Public Health Programme Officer (Anti-Poverty)

This is a fixed term contract linked to specific external funding by the Crisis and Resilience fund until March 2029.

About the role

This is a unique opportunity to shape how the Council works with residents and communities to prevent poverty and reduce inequalities. You’ll advocate confidently for these areas, bringing people together, holding constructive conversations, and working with partners to turn lived experience and local insight into practical change. The role is varied and outward-facing, working across teams and partners to test new approaches, influence decisions, and support programmes such as the Crisis and Resilience Fund and the Council’s Anti-Poverty Strategy.

About you

You’ll be motivated by making a difference and putting people first. You’ll be inclusive and able to understand diverse social and economic backgrounds, recognising that poverty has many dimensions. You’ll be reflective and self-aware, able to consider multiple perspectives and work effectively with internal and external partners. You’ll communicate confidently and tactfully with different audiences, influencing and motivating others. You’ll be comfortable holding difficult spaces with an open and respectful approach, navigating sensitive situations and challenge with strength and humility. People with lived experience of poverty and who live in the borough of Rochdale are encouraged to apply.

About us

Rochdale Borough Council is on an exciting journey to work differently with residents through initiatives such as Live Well and neighbourhood-based working. We offer a supportive environment where you can bring ideas, test new ways of working and help pioneer change that improves lives. You’ll work with passionate colleagues and partners, with opportunities to learn, collaborate and develop. The Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects staff to share this commitment.

How to apply

To apply please upload your CV together with a supporting statement that provides evidence of how you meet the essential requirements of the person specification.

Please include reference to your qualifications that are specified on the person specification within your CV/supporting statement.

Please ensure you anonymise your CV and supporting statement.

If you’d like to discuss the role, please contact william.townsend@rochdale.gov.uk.

We are looking to hold interviews on the 25th June 2026.

Unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role