Policy and Communications Officer

About the Role

Are you passionate about driving real change in public health policy? Do you want to play a pivotal role in Scotland’s journey to ending HIV transmission and eliminating Hepatitis C? If so, we want to hear from you!

Waverley Care is Scotland’s leading HIV and Hepatitis C charity, and we are looking for a Policy & Communications Officer for an initial six-month contract.  This is an exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of policy development and advocacy, ensuring Scotland remains on track to achieve zero new HIV transmission by 2030.

As the Policy & Communications Officer, you’ll be instrumental in shaping and delivering policy initiatives that support the Scottish Government’s commitments to ending HIV stigma and improving the lives of those living with HIV.

You will work proactively across the charity to ensure consistent policy messages and to inform influencing activities by producing briefings, consultation responses, and other communications content.

You will:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with MSPs, civil servants, and key stakeholders to drive Scotland’s progress toward eliminating Hepatitis C, achieving zero new HIV transmission by 2030 and ending HIV stigma.
• Produce high-quality internal and external briefings, consultation responses, press releases, media statements, social media posts and online content that align with Waverley Care’s policy positions.
• Represent Waverley Care at events, meetings, and networks, actively advancing the organisation’s policy objectives and supporting the Fast-Track Cities Scotland initiative.
• Plan and coordinate National Consortium meetings, including setting agendas, securing speakers, and taking minutes.
• Maintain and update databases of contacts and activities, ensuring accurate tracking and reporting of policy and public affairs work, including compliance with Scotland’s Lobbying Register.
• Support and engage Waverley Care’s Community Panel, ensuring communications are inclusive and reflective of lived experiences and elevate the voices of those affected by blood-borne viruses.
• Develop evidence-based policy positions and provide strategic advice to support Scottish Government targets.
• Stay informed and proactive in monitoring policy developments related to blood-borne viruses (BBVs) and key public health initiatives in Scotland.
• Produce high-quality, evidence-based research reports that support Waverley Care’s policy objectives, influencing decision-makers and contributing to meaningful change.

About You

We are looking for a dynamic and motivated individual who:

• Has experience working with government and local authorities, with a strong understanding of how policy is implemented and influences decision-making.
• Thrives on relationship-building and can engage confidently with policymakers, stakeholders, and the media.
• Has a proven track record in developing and implementing policy and public affairs strategies.
• Is an excellent communicator with outstanding written and verbal skills.
• Is confident in writing consultation responses, supporting social media campaigns, and delivering impactful press statements.
• Can provide strategic advice and policy recommendations to support public health initiatives.

Why Join Us?

This is a unique opportunity to be part of a progressive organisation at a pivotal moment in Scotland’s public health journey. You’ll have the chance to influence real change, working alongside passionate colleagues committed to making a lasting impact on people’s lives.

We offer a supportive working environment with hybrid working options, professional development opportunities and a generous annual leave entitlement.

Application notes

If you’re excited by this opportunity and believe you have the skills and experience we’re looking for, we’d love to hear from you!

To apply, please submit your CV along with a cover letter explaining how your experience aligns with the job specifications to recruitment@waverleycare.org

If you have any questions, please contact Laura Brodie, Marketing and Communications Manager, at laura.brodie@waverleycare.org

Application Deadline: Midnight, Thursday, 20th March 2025.