Advertised from 5 June 2026

Role

Help us rewrite the future of how Scotland cares for dying children

We are looking for an ambitious Policy and External Affairs Officer to help drive change in how Scotland supports babies, children and young people with life-shortening conditions.

This is a rare opportunity to influence national and local policy working across policy, public affairs and strategic communications, supporting CHAS to shape public debate and strengthen the system of support around families.

You’ll work on high-impact priorities, contribute to national conversations, and help ensure that the voices of children and families inform decision-making at every level.

About the role

Working closely with the Policy and External Affairs Manager and a high-performing Marketing and Communications team, you will:

• Contribute to policy development and advocacy that informs national and local decision-making

• Shape and deliver strategic campaigns and communications to drive increased awareness and influence positive change

• Support engagement with MSPs, civil servants, local government and partners, building CHAS’ influence

• Deliver insight, analysis and briefings that position CHAS as a trusted, expert voice on children’s palliative care and public health issues

• Work across the organisation to ensure lived experience and evidence are at the heart of our work

This is more than a policy or communications role. You’ll contribute to system-level change, gain exposure to national policy development and public debate, and work as part of a collaborative, ambitious and values-driven team.

You’ll have responsibility from the outset, with opportunities to develop your skills and build your career in public affairs, policy and strategic communications.

About you

We’re interested in people with ambition, curiosity and strong judgement.

You’ll bring:

• Experience in a policy, public affairs and/or communications roles

• A good understanding of the Scottish and UK political landscape

• A good understanding of the Scottish media landscape

• The ability to analyse issues and translate complex issues into clear, compelling messages for both policy and media audiences

• Strong relationship-building skills and confidence working with stakeholders

• The ability to manage competing priorities and work at pace

We welcome applications from candidates with equivalent experience and transferable skills.

About CHAS

Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS) provides care and support for babies, children and young people with life-shortening conditions, and their families, across Scotland. We deliver specialist children’s palliative care in hospices, homes and hospitals-helping families spend meaningful time together and supporting them through the most difficult moments. 

Working at CHAS

• Hybrid working, with flexibility across home and CHAS sites

• Travel across Scotland (approx. 20%) for meetings, events and stakeholder engagement

• A supportive environment with opportunities for learning, development and progression

• A culture built on collaboration, trust and respect

• A competitive benefits package including generous annual leave, pension contribution, flexible working, and wellbeing support

This role requires the ability to travel to locations across Scotland; a full driving license and access to a car are required.

Application notes

Further information and how to apply

If this sounds like the right role for you, we’d love to hear from you. 

Please follow the link to visit our vacancy page where you will find further details about the role and the benefits of working at CHAS: https://chas.current-vacancies.com/Jobs/Advert/4211692

To arrange an informal conversation about the role, please contact Emma Whitfield (Head of Marketing and Communications) on EmmaWhitfield@CHAS.org.uk 

For any queries about the recruitment process, please contact our HR Team on 0131 444 3293 or email careers@chas.org.uk

This role requires a Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Check for working with children.