Project Officer – Social Project Officer – Social Prescribing for Young People

Job Description

About Us

The Research Department of Behavioral Science and Health at UCL is dedicated to understanding how human behavior influences health and wellbeing. Our work is interdisciplinary and addresses a wide range of public health challenges, including alcohol and tobacco use, obesity, heart disease, and cancer prevention.

This position sits within the Social Biobehavioral Research Group, led by Professor Daisy Fanout, which investigates the role of social factors in health. This includes both negative experiences such as loneliness and isolation, and positive influences such as social connection, community and cultural engagement, nature, and social prescribing.

About the Role

We are looking for a motivated and compassionate individual with a background in youth work, social prescribing, or community-based support to support two key projects:

INACT – exploring social prescribing in schools to support lonely young people.

CASPA – examining the use of social prescribing for young people transitioning out of Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS).

The role involves both direct work with young people (supporting their engagement with social prescribing opportunities) and research-related activities.

Key Responsibilities:

Work remotely and on-site to support young people in accessing and engaging with social prescribing activities and services.

Develop and maintain strong relationships with schools, youth services, and community organisations.

Assist with project coordination, data collection, and evaluation activities as part of the research team.

Contribute to the ongoing development of best practice in youth social prescribing.

About You

Essential:

Experience in youth work, social prescribing, or similar roles involving community navigation or referrals.

Strong interpersonal and communication skills, especially when working with young people.

Good organizational and teamwork abilities.

Understanding of the social determinants of health.

Experience in project coordination, outreach, or evaluation activities.

Desirable:

Knowledge or experience with mental health services for young people (e.g., CAMHS).

Experience working in school or healthcare settings.

Familiarity with safeguarding policies and procedures.

Please note: An enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is required for this role.

Contract and Application Details

This role is externally funded until 30 September 2026.

The role does not meet eligibility requirements for a Skilled Worker visa, so applicants must already have the right to work in the UK.

Appointment is subject to UCL’s standard Terms and Conditions for Research and Professional Services Staff. More details: UCL HR Terms

To Apply:

Submit an online application including a CV and a personal statement clearly addressing the essential and desirable criteria listed in the person specification.

Do not upload additional attachments – only the CV and supporting statement will be considered.

What We Offer

41 days’ annual leave (27 days + 8 public holidays + 6 closure days)

Option to purchase up to 5 additional days of leave

Defined benefit pension scheme (CARE)

Cycle to Work Scheme and Season Ticket Loan

Immigration loans and relocation support (where applicable)

On-site nursery and gym

Enhanced parental leave (maternity, paternity, adoption)

Access to Employee Assistance Programme

Discounted medical insurance
Visit: UCL Rewards and Benefits

Flexible, part-time, and job-share arrangements will be considered in line with project needs.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

UCL is committed to being a diverse and inclusive employer. We strive to create an environment where everyone feels they belong and can thrive. We welcome applications from individuals underrepresented in academia, including:

People from Black, Asian, and ethnic minority backgrounds

Disabled people

LGBTQI+ and gender-diverse individuals

Women (particularly in senior roles)

Our department holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award, recognising our commitment to advancing gender equality.