Meet Our Campaigns Officer (NISCO)

I’m the Campaigns Officer for Team NISCO (Northern Ireland and Scotland) and REVIVE. My role is to help drive policy change through strategic digital campaigns, public engagement, and direct lobbying. Currently, my role focuses on helping run the REVIVE coalition campaign objectives which include ending grouse shooting on Scotland's grouse moors and pushing for land reform to benefit Scotland's wildlife, environment and people. I also do campaign work for the Unbound the Greyhound Coalition which campaigns to ban Greyhound racing in Scotland. Fox hunting was officially banned in Scotland in 2023 and team NISCO are currently trying to help implement a ban in Ireland.

Every day is different. One day I might be organising our fringe events for political party conferences or the agenda for our own REVIVE conference; the next, I could be seeking opportunities to collaborate with other relevant organisations to strengthen our campaign efforts. At other times, I might be producing mailouts, writing blogs, or drafting stakeholder responses to consultations on behalf of League Scotland or REVIVE. Some days involve meetings with MSPs to put forward policy proposals for a bill we're supporting, and later that same day I could be preparing campaign materials for an upcoming project.

What are the team dynamics like at the League?

I’m mostly in contact with my colleagues in Scotland, but I also maintain strong communication with the wider League HQ team whenever I need support, such as help with design work or social media advice. Everyone at the League is incredibly supportive and always willing to lend a hand.

As we mainly work from home, the Scotland team meets fortnightly, both in person and online, to catch up and ensure we’re working effectively together. I also have one-to-one meetings with my manager most weeks.

What are some of the common challenges you face in your role?

One of the biggest challenges is seeing and researching the extent of animal cruelty. It can be emotionally difficult, but knowing I’m contributing to ending that cruelty helps me cope.

Occasionally, I encounter people — both in person and online — who criticise our work and leave unpleasant comments. However, I am learning to block out negativity and remain focused on the positive impact we’re making.

How do you manage work-life balance in your role?

The League makes it easy for me to manage my work-life balance. The working hours are flexible, which helps me stay productive without feeling overwhelmed. I make sure to set clear boundaries between work and personal time.

What learning and development opportunities are there?

I’ve been consistently impressed by the development opportunities this role has offered. I’ve had the chance to try a wide variety of tasks that have pushed me out of my comfort zone — public speaking, for example.

The League also offers additional training for anyone interested in developing a new skill, and you’re encouraged to put forward suggestions for training you’d like to receive.

What have been your highlights since joining the League?

I started this role just as the Hunting With Dogs (Scotland) Act 2023 was about to be passed in the Scottish Parliament, so playing a part in pushing that bill over the finish line was a major highlight. Another significant moment was the passing of the Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Act in 2024, which included a full ban on snares in Scotland — a huge step forward for animal welfare and a big achievement for the League who had helped campaign for a ban on snares for years.

Another highlight was launching The Big Land Question project with REVIVE at our national conference, in front of hundreds of attendees including political representatives. It was an amazing moment that demonstrated how we are contributing to the land reform movement in a unique way — advocating for animals, the environment, and communities.

These achievements made me incredibly proud to work for an animal welfare charity. Knowing that our work directly contributes to real policy change, improved protections for animals, and a shift in how society views wildlife and land use reinforces why this role is so important — and why I’m passionate about being part of it.

Eliza, Campaigns Officer