People with mental health problems are three times as likely to be in problem debt: we’re here to change that. Money and Mental Health is an independent research charity, committed to breaking the link between financial difficulty and mental health problems. We conduct research, develop practical policy solutions and work in partnership with both those providing services and those using them to find what really works.
Job Description: External Affairs Intern
We are now looking for an ambitious, enthusiastic person with a demonstrable interest in mental health, policy, financial services or campaigning to take on a six month internship at the Institute. This is a fixed-term, training position.
The successful candidate will have the unique opportunity to get hands on experience working across the External Affairs team at Money and Mental Health. Set up by Martin Lewis, of MoneySavingExpert in spring 2016, we are a small dynamic organisation that works flexibly and intensively across a range of policy areas. During our two years we have worked tirelessly to drive our research into both headlines and boardrooms, and are excited to grow the team.
As part of the team you will have the opportunity to contribute to the overall direction and the day-to-day functioning of the organisation. We can also promise a concerted and systematic focus on your own learning and professional development.
Examples of activities across the team:
- Researching and drafting copy for a range of communication channels, including the website and e-newsletters;
- Political and media monitoring, including updating the team on parliamentary activity;
- Assisting with public affairs activity, drafting letters to MPs, arranging and attending meetings;
- Writing blogs for the Institute about a range of topics;
- Supporting with the management of a communications forward planning system;
- Supporting with the management of social media channels and generating content;
- Supporting with management of the website, uploading and editing content;
- Researching, maintaining and updating contact lists, including press distribution lists, stakeholder lists and e-newsletter recipient lists;
- Assisting with events, including liaising with attendees, sourcing venues, promoting the events and managing attendee lists;
- Liaising with external suppliers, e.g. designers, printers and event venues;
- Contributing to the operational success of the Institute by assisting the team with administrative and organisational duties as necessary (e.g. maintaining office supplies and processing purchases).
Person specification
We do not have minimum expectations in terms of professional experience or subject matter expertise - above all, we’re looking for a candidate with excellent verbal and written communication skills, intellectual curiosity and an analytical mindset. A passion for improving lives is the biggest prerequisite.
Essential characteristics
- Relevant undergraduate degree or equivalent experience: applicant need not be a recent graduate;
- Confident written and verbal communication skills: comfortable writing for a range of audiences and tailoring style and content appropriately;
- Understanding of a range of different communication channels and how to use them to reach different audiences effectively;
- An ability to provide appropriate attention to detail;
- An empathetic and sensitive approach to working with people sharing their personal;
- experiences, or who are in distress;
- Hard working and committed, taking direct ownership of work and seeing things through;
- Organised and able to manage a busy to do list;
- Demonstrable interest in mental health and other key issues on which the Institute works;
- Either experienced in using a range of digital tools, or enthusiastic about learning.
Terms and conditions
- Hours: 37.5 hours per week;
- Reporting to: Head of External Affairs;
- Duration: Six months fixed term contract;
- Pension: opportunity to be enrolled in the work pension scheme (subject to meeting standard auto-enrollment qualifying criteria);
- Holidays: 25 days per annum plus bank holidays (pro rata for 6 months and including 3;
- days between Christmas and New Year when the office will be closed).
We operate a flexible working culture. Within reason, and upon agreement from management, employees are free to change their working hours. We are an equal opportunities and ​Mindful employer​, and welcome applications from all - including those with lived experience of a mental health condition.