Young Lives vs Cancer
Change lives in a life-changing career When a child or young person is diagnosed with cancer, their whole world can feel like it s falling apart. Independence is taken and confidence is stolen. Stability no longer exists. The future suddenly feels uncertain. The impact of cancer on young lives is more than medical. And that impact can be felt by entire family. That s why we exist. Our specialist social workers help children and young people with cancer and their families navigate the emotional and practical impact of cancer. We remove barriers, solve problems and prioritise wellbeing. And we stop at nothing to make their voices heard and their unique needs understood, so they can get the right care and support at the right time About the role We re looking for a Policy and Public Affairs Manager with experience in delivering high-impact, voice-led policy, public affairs and campaigning work to join our Policy and Influencing team. We have a growing and ambitious commitment to creating positive change in the health and care system to achieve the change children and young people with cancer, and their families, need across the UK. This means amplifying the voices of young cancer patients and delivering evidence-based campaigns that make change happen. The Policy and Public Affairs Manager is responsible for ensuring our policy and influencing work has maximum impact through our public affairs and campaigning across the UK. This work will be co-created with children and young people at every appropriate opportunity. Building relationships is a crucial part of your role and you will support the Head of Policy and Influencing to deliver Young Lives vs Cancer s policy, influencing and voice work to be sector leading and develop a range of external relationships to inform our work in this area. Our Policy, Influencing and Voice Team build the evidence base we need to develop sound policy positions, works to influence the system for children and young people with cancer and their families, so we can change experiences of having cancer and ensure children and young people s voices are heard. The team is a part of the Innovation, Policy and Systems Change Directorate, which synthesises our policy, research, campaigning, voice, innovation and systems change work. This role is subject to a criminal record check. In the event of a successful application a basic criminal record check will be completed. A previous conviction is not necessarily a barrier to employment. We encourage qualified applicants to apply, and we will consider each case individually. What will I be doing? No two days are the same at Young Lives vs Cancer. So, summarising your day to day isn t easy. Here are some of the main things you ll be doing, but you ll find more details in the job description. Monitoring and analysing developments and trends in policy affecting children and young people with cancer, to identify relevant policy issues across the UK at an early stage and to advise on and help shape the charity s response and public position. Working with colleagues across the team to develop policy positions that are relevant, up to date and can be used to support wider campaigning and influencing activities to engage our supporters, across health, social care, benefits and welfare reform, education issues and other relevant issues. Planning, managing and implementing public affairs plans and engagement based on policy priorities and effectiveness, liaising with external partners and coalitions, including designing and delivering our proactive engagement with elected representatives, monitoring the public affairs environment and co-ordinating reactive and proactive activities across the UK. Delivering a campaigns programme which builds on are previous successes, ensuring our campaigns and public affairs programmes work alongside with and alongside children, young people and families. Working with the Head of Policy and Influencing to support Young Lives vs Cancer s engagement, communications and influence with policymakers, elected representatives and other key stakeholders. Developing external partnerships and networks to strengthen policy and public affairs activity What do I need? The key skills we re looking for in this role are: Ability to deliver strategic policy and public affairs activity based on robust evidence, from development to evaluation. Successfully influence politicians and key decision-makers to achieve strategic goals at different levels of government, through managing the delivery of successful public affairs campaigns Overseeing work that involves beneficiaries in policy and influencing work, demonstrate effective influencing skills Awareness and understanding of and/or experience of working in the policy issues facing young people with cancer across all four UK nations, and the wider policy and influencing and/or campaigning landscape Demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills at a variety of levels to a wide range of audiences, in particular a political audience Be an organised, systematic and a confident worker - managing a fast paced and reactive workload alongside longer-term strategic work whilst demonstrating attention to detail and accuracy What will I gain? For people to reach their full potential, they need the right environment. As a member of Team Young Lives, you ll be made to feel supported, valued and appreciated. Here s how we do it: Flexible working: we re open to working hours outside of 9 - 5 and we can talk through your flexibility requirements at interview stage Wellbeing, Thinking & Growth Days: four days a year to to step back from the day-to-day and focus on your own learning and development Generous annual leave allowance Great family/caring leave entitlements Enhanced pension Access to our employee savings scheme To find out more about our benefits package, have a look on our website. Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging At Young Lives vs Cancer, we recognise that opportunities for too many people remain a condition of their sex, ethnicity, class, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation or a combination. This has never been acceptable to us as an organisation. We don t just accept difference, we value it, celebrate it, nurture it and we thrive because of it. We re on a journey to be reflective of the diverse children, young people and families we support. We know we aren t there yet, and we re passionately committed to taking actions and making changes to be a truly diverse, inclusive and equitable organisation. This includes taking anti-oppressive action and removing barriers in our recruitment practices. We particularly welcome applications from members of minoritised communities. Our Diversity, Inclusion, Equity and Belonging strategy will tell you more. To ensure fairness and consistency to select the best candidate for this role, all our applications are anonymised up until an interview has been confirmed. We recognise the benefits of AI, but if you're considering using it to submit your application, we encourage you to reflect on the value AI adds. AI tools often lack the personal touch and authenticity that set candidates apart. We want to hear your unique perspective, experiences, and skills, so we encourage you to tell us about your skills and experiences in your own voice. Accessibility We re committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and we ll always aim to be as accommodating as possible. Please let us know in your application form of any adjustments or access requirements we could make to help you with the application process and interview.
Change lives in a life-changing career When a child or young person is diagnosed with cancer, their whole world can feel like it s falling apart. Independence is taken and confidence is stolen. Stability no longer exists. The future suddenly feels uncertain. The impact of cancer on young lives is more than medical. And that impact can be felt by entire family. That s why we exist. Our specialist social workers help children and young people with cancer and their families navigate the emotional and practical impact of cancer. We remove barriers, solve problems and prioritise wellbeing. And we stop at nothing to make their voices heard and their unique needs understood, so they can get the right care and support at the right time About the role We re looking for a Policy and Public Affairs Manager with experience in delivering high-impact, voice-led policy, public affairs and campaigning work to join our Policy and Influencing team. We have a growing and ambitious commitment to creating positive change in the health and care system to achieve the change children and young people with cancer, and their families, need across the UK. This means amplifying the voices of young cancer patients and delivering evidence-based campaigns that make change happen. The Policy and Public Affairs Manager is responsible for ensuring our policy and influencing work has maximum impact through our public affairs and campaigning across the UK. This work will be co-created with children and young people at every appropriate opportunity. Building relationships is a crucial part of your role and you will support the Head of Policy and Influencing to deliver Young Lives vs Cancer s policy, influencing and voice work to be sector leading and develop a range of external relationships to inform our work in this area. Our Policy, Influencing and Voice Team build the evidence base we need to develop sound policy positions, works to influence the system for children and young people with cancer and their families, so we can change experiences of having cancer and ensure children and young people s voices are heard. The team is a part of the Innovation, Policy and Systems Change Directorate, which synthesises our policy, research, campaigning, voice, innovation and systems change work. This role is subject to a criminal record check. In the event of a successful application a basic criminal record check will be completed. A previous conviction is not necessarily a barrier to employment. We encourage qualified applicants to apply, and we will consider each case individually. What will I be doing? No two days are the same at Young Lives vs Cancer. So, summarising your day to day isn t easy. Here are some of the main things you ll be doing, but you ll find more details in the job description. Monitoring and analysing developments and trends in policy affecting children and young people with cancer, to identify relevant policy issues across the UK at an early stage and to advise on and help shape the charity s response and public position. Working with colleagues across the team to develop policy positions that are relevant, up to date and can be used to support wider campaigning and influencing activities to engage our supporters, across health, social care, benefits and welfare reform, education issues and other relevant issues. Planning, managing and implementing public affairs plans and engagement based on policy priorities and effectiveness, liaising with external partners and coalitions, including designing and delivering our proactive engagement with elected representatives, monitoring the public affairs environment and co-ordinating reactive and proactive activities across the UK. Delivering a campaigns programme which builds on are previous successes, ensuring our campaigns and public affairs programmes work alongside with and alongside children, young people and families. Working with the Head of Policy and Influencing to support Young Lives vs Cancer s engagement, communications and influence with policymakers, elected representatives and other key stakeholders. Developing external partnerships and networks to strengthen policy and public affairs activity What do I need? The key skills we re looking for in this role are: Ability to deliver strategic policy and public affairs activity based on robust evidence, from development to evaluation. Successfully influence politicians and key decision-makers to achieve strategic goals at different levels of government, through managing the delivery of successful public affairs campaigns Overseeing work that involves beneficiaries in policy and influencing work, demonstrate effective influencing skills Awareness and understanding of and/or experience of working in the policy issues facing young people with cancer across all four UK nations, and the wider policy and influencing and/or campaigning landscape Demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills at a variety of levels to a wide range of audiences, in particular a political audience Be an organised, systematic and a confident worker - managing a fast paced and reactive workload alongside longer-term strategic work whilst demonstrating attention to detail and accuracy What will I gain? For people to reach their full potential, they need the right environment. As a member of Team Young Lives, you ll be made to feel supported, valued and appreciated. Here s how we do it: Flexible working: we re open to working hours outside of 9 - 5 and we can talk through your flexibility requirements at interview stage Wellbeing, Thinking & Growth Days: four days a year to to step back from the day-to-day and focus on your own learning and development Generous annual leave allowance Great family/caring leave entitlements Enhanced pension Access to our employee savings scheme To find out more about our benefits package, have a look on our website. Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging At Young Lives vs Cancer, we recognise that opportunities for too many people remain a condition of their sex, ethnicity, class, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation or a combination. This has never been acceptable to us as an organisation. We don t just accept difference, we value it, celebrate it, nurture it and we thrive because of it. We re on a journey to be reflective of the diverse children, young people and families we support. We know we aren t there yet, and we re passionately committed to taking actions and making changes to be a truly diverse, inclusive and equitable organisation. This includes taking anti-oppressive action and removing barriers in our recruitment practices. We particularly welcome applications from members of minoritised communities. Our Diversity, Inclusion, Equity and Belonging strategy will tell you more. To ensure fairness and consistency to select the best candidate for this role, all our applications are anonymised up until an interview has been confirmed. We recognise the benefits of AI, but if you're considering using it to submit your application, we encourage you to reflect on the value AI adds. AI tools often lack the personal touch and authenticity that set candidates apart. We want to hear your unique perspective, experiences, and skills, so we encourage you to tell us about your skills and experiences in your own voice. Accessibility We re committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and we ll always aim to be as accommodating as possible. Please let us know in your application form of any adjustments or access requirements we could make to help you with the application process and interview.
Young Lives vs Cancer
Location: Leeds General Infirmary / St James Hospital Interview date: 23rd April 2026 Change lives in a life-changing career When a child or young person is diagnosed with cancer, their whole world can feel like it s falling apart. Independence is taken and confidence is stolen. Stability no longer exists. The future suddenly feels uncertain. The impact of cancer on young lives is more than medical. And that impact can be felt by entire family. That s why we exist. Our specialist social workers help children and young people with cancer and their families navigate the emotional and practical impact of cancer. We remove barriers, solve problems and prioritise wellbeing. And we stop at nothing to make their voices heard and their unique needs understood, so they can get the right care and support at the right time About the role We are looking for an experienced Social Worker to join our Leeds Team supporting children and young people diagnosed with cancer. We pride ourselves on delivering the highest quality support tailored to the needs of the children and young people and their families. The work we do is rewarding but also complex and demanding. You will be part of a close-knit Young Lives vs Cancer social work team, working with an established NHS multi-disciplinary team and services in the community. This role is predominantly site-based with an element of occasional working from home as agreed with the line manager. Your contractual base will be both Home and Hospital. This post is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check. A previous conviction is not necessarily a barrier to employment. We encourage qualified applicants to apply, and we will consider each case individually. About you You will be committed to delivering high quality social work support to promote the best outcomes for the children, young people and families we work with. You will need to be resourceful and resilient. You will have a positive attitude and be willing to embrace difference. As part of the wider Young Lives vs Cancer team you will actively engage with the work of the charity and welcome opportunities to get involved. You will have: A recognised Social Worker qualification and current registration with Social Work England/ Scottish Social Services Council/Social Care Wales/Northern Ireland Social Care Council Experience working with children, young people and their families/carers in a social care setting. Experience of working in a multi-disciplinary environment, ideally in an NHS setting. Sound knowledge of child and young people development. An understanding of the impact of serious illness for children, young people and their families. Excellent interpersonal skills. What will I gain? For people to reach their full potential, they need the right environment. As a member of Team Young Lives, you ll be made to feel supported, valued and appreciated. Here s how we do it: Flexible working: we re open to working hours outside of 9 - 5 and we can talk through your flexibility requirements at interview stage Wellbeing, Thinking & Growth Days: four days a year to step back from the day-to-day and focus on your own learning and development Generous annual leave allowance Great family/caring leave entitlements Enhanced pension Access to our employee savings scheme To find out more about our benefits package, have a look on our website. Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging At Young Lives vs Cancer, we recognise that opportunities for too many people remain a condition of their sex, ethnicity, class, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation or a combination. This has never been acceptable to us as an organisation. We don t just accept difference, we value it, celebrate it, nurture it and we thrive because of it. We re on a journey to be reflective of the diverse children, young people and families we support. We know we aren t there yet, and we re passionately committed to taking actions and making changes to be a truly diverse, inclusive and equitable organisation. This includes taking anti-oppressive action and removing barriers in our recruitment practices. We particularly welcome applications from members of minoritised communities. Our Diversity, Inclusion, Equity and Belonging strategy will tell you more. We operate an anonymised shortlisting process in our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. CVs can be uploaded, but we won't be able to view them until we invite you for an interview. Instead, we ask you to fully complete the work history sections of the online application form for us to be able to assess you quickly, fairly and objectively. Accessibility We re committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and we ll always aim to be as accommodating as possible. Please let us know in your application form of any adjustments or access requirements we could make to help you with the application process and interview. To arrange an informal chat, please contact Bev Barker.
Location: Leeds General Infirmary / St James Hospital Interview date: 23rd April 2026 Change lives in a life-changing career When a child or young person is diagnosed with cancer, their whole world can feel like it s falling apart. Independence is taken and confidence is stolen. Stability no longer exists. The future suddenly feels uncertain. The impact of cancer on young lives is more than medical. And that impact can be felt by entire family. That s why we exist. Our specialist social workers help children and young people with cancer and their families navigate the emotional and practical impact of cancer. We remove barriers, solve problems and prioritise wellbeing. And we stop at nothing to make their voices heard and their unique needs understood, so they can get the right care and support at the right time About the role We are looking for an experienced Social Worker to join our Leeds Team supporting children and young people diagnosed with cancer. We pride ourselves on delivering the highest quality support tailored to the needs of the children and young people and their families. The work we do is rewarding but also complex and demanding. You will be part of a close-knit Young Lives vs Cancer social work team, working with an established NHS multi-disciplinary team and services in the community. This role is predominantly site-based with an element of occasional working from home as agreed with the line manager. Your contractual base will be both Home and Hospital. This post is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check. A previous conviction is not necessarily a barrier to employment. We encourage qualified applicants to apply, and we will consider each case individually. About you You will be committed to delivering high quality social work support to promote the best outcomes for the children, young people and families we work with. You will need to be resourceful and resilient. You will have a positive attitude and be willing to embrace difference. As part of the wider Young Lives vs Cancer team you will actively engage with the work of the charity and welcome opportunities to get involved. You will have: A recognised Social Worker qualification and current registration with Social Work England/ Scottish Social Services Council/Social Care Wales/Northern Ireland Social Care Council Experience working with children, young people and their families/carers in a social care setting. Experience of working in a multi-disciplinary environment, ideally in an NHS setting. Sound knowledge of child and young people development. An understanding of the impact of serious illness for children, young people and their families. Excellent interpersonal skills. What will I gain? For people to reach their full potential, they need the right environment. As a member of Team Young Lives, you ll be made to feel supported, valued and appreciated. Here s how we do it: Flexible working: we re open to working hours outside of 9 - 5 and we can talk through your flexibility requirements at interview stage Wellbeing, Thinking & Growth Days: four days a year to step back from the day-to-day and focus on your own learning and development Generous annual leave allowance Great family/caring leave entitlements Enhanced pension Access to our employee savings scheme To find out more about our benefits package, have a look on our website. Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging At Young Lives vs Cancer, we recognise that opportunities for too many people remain a condition of their sex, ethnicity, class, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation or a combination. This has never been acceptable to us as an organisation. We don t just accept difference, we value it, celebrate it, nurture it and we thrive because of it. We re on a journey to be reflective of the diverse children, young people and families we support. We know we aren t there yet, and we re passionately committed to taking actions and making changes to be a truly diverse, inclusive and equitable organisation. This includes taking anti-oppressive action and removing barriers in our recruitment practices. We particularly welcome applications from members of minoritised communities. Our Diversity, Inclusion, Equity and Belonging strategy will tell you more. We operate an anonymised shortlisting process in our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. CVs can be uploaded, but we won't be able to view them until we invite you for an interview. Instead, we ask you to fully complete the work history sections of the online application form for us to be able to assess you quickly, fairly and objectively. Accessibility We re committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and we ll always aim to be as accommodating as possible. Please let us know in your application form of any adjustments or access requirements we could make to help you with the application process and interview. To arrange an informal chat, please contact Bev Barker.
