Job Description
About the Service
This role sits within the UCL Dementia Research Centre (DRC), part of University College London, and based at the Queen Square Institute of Neurology in partnership with the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery.
The DRC is internationally recognised for clinical research into neurodegenerative conditions. Alongside research, it runs a specialist cognitive disorders clinic and leads Rare Dementia Support (RDS) — a national support service for individuals and families affected by rare dementias.
RDS provides tailored social, emotional and practical support to people living with atypical, inherited and young onset dementias. The service aims to ensure that no one navigating a rare dementia diagnosis feels isolated or unsupported.
The programme is funded in partnership with The National Brain Appeal and UCLH Charity.
The Purpose of the Role
As an Information, Knowledge and Support Adviser, you will be a central point of contact for individuals and families affected by rare dementia. Your role will combine specialist knowledge, emotional intelligence, and practical problem-solving.
You will:
- Deliver specialist support through telephone consultations and in-person sessions at the Rare Dementia Support Centre
- Provide guidance to carers, families, friends, and healthcare professionals
- Support individuals before, during, and after diagnosis
- Contribute to the development of new support groups and educational initiatives
- Help shape professional training and patient/public involvement activities
This is a role that requires compassion, expertise, and the ability to communicate complex and sensitive information clearly and empathetically.
Working Pattern & Expectations
- Hybrid working arrangement (60–80% on site or agreed regional locations)
- Occasional evening and Saturday work to support group activities
- Some business travel within central London and potentially beyond
- Restrictions on annual leave during peak operational periods may apply
- The position is immediately available and currently funded until 31 December 2026.
Who We Are Looking For
You will hold:
- An Honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant health-related field
- Proven experience delivering rare dementia support across diagnostic stages
- In-depth knowledge of atypical, inherited, and young onset dementias
- Strong understanding of UK health and social care systems
You must also demonstrate:
- Skilled management of complex degenerative conditions
- The ability to communicate highly sensitive information compassionately
- Experience supporting individuals with cognitive impairment or psychological vulnerability
- Excellent organisational and interpersonal skills
Knowledge of UK legislation and professional frameworks relevant to the role is essential, including:
- Equality Act 2010 guidance
- Health and Social Care Act framework
- Mental Capacity Act guidance
- Data protection and UK GDPR guidance
- UK Visas and Immigration information for skilled workers
Visa & Sponsorship
This role meets the eligibility criteria for a Skilled Worker Certificate of Sponsorship or a Global Talent visa under UK immigration legislation. International applicants requiring visa sponsorship are welcome to apply.
What UCL Offers
Working at University College London means being part of a globally respected institution with a strong commitment to staff wellbeing and development.
Benefits include:
- 41 days annual leave (27 days annual leave + 8 bank holidays + 6 closure days)
- Option to purchase 5 additional leave days
- Defined benefit Career Average Revalued Earnings (CARE) pension scheme
Immigration loan support
- 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
- Flexible, part-time, and job-share arrangements will be considered wherever operationally feasible.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
The Institute fosters an inclusive working environment where individual strengths are recognised and supported. It holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award in recognition of its commitment to advancing gender equality.
As London’s Global University, University College London actively encourages applications from individuals currently underrepresented in higher education, including:
- Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities
- Disabled applicants
- LGBTQI+ and gender-diverse individuals
- Women in senior grades
The organisation is committed to ensuring that everyone feels valued, respected, and able to thrive.