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Job description

You will work with our membership to inform and influence national and local decision-making and help us shape messages that amplify the voice of people who experience health inequalities. Ideally, you will have strong written and verbal communication skills and be able to demonstrate a good understanding of the Government and decision-making structures in NI and how to influence them. You will have an avid interest in current affairs, an unwavering commitment to health inequalities and social justice and the ability to produce accurate and persuasive copy. .

Responsibilities

• Keeping up to date with the latest policy and research developments, summarising policy documents, strategies and evidence on health inequalities, the social determinants of health, prevention and early intervention.
• Engaging our members and communities to share what we learn; build skills and knowledge to develop inclusive public policies and strategies.
• Raising awareness, at all levels of decision making, of need to take concerted action across sectors to tackle the root causes of inequality and improve health and wellbeing outcomes for all.
• Writing and reviewing copy for the website, social media, blogs, news releases and reports.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• Third level qualification in a relevant discipline e.g., Social Policy, Research, Politics and Public Affairs or similar or demonstrable experience and research, analytical, communication and writing skills in a policy to practice environment.
• Demonstrated experience of policy analysis and preparation of publications/briefings/ public policy consultation responses, Engaging communities and policy makers, and campaigning for change to achieve positive policy outcomes.
• Strong information, research and analytical skills, with the ability to assimilate complex ideas and issues, and to identify appropriate policy positions and key messages
• Demonstrated communication and influencing skills with an ability to present complex information in a straightforward and accessible way, and effectively engage with a diverse range of people and listen to their views.
• Demonstrated editing and writing skills with the ability to produce clear messages and compelling copy.
• Good project management skills, including the ability to organise workload to achieve agreed targets and manage competing priorities.
• Excellent networking, relationship building, and negotiating skills, with the ability to inspire others, as well as the confidence and capability to work with external organisations.
• A strong understanding of the public policy environment, political institutions, government and decision making in NI and the social and economic landscape including the issues and challenges relevant to the community and voluntary sector.
• Commitment to, and knowledge of, involving those with lived experience in developing and delivering policy to improve their social conditions and overall wellbeing.
• Strong IT skills including sound knowledge of Microsoft Office, information systems, willingness to learn new systems
• Competence using a wide variety of digital and social media and other communications tools to promote policy work
• Access to a form of transport that will allow the post holder to fulfil the travel requirements of the job and be willing to travel.
• Flexible approach, as weekend and evening work may be required.

Further Information

Work Time: 9am - 5pm. Please submit completed and signed application forms by email to: marionohare@cdhn.org by Monday 20 February 2023 @5pm