New Vacancy - Policy Lead

Policy Lead: We invite applications for the Policy Lead post from those who share our commitment to supporting the legal and human rights of people whose lives are affected by drug use and drug policy.

Salary: £ 31,371 to £35,934 p.a. (based on experience) + pension contribution

Contract Type: Permanent

Holidays: 29 days plus public holidays

Location: London
 
Closing time & date: 13 March 2020 at 5pm
 
Interviews to be held: Week commencing 16 March 2020
 
Start date: As soon as available

 

Release is a charity providing front-line services to people who use drugs. This contact brings unrivalled in-depth knowledge of the problems caused by the present legislation and how this could be significantly reduced. Our campaigns are derived from the experiences of our clients, so we advocate for the reform of the UK drug laws to bring about a fair and compassionate legal framework for drug use in our society. Release is committed to promoting equal opportunities.

For this job, Release will only consider applications from those who already have the right to live and work in the UK. This is because, in order for Release to apply successfully for a work permit, we need to show that there are no suitable candidates who are normally resident in the UK or are nationals of the European Economic area (EU States plus Norway and Iceland). See the Home Office Immigration & Nationality Directorate (www.ind.homeoffice.gov.uk) for information on the UK Government's immigration policy.

 

As a member of our dynamic team, based in London, your responsibilities will include:

  • Development and implementation of Release’s research programme;
  • Producing briefings and consultation responses;
  • Developing contacts and liaising with external stakeholders;
  • Attending external meetings on behalf of Release;
  • Working with the Executive Director on funding for the policy and communications area of the organisation;
  • Communications support including engaging with new and traditional media, website management, and working closely with our communications strategist to disseminate policy work.

Requirements for the post includes:

  • At least 4 years’ working in a relevant field (drug policy; criminal justice; public health). 
  • Experience of producing high quality research.
  • Experience of working with external agencies.

 

To apply for the position, please send a current CV and a covering letter/supporting statement detailing why you are suitable for the position to recruitment@release.org.uk or post at Release, 61 Mansell Street, London E1 8AN. Applicants will receive a confirmation email of receipt. The successful candidate will have a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check upon appointment, a criminal conviction will not necessarily bar someone from appointment - this would depend on the type of offence, circumstances and length of time since the offence was committed - and we welcome applications from people who have been through the criminal justice system. 

Applicants are strongly advised to use the supporting statement as the opportunity to relate their skills to the job description and person specification.

For an informal and confidential discussion regarding the position, please contact the Executive Director – Niamh Eastwood on 020 7324 2980 or email niamh@release.org.uk

 

Application Check List

*Please Note: Total documents NOT to exceed six A4 sides

  • Current Curriculum Vitae
  • Covering Letter (Supporting Statement) - This your the opportunity to explain how your skills, experience and qualifications are relevant for the role

Good luck!