The Obesity Health Alliance (OHA) is seeking an ambitious and passionate intern to join the team for a 12-month fixed-term contract, offering a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience at the heart of UK public health policy and advocacy.
Diet-related ill health remains one of the UK’s most pressing public health challenges, and the OHA continues to campaign for bold, evidence-based action to create a healthier food environment. As a coalition of more than 70 leading health organisations, charities, medical royal colleges, academic experts and professional bodies, the Alliance works to influence government policy on healthy weight, obesity prevention and treatment.
Over the years, the OHA has played an important role in securing major public health policy victories, including the Soft Drinks Industry Levy, stronger restrictions on junk food advertising, and measures to limit fast-food outlets near schools. With momentum building around efforts to improve the nation’s health, the Alliance is now looking for an intern to support its influential work.
The successful candidate will work closely with the OHA’s Government Affairs Lead, supporting public affairs and policy activity, including the Alliance’s role as Secretariat to the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Dietary Health. Responsibilities will include monitoring political developments, drafting policy briefings and communications, engaging with parliamentarians and stakeholders, supporting coalition coordination, and contributing to the OHA’s social media and external communications activity.
This role offers an excellent opportunity for someone interested in public health, policy, politics or communications to develop their skills and understanding of how evidence-based policymaking can improve population health. The postholder will gain valuable experience working with parliamentarians, health experts and advocacy organisations while contributing to campaigns that seek meaningful, lasting change across the UK food system.
The OHA is hosted by Diabetes UK and operates within a flexible, hybrid working environment. The Alliance welcomes applications from individuals who are committed to improving health outcomes and reducing the burden of obesity and diet-related disease.
Applications close on 29th July, with interviews scheduled to take place in person on 20th August 2026.