About Company
Solent Mind is the largest independent mental health charity in the Solent area, dedicated to making a positive difference to the lives of people experiencing mental health problems. For over 60 years, we have been working to promote good mental health, challenge stigma, and provide a range of vital services, including supported housing, talking therapies, and community support groups. We are passionate about empowering individuals to live full and meaningful lives, advocating for better mental health provision, and creating a more understanding and supportive society.
Job Description
Are you a highly motivated, detail-oriented, and passionate individual with a keen interest in public policy, communications, and advocacy, particularly within the crucial field of mental health? Solent Mind is actively seeking a dedicated Remote Public Affairs Assistant to join our dynamic and impactful team. This is an exceptional and rewarding opportunity to contribute significantly to vital advocacy work, influencing policy and raising awareness from anywhere within the UK, with your base office linked to our Shirley, Southampton operations. As a pivotal member of our public affairs function, you will play a crucial role in supporting our extensive efforts to shape public discourse, influence policy makers, and ensure that the experiences and needs of individuals facing mental health challenges are powerfully amplified and heard at local, regional, and national levels. You will be instrumental in helping us navigate the complex and ever-evolving landscape of mental health policy, communicating our mission and impact effectively to a diverse range of stakeholders, and contributing to innovative campaigns that drive meaningful and lasting positive change. This role offers the highly valued flexibility of remote work, empowering you to effectively balance your professional commitments with personal well-being, all while remaining an integral and valued part of a supportive, collaborative, and highly impactful team dedicated to a shared cause. We are specifically looking for a proactive individual with strong analytical capabilities, exceptional research skills, and outstanding communication abilities, eager to develop their career and make a substantial contribution within the non-profit sector. If you are deeply passionate about mental health advocacy, possess the drive to contribute to a cause that genuinely matters, and are ready to take on a challenging yet incredibly rewarding role, we warmly encourage you to apply and help us shape a brighter, more supportive future for mental health in the Solent area and across the UK.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct thorough research and analysis on relevant government policies, legislative developments, and public consultations affecting mental health.
- Draft compelling briefings, reports, consultation responses, and other communication materials for internal and external stakeholders.
- Monitor media coverage, parliamentary activities, and political landscapes to identify opportunities and risks for Solent Mind's advocacy work.
- Provide comprehensive administrative and logistical support for public affairs activities, including scheduling meetings and managing databases.
- Assist in developing and maintaining strong relationships with key stakeholders, including MPs, councillors, civil servants, and partner organisations.
- Contribute to the creation and dissemination of engaging content for our website, social media channels, and newsletters, aligned with our advocacy messages.
- Support the planning and execution of virtual events, campaigns, and awareness-raising initiatives.
- Collaborate closely with internal teams, including services, fundraising, and communications, to ensure a unified approach to our public affairs efforts.
Required Skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to convey complex information clearly and concisely.
- Proven strong research and analytical capabilities, with an eye for detail and accuracy.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
- Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a remote team, demonstrating strong self-motivation and time management.
- A foundational understanding of the UK political system, policy-making processes, and the role of the third sector.
- A genuine passion for mental health advocacy and a commitment to Solent Mind's values and mission.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
Preferred Qualifications
- A degree or equivalent qualification in Political Science, Public Relations, Communications, English, History, or a related field.
- Previous experience (paid or voluntary) in a public affairs, policy, communications, or administrative role within a charity, public sector, or agency environment.
- Familiarity with CRM systems or stakeholder management databases.
- Experience in content creation for social media or digital platforms.
Perks & Benefits
- Flexible remote working options to support work-life balance.
- Generous annual leave allowance.
- Access to a comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for personal and professional support.
- Opportunities for continuous professional development and training.
- A supportive and collaborative team environment dedicated to a vital cause.
- Employer contributions to a pension scheme.
- Meaningful work that directly impacts mental health in the community.
How to Apply
To apply for this rewarding opportunity, please click on the application link below. We encourage you to submit your CV along with a compelling cover letter outlining your suitability for the role and your passion for mental health advocacy.