Job Description

Independent Domestic Sexual Violence Advocate (IDSVA)

We are seeking a dedicated Independent Domestic Violence Advocate (IDVA) to join our Newham-based team. This role involves working closely with high-risk survivors of domestic abuse, providing vital advocacy, safety planning, and emotional support. You will play a key role in a multi-agency response to domestic violence by collaborating with the Police, MARACs, MASH, social services, and other key stakeholders.

• Case Management: Handle high-profile, intensive caseloads, ensuring survivors receive tailored support based on risk assessments and safety planning.
• Risk Assessment & Safety Planning: Conduct and regularly review SafeLives DASH risk assessments and individual support plans to enhance survivor safety.
• Advocacy & Support: Provide survivors with guidance on legal options, housing, benefits, children's welfare, and employment opportunities.
• Multi-Agency Collaboration: Work alongside Police, health services, schools, social services, and community groups to ensure a coordinated response to domestic abuse.
• MARAC Representation: Attend Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conferences (MARACs), advocating for survivors and ensuring that risk management plans are effectively coordinated.
• Legal & Court Support: Assist survivors through civil and criminal proceedings, liaising with relevant legal professionals and support services.
• Data & Record Keeping: Maintain accurate, confidential case records in compliance with data protection policies.
• Safeguarding: Identify and escalate safeguarding concerns for both children and adults at risk, ensuring appropriate interventions.
• Outreach & Awareness: Work with community groups and agencies to promote access to domestic abuse services, with a focus on inclusivity for minority and hard-to-reach groups.

• Experience working with survivors of domestic abuse in an advocacy or support role.
• Strong knowledge of the Criminal Justice System, safeguarding policies, and legal frameworks relevant to domestic abuse.
• Ability to work within a multi-agency setting, collaborating with professionals from various sectors.
• Strong case management skills, including risk assessment and safety planning.
• High level of emotional resilience and ability to support survivors in crisis situations.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including report writing and case note recording.
• Experience using computer-based systems for case recording and client management.
• Willingness to participate in an out-of-hours on-call rota if required.

• Opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of survivors of domestic abuse.
• Work as part of a dedicated and passionate team within a well-established domestic abuse service.
• Engage in professional development opportunities and specialist training.
• Be part of a supportive work environment committed to safeguarding and best practice.

If you are passionate about supporting survivors of domestic violence and want to be part of a team that makes a real impact, we encourage you to apply.

How to Apply:
Please submit your CV and a covering letter outlining your relevant experience and suitability for the role. For more infomation please contact (url removed)