Job Description
Make a Meaningful Difference in Rare Dementia Care
This is an opportunity to join the internationally respected UCL Dementia Research Centre (DRC), part of University College London.
Based within the Queen Square Institute of Neurology and working alongside the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, the Centre combines world-leading clinical research with direct patient support.
You will work within Rare Dementia Support (RDS) — a specialist service providing social, emotional and practical guidance to people living with rare, atypical, inherited and young onset dementias, as well as their families and professionals supporting them. RDS is funded by The National Brain Appeal and delivered in partnership with clinical and academic teams.
Our shared vision is simple: everyone affected by a rare dementia should have access to accurate information, compassionate guidance and a supportive community.
The Role
As an Information, Knowledge and Support Adviser, you will join the RDS direct support team and provide specialist advice through:
- One-to-one support calls
- In-person appointments at the Rare Dementia Support Centre
- Support group facilitation (including some evening and occasional Saturday sessions)
- Collaboration with professionals and practitioners
You will support individuals living with degenerative neurological conditions and those close to them — often at emotionally challenging moments.
The role also offers scope to shape new initiatives, including:
- Development of new peer support groups
- Professional training programmes
- Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPI/E) projects
- You will contribute directly to strengthening the support ecosystem for rare dementia communities across the UK.
Working Pattern
- This is a hybrid role, with 60–80% of time based on-site or at agreed regional locations.
- Occasional evening and weekend work is required to support community events. Some business travel within central London may also be necessary.
- Restrictions on annual leave may apply during periods of high service demand.
About You
We are seeking a knowledgeable and empathetic professional who brings:
- An Honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant health-related discipline
- Significant experience delivering support across the dementia diagnostic pathway (pre-, peri- and post-diagnosis)
- In-depth understanding of atypical, inherited and young onset dementias
- Up-to-date knowledge of UK health and social care systems
- Confidence communicating sensitive information to cognitively impaired or psychologically vulnerable individuals
- Strong organisational and interpersonal skills
You will be comfortable supporting individuals facing complex and progressive conditions, using tailored communication strategies and professional judgement.
Regulatory and Immigration Information
This post meets eligibility requirements for Skilled Worker sponsorship and may also be suitable under the Global Talent route.
For official guidance, please refer to:
- Skilled Worker visa
- Global Talent visa
- UK Visas and Immigration overview
- Proving the right to work in the UK
- Health and social care system overview
International applicants requiring sponsorship are welcome to apply.
What We Offer
In addition to meaningful, impactful work, UCL offers:
- 41 days annual leave (27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays, 6 closure days)
- Option to purchase an additional 5 days leave
- Defined Benefit Career Average Revalued Earnings (CARE) pension scheme
Immigration loan
- Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan
- On-site nursery and gym facilities
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Discounted medical insurance
- We welcome applications for part-time, flexible or job-share arrangements wherever feasible.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
The Institute operates an inclusive and collaborative environment where individual strengths are recognised and valued. A significant proportion of staff actively contribute to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion initiatives.
The Institute holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award, recognising its commitment to advancing gender equality.
As London’s Global University, UCL is committed to fairness, belonging and representation. We particularly encourage applications from individuals who are underrepresented in our workforce, including:
- Black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates
- Disabled candidates
- LGBTQI+ and gender diverse candidates
- Women in senior grades
- We believe compassionate care and excellent research thrive in diverse and inclusive environments.
How to Apply
Please submit:
- A current CV
- A completed online application
A supporting statement (or cover letter) outlining how you meet the essential and desirable criteria
Additional attachments will not be considered at this stage.