Mencap is the leading voice of learning disability. Everything we do is about valuing and supporting people with a learning disability, and their families and carers.
An exciting opportunity has arisen to join our friendly Communications and Influencing team in Belfast. Mencap wants to change peoples’ attitudes to learning disability, and this post holder is critical to making this happen.
At Mencap, we value a diverse and inclusive workplace and we intentionally plan for the success of our colleagues in everything we do. We welcome applications from everyone, so come as you are and join us. Together we are Mencap!
The Senior Research and Policy Officer will:
- Write policy briefing papers and communication materials
- Represent Mencap at external policy meetings and events
- Initiate and deliver successful campaigns
- Support research and evaluation projects
- Actively involve people with a learning disability in our campaigns and influencing
Candidate:
The ideal candidate for this position will be part of Policy, Research and Campaigns within the Marketing, Communications and Influencing team in Northern Ireland. They will work closely with colleagues across Mencap to deliver influencing activities in line with the organisation’s strategic priorities. In doing so they will support people with a learning disability, their families and local groups in policy and campaigns activities and influence political representatives and decision-makers. Due to the area covered, applicants are required to either drive or have access to transport. Ability to work flexible hours in accordance with the needs of the post. This will include occasional weekend work and overnight stays.
Key Skills and Experiences:
- Professional credibility, creativity and innovation.
- Effective interpersonal, negotiation and co-ordination skills.
- Building positive external and internal relationships. Advocacy and networking.
- Effective data analysis and management.
- Understanding of UK and NI political system, and decision makers at a Northern Ireland and local level.
Please note that this role will be closing for shortlisting on Wednesday 22nd February, with all interviews being conducted on Friday 3rd March. For more information about this position please contact Jonathan Craig in the Northern Ireland team who will be happy to help.
We are proud to be a Disability Confident Leader and welcome applicants with disabilities to apply for all roles with us. To find out more about the scheme please visit the direct gov website.
There is something for everyone at Mencap, please use the following link to see some of our amazing benefits you receive when you work for us.
https://vimeo.com/272326041/ac6fdbd7b9