Global role with diverse functions and impact.

Set the policy and influencing agenda for Europe’s largest HIV and Sexual Health NGO. Worked across three policy environments in the UK (Scotland, Wales and, England); expanding my experience of Westminster and UK government structures. Secured a strong understanding of public health approaches, as well as, social care, education, immigration, asylum, welfare and justice systems. Actively supported people living with HIV to claim their rights though support individuals to seek redress under equality law and through training and capacity building to encourage active participation and campaigning by communities.Successfully negotiated production of guidelines by the Crown Office Scotland on limits to prosecution of HIV transmission and exposure- which substantially reduced the scope for unjust police investigation and prosecution of people living with HIV. Scotland was only the second country to achieve this globally. Latterly graduated towards international collaboration and focus, particularly around the issue of criminalisation. • Engaged with frontline service providers, affected communities, professional associations, networks and other key interlocutors. Developed a programme aimed to support greater direct involvement of key populations in decision making processes, particularly in health and social care systems.• Advocated on a wide range of issues relating to HIV and sexual and public health in local, national and international fora- ranging from clinical guideline development to national political conferences, Parliamentary Groups and the UN sponsored Global Commission on HIV and the Law.• Directed campaigns on issues incl. legalization of HIV home testing kits, access to treatment for people seeking asylum, sex and relationships education in schools and access to HPV vaccination for boys.

Gained extensive experience as a public affairs professional; advocating on a wide range of health and social justice issues affecting marginalised groups across Scotland and Wales, including people living with HIV and LGBTI, Sub-Saharan African diaspora, refugee and migrant communities . • Delivered a programme of parliamentary engagement in the Scottish Parliament and Welsh Assembly.• Advised senior leadership, staff and stakeholders on emerging health, social care, education and justice issues in Scotland and Wales and facilitated organisational responses. • Undertook research and engagement with affected communities to identify key issues, campaigning objectives and policy solutions.campaigning objectives and policy solutions. • Managed case work and directly supported people who had experienced discrimination in employment, healthcare settings and the criminal justice system• Represented the charity publicly in a range of fora and acted as a media spokesperson.

Developed detailed knowledge of the Scottish political and policy environment- incl. parliamentary processes, political party dynamics and structures, Scottish Government departments and civil society. Gained a thorough understanding of the wider UK political context and also worked regularly with the NHS and local authorities. • Provided strategic support to a Member of the Scottish Parliament.• Developed research briefings and a wide range of communication materials – press releases, speeches, web content. • Monitored parliamentary processes, drafted parliamentary questions, motions etc.• Liaised with constituents and community stakeholders to develop policy responses and solutions to local issues. • Oversaw complex constituent case work • Managed several cross party groups This role also involved managing the successful passage of a Private Members Bill: The Breastfeeding etc. (Scotland) Act 2005 through parliament. This legislation promoted public health via legal protections for breastfeeding mothers and babies in public spaces and was the first of its kind in the UK.