Policy and Public Affairs Officer

The Policy & Public Affairs Officer will work as part of a team to identify themes and issues from our casework and turn them into impactful projects, capable of influencing key stakeholders, including Parliament, to deliver improvements in public services.
They will engage with internal and external stakeholders to deliver a range of projects and activities. Provide policy, public affairs and research support to the team and wider Directorate. This will include briefing the Ombudsman and Chief Executive on their engagement with senior stakeholders.

+ experience in engaging with a range of internal and external stakeholders to deliver organisational outcomes
+ experience supporting the delivery of policy, public affairs, or research projects
+ experience analysing complex written material and identifying and summarising key issues
+ excellent communication skills including verbal and written and able to tailor their approach to different audiences and influence effectively.
We recognise the value of lived experience. If you have experience of complaining about any public body, we strongly encourage you to apply., Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.
People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.

At The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman, we independently investigate complaints about UK government departments, other public organisations and the NHS in England. We believe complaints have the power to reveal the truth, create lasting change and inspire a better relationship between people and public services
Our culture is built on trust, collaboration, and mutual respect. You’ll join a team where your voice matters, your contributions are valued, and your growth is supported.
We know the importance of work-life balance, so we offer flexible working to help you thrive both at work and home. Whether it’s hybrid working or flexible hours, we’re open to what works for you.
If you’re looking for a role where you can make a real difference while working in a supportive and forward-thinking organisation, we’d love to hear from you.

+ Civil Service Pension scheme (minimum 26.6 percent employer contribution)
+ 5 days annual leave
+ hybrid working: 40 percent office based
+ flexible working
+ access to a free, confidential Employee Assistance Programme offering 24/7 advice and support from professionals and counsellors
+ comprehensive learning and development programme
+ employee discount scheme across hundreds of retailers
+ bicycle loan scheme
+ season ticket loan
+ gym membership subsidy
+ paid for professional memberships
+ eye test reimbursement.
Inclusion & Wellbeing
Equality, diversity, inclusion, and wellbeing are vital to the way we work and our culture. We want our colleagues feel included, valued, and supported at work. It is essential that we are representative and accessible for the people who work here and those who use our service.
Actions we take to embed this include:
+ an anonymised shortlisting process to make sure it is fair and unbiased
+ monitoring the demographic trends in our workforce and making measured, sustained efforts to improve our diversity at all levels
+ providing wellbeing support and opportunities for personal and professional development for all colleagues
+ creating spaces for connection and engagement through our employee network groups and social clubs
+ engaging in regular inclusion learning to enhance the cultural competency of our organisation.