Advocacy, Communications & Policy Manager Characteristics and Values:

Pragmatism, Lack of Prejudice, Optimism, Boldness, Enthusiasm, Committed, Kindness, Positivity, Self-awareness, Sense of Social Justice, Sense of humour, Compassion, Integrity, Empathy, Tenacity, Imagination, Respect, Openness, Patience and Idealism.

Do you want a job where you can make a difference? 

Do you aspire to the characteristics and values above?

If so, come work for Safetynet Primary Care!

Job title: 

Advocacy, Communications & Policy Manager Location: Hybrid (Dublin-based with remote flexibility, some travel may be required) 

Particulars of Office: 2-year fixed term contract (with potential to extend subject to funding) 6-month probationary period Hours: 28 hours per week (0,8 FTE) 

Salary: Starting at €48,000 (pro rata) Annual Leave: 25 days (pro rata)

Report To: CEO Safetynet Primary Care Vision Safetynet Primary Care is a Medical Charity providing services to those in our society most in need of health care but without access to appropriate care. 

Safetynet innovatively removes barriers by bringing healthcare to homeless people and vulnerable groups in hostels, food halls and drop-in services and by providing a mobile health service to rough sleepers. 

Safetynet has developed a significant Migrant Health service providing health assessment screening and GP clinics to vulnerable migrants, refugees and asylum seekers. We advocate for an inclusive health system and work towards integration of our patient’s health care to the mainstream services.

Safetynet Primary Care is an equal opportunities employer. Role Purpose The new role of Advocacy, Communications & Policy Manager will play a key part in advancing Safetynet Primary Care’s mission by advocating for improved healthcare access for marginalised groups, researching, analysing policies, and enhancing the organisation's profile. 

The role will be responsible for engaging with stakeholders, communicating findings, and supporting the implementation of the 2025-2028 Strategic Plan, including its communications. Lead strategic advocacy efforts to advance healthcare access for Ireland's most excluded populations, for example people experiencing homelessness, international protection applicants, and marginalised communities. 

The successful candidate will develop and implement evidence-based policy proposals, articulate clear positions on systemic healthcare barriers, and serve as a powerful voice for patients who face discrimination and exclusion from mainstream services. 

The role requires someone who can demonstrate leadership in addressing systemic challenges, integrate advocacy objectives into daily operations, and uphold human rights obligations under Section 42 of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission Act 2014. 

This role offers the opportunity to drive meaningful change in Ireland's healthcare landscape whilst advancing social inclusion and health equity, working with an innovative and responsive organisation. 

Key Responsibilities: 

The following outlines the primary duties and responsibilities associated with this position. 

Develop Strategy for Advocacy & Policy Initiatives:

• With the Senior Leadership Team, develop and oversee Safetynet’s advocacy and policy strategy, including long-term goals, KPIs, and social impact measurement
• Advise cross-departmental teams to integrate policy priorities into service delivery, training, and public engagement. Policy Influence & Advocacy
• Represent Safetynet in high-level government working groups, advocating for identified legislative reforms (e.g., housing, migrant healthcare rights).
• Advocate for the needs of Safetynet's clients through engagement with policymakers, government officials, and other relevant stakeholders.
• Draft and present policy submissions to Oireachtas committees, the HSE, and the Department of Health- based on identified patient needs Research & Evidence-Based Impact
• Conduct research on the healthcare needs of Safetynet's target groups, including internal data collection, analysis, and reporting.
• Translate findings into actionable recommendations for policymakers, ensuring Safetynets advocacy is grounded in robust evidence.
• Contribute to the development of funding proposals to support policy, research, and communications initiatives. 

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Strengthen partnerships with NGOs, healthcare networks, and EU bodies to amplify Safetynets leadership and influence.
• Support the CEO to optimise awareness of and engagement with Safetynet amongst a wide range of target audiences including service users, the Health Service Executive, third level institutions, other not for profit stakeholders and funders. Communications & Public Profile
• Oversee Safetynets communications strategy, including media relations, policy briefings, and campaigns targeting systemic inequities.
• Prepare and deliver presentations, reports, and other communication materials to disseminate research findings and policy recommendations to a variety of audiences, including policymakers, the public, and the media.
• When appropriate act as a spokesperson in national media and international forums
• Work with senior leadership and staff to define communications strategies and approaches. 

Note:

This Job Description outlines the current responsibilities of the role. As Safetynet Primary Care evolves, the duties associated with this position will evolve with it. Selection Criteria The successful candidate will possess the ability to work effectively in a sensitive and confidential environment, demonstrating discretion, professionalism, and empathy at all times.

Essential Skills & Qualifications:

• A third level degree in public health, social policy, research, communications, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in advocacy, policy analysis, research and/or communications, preferably within the healthcare or not for profit sector.
• Proven track record in influencing national policy (e.g., contributing to legislation, white papers).  
• Exceptional written and oral presentation skills
• Expertise in EU/Irish health policy, with experience engaging senior
• stakeholders
• Experience of utilising communications to support patient advocacy initiatives Strong organisational and project management skills, with the ability to manage and prioritise multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Excellent IT skills Desirable experience:
• Experience in the non-profit sector
• Experience securing grants/funding for advocacy or research initiatives. Knowledge of inclusion health/homelessness/drug policy/mental health frameworks in Ireland. 

Basic website content management or editing skills Alignment with Mission: 

This role ensures Safetynets advocacy directly addresses systemic barriers faced by marginalised groups, leveraging strategic leadership, research, and partnerships to drive lasting change. The ideal candidate should demonstrate a commitment to social justice and improving the health and well-being of marginalised groups.