are looking for an assistant legal counsel to join our legal compliance and governance team. Your work will include negotiating and drafting commercial contracts, and advice on data protection, fundraising and charity law. We can provide some support and training if any of these compliance areas are new to you. You should be able to work co-operatively as part of our team and with our internal stakeholders.

About you

You’ll be a qualified lawyer with at least 2 years PQE in commercial contract law. With  good quality drafting skills and good communication skills, you’ll  be able to manage a busy workload in a timely fashion and give pragmatic advice allowing you to resolve legals issues, where appropriate, effectively and efficiently. Experience of working in-house in a charity would be an advantage.

Job description and benefits

Please download the job description and our attractive benefits package.

Primary location of role and hybrid working

This role is primarily based in our London office. Our hybrid working model allows you to work up to 2 days per week at home.

When applying

We hope you choose to apply for this role. To support your application, you’ll be asked to submit your anonymised CV and a supporting statement. Please refer to the essential criteria on the person specification and clearly provide as much information as you can with examples, to demonstrate how and where you meet the criteria. If you’ve any immediate questions please contact Breast Cancer Now recruitment. 

Our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion

We’re committed to promoting equity, valuing diversity and creating an inclusive environment – for everyone who works for us, works with us, supports us and who we support.

Closing date

Monday 10 February 2025 at 09:00am

We reserve the right to close this advert early subject to volume of applicants. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

Interview date

Week commencing Monday 17 February 2025

Legal Counsel

These are exciting times for the charity, and we now have an excellent opportunity for a solution oriented and highly professional self-starter with outstanding diplomatic and interpersonal skills to join the busy Legal and Governance Department.

If you are a qualified Solicitor or Legal Executive in England & Wales, then apply today!

Position: In-House Legal Counsel

Location: Devon/hybrid (onsite attendance currently anticipated to be 1-2 days per week)

Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week, 08.30-16.30, Monday-Friday

Salary: £52,000 per annum

Contract: 12-month fixed term contract starting as soon as possible

Closing date: 6 March 2025. We reserve the right to close this vacancy before the advertised date and therefore encourage early submissions.

About the Role

As Legal Counsel, you will play a pivotal role in identifying, managing, and mitigating legal risks to protect the Charity’s interests and uphold its reputation. Working as part of A dedicated legal team, you will be responsible for delivering a high-quality legal service that supports the Charity’s strategic objectives and operational needs, providing expert legal advice and guidance across a wide range of matters, ensuring compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and best practice.

Your principal duties and responsibilities will include: 

• Providing accurate, relevant and timely advice to internal clients across a broad range of legal topics

• Identifying and assessing legal risks across the Charity’s activities and developing effective strategies to mitigate them.

• Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating a wide range of legal agreements, including grant-funding agreements, research and collaboration agreements, Memorandums of Understanding and other bespoke contracts.

• Liaising closely with external law firms, maintain contract management processes to ensure strong control of costs, compliance and the provision of high-quality and cost-effective legal support. 

• Advising on governance matters, ensuring compliance with relevant laws, including health and safety, safeguarding, company law, and fundraising regulations.

• Keeping up to date with legal developments, identifying areas for improvement within the Charity.

• Supporting the development of more efficient legal processes and workflows to enhance operational effectiveness.

About You

You will be a qualified Solicitor or Legal Executive in England & Wales, with substantial post qualification experience in commercial / contract law, either in-house or with a reputable law firm.

You will also have:

• Strong business acumen with ability to assess and manage legal risk and offer commercial/practical advice.

• Strong technical legal skills, including research, analysis, and drafting.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to effectively explain legal points and their impact on the Charity clearly and concisely to stakeholders. 

• Willingness to learn and step outside of your comfort zone regarding the type of legal work you carry out. 

What you get in return…

• Competitive pension.

• Life assurance.

• 31 days holiday (including Bank holidays), rising to 34 with each full year of service.

• Wellbeing team.

• Recorded Pilates classes.

• Long service awards.

• Healthshield plan

• Free parking.

• Subsidised restaurant and shop.

About the Organisation

The sanctuary is one of the UK’s largest international animal welfare charities, currently supporting projects in over 35 countries worldwide, working for a world where donkeys and mules live free from suffering and their contribution to humanity is fully valued.

The Charity is a Disability Confident Employer, committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable people (children and adults) and expects all staff and volunteers to undertake this commitment. Applicants will be subject to safer recruitment processes, including an application for a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check where required for the post.

You may also have experience in areas such as Solicitor, Legal Executive, Legal Counsel, Paralegal, Junior Solicitor, Junior Legal Executive, Junior Legal Counsel, Paralegal Lead, Legal Officer, Lead Solicitor, In House Solicitor, In House Legal Executive, In House Legal Counsel, In House Paralegal. #INDNFP

PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation

Circa £70,000 per annum[SP1] [UA2] 

Permanent

Part home/Part office (London) based

UNICEF ensures more of the world’s children are vaccinated, educated and protected than any other organisation. We have done more to influence laws and policies to help protect children than anyone else. We get things done. And we’re not going to stop until the world is a safe place for all our children.

This is a unique opportunity to join the UK Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK) as our General Legal Adviser.

Our General Legal Adviser will support the Head of Legal, working across a broad range of the charity’s activities and functions. You will be an integral part of our legal function, providing expert legal advice and guidance on risk; negotiating and advising on key contracts; and advising and supporting on issues relating to charity law and legal terms required by UNICEF. The Legal Adviser is responsible for providing UNICEF UK with accurate, relevant and timely advice and support.

We are looking for a qualified lawyer, with a valid UK practising certificate, that is experienced in working within a legal team (either in-house or in private practice) and would like to use their skills to make a difference in our small but dynamic legal team.

Act now and visit the website via the apply button to apply online.

Closing date: 10am, Thursday 13 February 2025.

Interview 1 Date: Thursday 27 February 2025 via video conferencing (MS Teams).

Interview 2 Date (if selected for a second-round interview): Wednesday 5 March 2025 in-person at UNICEF UK, 1 Westfield London E20 1HZ.

In return, we offer:

· excellent pay and benefits (including flexible working, generous annual leave and pension, big brand discounts and wellbeing tools)

· outstanding training and learning opportunities and the support to flourish in your role

· impressive open plan office space and facilities on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

· an open culture and workplace with colleagues who share our values, enjoy their work and are motivated to do their utmost for children.

· the opportunity to work in a leading children’s organisation making a difference to children around the world

Our application process: We use a system called "Applied" that anonymises your responses and focuses on your actual skills that are relevant to this role. This benefits you by giving you a greater chance of expressing your skills in this objective selection process.

We anticipate most colleagues will work at least one or two days a week in the office at 1 Westfield London E20 1HZ and the rest of the time from home.  We will happily discuss other flexible options to suit your circumstances.

We particularly welcome applications from black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, LGBTQ+ candidates, disabled candidates, and from men, because we would like to increase the representation of these groups at this level at UNICEF UK. We want to do this because we know greater diversity will lead to even greater results for children.

UNICEF UK promotes equality, diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We make employment decisions by matching business needs with skills and experience of candidates, irrespective of age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation.

We welcome a conversation about your flexible working requirements, personal growth, and promoting a workplace where you can be yourself and achieve success based only on your merit.

The successful candidate will be required to apply for a criminal records check. A criminal record will not necessarily bar you from working with us. This will depend on the nature of the role and the circumstances of your offences.

We only accept online applications as this saves us money, making more funds available for us to help ensure children’s rights.

If you require support in completing the online form or an application form in an alternative format, please contact the Supporter Care line during office hours.

If you do not hear from us within 14 days of the closing date, please assume your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion. Please note that we only provide feedback to shortlisted candidates.

Registered Charity Nos. 1072612 (England and Wales) SC043677 (Scotland)

About the Role: We are seeking a dedicated Paralegal to work in a team of public lawyers focusing on systemic challenges within our Bristol Public Law team. This is a unique opportunity to work on groundbreaking cases that challenge unlawful government policies, defend migrants’ rights, address human trafficking, and confront unlawful detention. You will also work on civil claims and assist in cases of public and private law discrimination and collaborate with campaigning groups to fight against unjust decisions made by public bodies.

Why Join DPG? At DPG, we are committed to creating a workplace where our team members can thrive. We offer flexible working arrangements and study leave to support your ongoing professional development. Our aim is to develop our staff, fostering a supportive environment where you can grow your career.

Our Values: Central to our mission is the belief in equality and justice. We are dedicated to building a diverse team and encourage applications from all qualified candidates, particularly those from minoritized backgrounds. We are proud to be an inclusive workplace, welcoming applications regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, or belief.

Details of the person specification can be found in the application form on our website, and the job description can also be found there.  DPGs aims and values can also be found on our website.

How to Apply:  Be sure to include the job reference 2025/02/BRPL in the subject line of your email, once you have completed the application form which you can download from our website.

• Closing Date: 9.00am Wednesday 19th February 2025
• Interviews: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a skills test and interview during the week commencing 3rd March 2025.
• Start Date: May 2025 (flexibility to accommodate study and/or current notice periods is possible)

Don’t miss this chance to be part of a team that’s committed to making a difference. Apply now and contribute to the pursuit of justice at DPG.

About CRIN

This is who we are and what we are fighting for

 CRIN is a creative human rights organisation focused on children’s rights. We press for rights - not charity - and campaign for a genuine shift in how governments and societies view and treat children. Our goal is a world where the human rights of children and young people are recognised, respected, and enforced, and where every rights violation has a remedy.

We work on many issues, from the survival of the planet to sexual violence, to civil and political rights, to the right to bodily integrity, privacy, expression, and information, to how children’s rights are affected by new technology.

We advocate for international institutions like the United Nations, as well as governments and professionals, to adopt strong children’s rights policies. We undertake legal research and analysis and propose better policies where these are lacking. We recognise the importance of activism at all levels and support the campaigning of organisations led by people with lived experience. Through critical thinking, artwork, and our vision for the future, we encourage people to think differently about the world we live in.

About the role

This is the campaign you will be working on 

One of the key issues we work on is accountability for sexual violence against children in institutions in Latin America, which aims to challenge impunity and improve access to justice for victims and survivors. Combating sexual violence against children globally has been a core part of CRIN’s work for more than a decade, and from this experience we see common challenges across the most systemic and entrenched forms of institutional abuse and exploitation: secrecy, cover-ups, abuse of power, stigma, shame, and impunity.

To successfully challenge this status quo, we have looked at the experiences of countries like Ireland and Australia, which were some of the first countries where survivors mobilised to demand and secure legal reforms to improve access to justice and establish national inquiries into child sexual abuse which prompted other policy reforms. In an effort to support and strengthen similar survivor-led activism elsewhere in the world, since 2019 CRIN has worked alongside grassroots organisations in Latin America led by adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Our focus has been to support their national campaigning that challenges impunity for abuse committed in the region’s Catholic Church, but we have since expanded the scope of our work to cover institutional settings more broadly.

CRIN’s added value in the campaign includes providing much-needed financial support and capacity building, research support, international and legal advocacy and helping to expand partnerships. By working with survivor-led networks, we aim to encourage their development across the region so that governments can no longer ignore their demands for truth, justice, reforms, and reparations.

This is who we are looking for…

We are looking for someone to coordinate the end-to-end delivery of the campaign. The focus of the role is on project and budget management, strategy planning and implementation, and partnership building. But given the generalist nature of campaigning, you may at times conduct advocacy support, media outreach, research and analysis, and event coordination.

You would work alongside the Legal Advocacy and Campaign Coordinator, as well as part of the core project team comprising the Co-Directors and the Legal and Policy Coordinator.

Your responsibilities will include:

● Leading the delivery of CRIN’s campaign supporting grassroots organisations in Latin America to end impunity for child sexual abuse in institutional settings.

● Building and maintaining trust-based partnerships with grassroots survivor-led networks in Latin America, ensuring engagement is anti-colonial, trauma-informed and participatory.

● Building partnerships with key allies, such as civil society groups, journalists, academics, legal experts, consultants and funders.

● Managing the campaign budget and related administrative tasks, including partnership contracts and sub-granting. 

● Providing advocacy, research, and administrative support to partners, as needed. 

● Organising capacity-building events to support partners’ organisational development.

● Providing occasional research and writing support to colleagues in the production of advocacy materials, including submissions to human rights bodies and research reports.

● Managing project communications, including updating the campaign webpage, leading on media outreach, coordinating the production of research reports and translating all project materials. 

● Working with CRIN’s communications staff to create content for the website, social media, and newsletter.

● Managing the campaign’s Monitoring and Evaluation, recording, and reporting actions, deliverables, and learnings, including coordinating annual progress reports to our funder.

● Participating in regular project meetings to discuss developments, address any issues and plan the next stages of the work.

● Participating in organisation-wide activities such as regular team meetings and collective decision-making.

We are looking for someone with the following attributes:

● Professional experience or interest in issues related to access to justice for survivors of childhood sexual violence.

● Professional experience or interest in working with grassroots organisations and/or survivor-led organisations.

● Native-level fluency in written and spoken Spanish and English. 

● Experience in project and budget management. 

● Ability to cultivate partnerships with diverse stakeholders, including grassroots organisations, activists with lived experience, civil society organisations, international NGOs, journalists, and lawmakers.

● Knowledge of or interest in participatory approaches to partnerships and decision-making, as well as an understanding of how oppression can manifest in the issues we work on (and how we work as an international NGO) and a keen interest in how we can implement an anti-oppression approach.

● Motivated, with strong organisational skills and ability to manage one’s own work (including while remote-working).

● Ability to think strategically and critically.

● Ability to thrive in a small but diverse international team, with a strong commitment to anti-discrimination, diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The following would also be an advantage:

● Previous experience of working at an NGO and/or in human rights campaigning. 

● Comparative knowledge of Latin America’s cultural, legislative and policy context/s.

● Experience in media work.

● Knowledge of national and international human rights mechanisms.

We know that we may sometimes be overcome with feelings of self-doubt when reading job descriptions. Even if you feel you may not hold all the qualifications and experience listed here, we strongly encourage you to apply if you are excited by our vision and the contribution you could make to the role.

 What it is like working with us

 We are a small team of around 18 people. We take pride in our CRIN Code and try to approach our work and relationships with open minds, humility, and respect. This helps us foster greater creativity, breadth of experience, and personal growth among our staff, and it’s essential to our success as an organisation.

Our staff and consultants work remotely and are located mainly in Europe at the moment, but we are committed to continuing to build a team that reflects the world’s diversity of skills, experiences, cultures, and perspectives. While we have lines of accountability, we also aim to have a relatively flat structure whereby everyone receives support from and is accountable to each other in a number of ways.

To find out more about who works at CRIN visit our website.

Application process

CRIN is committed to building a diverse team, and we encourage applications from underrepresented groups and consider candidates who are suitably qualified and eligible regardless of sex, gender identity, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, education or professional experience.

How to apply

We are not big fans of formulaic responses. We want to know who you are, how you think, what your principles are and why you want to work with us.

Please send a CV (no more than 2 pages) and complete both of the following statements in no more than 250 words each:

● “Improving access to justice is important for child sexual abuse survivors because…”

● “The key to building trust-based partnerships with grassroots survivor-led organisations is…”

These can be sent to our jobs email with the subject line “Campaign Coordinator”. Only those applications which send in all materials will be considered. Please bear with us, as we are a small team.

If you have any questions, or if you are a job seeker with a disability and would like someone to contact you about individualised application support, please contact us.

We're looking for a Policy and Research Manager to join our Campaigns team, to develop and deliver policy interventions and research projects to influence the Government and to create real change for women seeking safety.

Policy and Research Manager
Location: Old Street, London, at least 2 days per week in the office
Accountable to: Campaigns Lead, Women for Refugee Women
Hours: 35 hours per week*, some flexibility required at evenings and weekends
*Please note that these are the contractual hours for this role. However, WRW currently operates a 4-day work week meaning staff can opt into working 32 hours per week spread across 4 days, workload allowing.
Salary: £36,400 per annum
Length of contract: Permanent

Main purpose of role
To develop policy goals and recommendations in line with Women for Refugee Women’s (WRW) overarching campaigns strategy to improve the lives of women seeking asylum in the UK; to develop and deliver policy interventions such as policy briefings, evidence for Parliamentary committees, responses to inquiries and consultations; to plan and carry out research projects for influencing purposes, ensuring that these are informed by and co-delivered with women in WRW’s network.

Job Description
Strategy: To develop and set feasible policy goals over the short, medium and long term, in line with WRW’s overarching campaigns strategy to improve the lives of women seeking asylum, in consultation with the Campaigns team, and the women in WRW’s network; to provide regular analysis on the external context and assess the opportunities for bringing about policy change in order to inform the strategic direction of the Campaigns team.

Policy: To lead the drafting of policy documents including briefings for MPs, civil servants and other influencing targets, evidence for Parliamentary committees, responses to inquiries and consultations, etc.

Research: To identify research opportunities to advance WRW’s policy goals; to plan and write up research projects for influencing opportunities, ensuring that these are informed by and co-delivered with women in WRW’s network, and carry them out in partnership with the other staff of WRW and our campaigns groups.

Influencing: To identify influencing avenues to advance our campaigning goals, and work with the Campaigns team to develop and maintain relationships with civil servants, parliamentarians, opinion-formers and other stakeholders.

Law: To explore the potential for use of the law in achieving our policy goals, including working on possible strategic litigation in partnership with other organisations and with lawyers.

Communications and media: To work closely with the Campaigns team to give input and advice on WRW’s communications through mainstream and social media to ensure that these are accurate and well-targeted; to act as a spokesperson for WRW’s campaigns, including on media platforms and at events, panels and other platforms to reach target audiences.

Partnerships: To work closely with policy colleagues in the sector to share intel, pool expertise, and advance joint goals; to represent WRW at conferences and forums, consolidating and initiating partnerships with partner organisations and other stakeholders in order to drive forward our policy work.

Support to refugee women: To ensure that our policy work is informed by the experiences of women seeking asylum; to ensure that the women in WRW’s network have an opportunity to shape WRW’s policy goals and are kept abreast of developments in our campaign to achieve these.

Line Management: This role currently has no line management responsibilities but this may be introduced to the role at a later date, depending on the resourcing of the Campaigns team.

Organisational input
Grassroots: to work with the Grassroots team in ensuring that the women in WRW’s network understand the policy and research function of the organisation and are updated regularly about our progress towards achieving these.

Monitoring and evaluation: to assist with the evaluation and monitoring of WRW’s policy work and its effectiveness.

Support with fundraising: to support the work of the Grants Fundraising Manager through contributing to grants applications and reports.

Policy compliance: to stay well informed about WRW’s existing policies on issues such as safeguarding, confidentiality and data protection, to ensure that all policy and research observes the letter and spirit of such policies, and to keep up to date in developments in best practice in these areas, so that WRW remains a well-run and effective organisation.

Organisational: to participate in and support activities such as staff meetings and workshops aimed at building a stronger organisation.

WRW is a small busy team that responds quickly to situations that are often fast moving and unpredictable. As a member of this team you would be expected to be flexible in the way that you work and to help out with other duties where appropriate.

Person Specification
Essential

• Thorough understanding of the UK asylum process and how it affects women and its political and legal context.
• Knowledge and understanding of social research methods, including qualitative methods and participatory action approaches.
• Experience of producing compelling policy and research documents, preferably in a political, legal or campaigning environment.
• Thorough understanding of the UK parliamentary processes and how a charity can lobby for change.
• Understanding of how strategic litigation can be used to create policy change.
• Commitment to social justice and a demonstrable passion for creating change on behalf of women or other marginalised groups.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and to work co-operatively as part of a small team.
• Commitment to equal opportunities and the rights of women seeking asylum.

Desirable

• Experience of using strategic litigation to create policy change.
• Experience of working with the UK Parliament.
• Experience of dealing with the mainstream media and using social media.
• Experience of working directly with women who have survived violence or other vulnerable groups.

Women for Refugee Women particularly welcomes applications from individuals with experience of migration and/ or seeking asylum.

We're looking for a Science Advisor to help ensure that the best available science is used to support climate litigation around the world.

ABOUT THE ROLE. CLN is a non-profit foundation that supports partners across the world to drive stronger climate action through litigation against high-emitting actors. We are now looking for a new Science Advisor to play a critical role in bridging the gap between science and law in the context of climate litigation, including by supporting the translation of key legal concepts and standards into actionable remedies in climate cases.  This is a new post that offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to climate action as we approach 2030, and to shape this new post within CLN. Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting legal teams on how best available science can be integrated to support and strengthen their legal and advocacy strategies, and advising on effective ways to present scientific data to national and regional courts.

• Assessing scientific and evidentiary gaps in ongoing and future climate cases, and working with CLN staff and external partners – including academic and scientific institutions – to explore ways to address those gaps in a manner consistent with legal principles.

• Supporting the translation of legal standards into scientific standards. For instance, translating the legal standards presented by the European Court of Human Rights in the KlimaSeniorinnen case into relevant national carbon budget reports, and exploring the implications of key principles of international environmental law to States’ or corporations’ mitigation efforts.

• Acting as a bridge between the legal and scientific communities.
  • Developing and maintaining relationships with leading climate scientists, academic institutions, and researchers.
  • Facilitating collaborations to ensure that legal teams have access to top-tier scientific expertise to support their cases.
  • Identifying opportunities to communicate the needs of the climate litigation community to relevant scientists (i.e. at conferences, workshops, expert meetings).

• Conducting ongoing research and preparing clear, concise briefing notes and explanations on key scientific issues for CLN staff and external partners.

Given this is a new role in the organisation and the evolving nature of the climate litigation field, we expect that there may be changes to how this role works in practice once the right candidate is in post.

OUR IDEAL CANDIDATE

This is an exciting new role and we're keen to hear from people with relevant skills and experience coupled with a passion for climate justice.

Essential Experience, Skills, and Knowledge:

• Academic qualifications: Undergraduate degree in climate science, environmental science, geoscience, or a related field, with a strong academic record.
• Technical expertise: Proficiency in data analysis and modelling using R and/or Python.
• Ability to build and maintain a network of contacts in the scientific community, fostering collaborations and partnerships.
• Excellent science communication skills, with the ability to convey complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences, including legal professionals and non-specialists.
• Research and analytical skills: Strong research, analytical, and drafting skills, with the ability to distil complex scientific information into clear, actionable insights.
• Ability to think ‘outside of the box’: Willingness to work alongside a broad range of experts to explore how we can apply existing knowledge and expertise to solve novel legal problems.
• Personal attributes: Highly motivated, reliable, and able to work independently while maintaining attention to detail and meeting deadlines.
• Strong alignment with CLN’s values and commitment to our vision and mission, and a commitment to building a trust-based, inclusive and empowering organisation.
• Fluent in English, with excellent written and verbal communication skills.

 Desirable Experience, Skills, and Knowledge:

• PhD or equivalent professional experience in climate science or a relevant discipline.
• Work experience: 3–6 years of post-university experience (or equivalent academic experience) in the field of climate change, climate policy, or a related area.
• Existing scientific network: Established network of scientific and academic contacts, particularly those working on climate change and environmental issues.
• Multilingual abilities: Proficiency in languages other than English is desirable, though not essential.

We know that some candidates will not apply for a role unless they feel they are 100% qualified. If you feel you meet at least some of the essential criteria above, we still encourage you to apply. 

WHY JOIN CLN?

• The unique opportunity to work for a mission-driven organisation at the cutting edge of climate litigation, and contribute to the climate justice movement worldwide.
• Opportunity to work with a dynamic team of highly skilled professionals who combine their expertise with a passion to make a difference.
• The space to shape and continuously develop your role.
• A flexible hybrid work environment, with opportunities for temporary remote work.

PLEASE NOTE:

This role can be based in either London or Amsterdam.

Salary is from £42,500 / €50,000 depending on experience and qualifications.

We are advertising this role at 0.6FTE on a fixed term contract, but are happy to consider additional hours and/or a consultancy contract for the right candidate.

All candidates must have existing right to work in the UK or the Netherlands.  We cannot sponsor visas.