Domestic Violence Advocate

Housing and Support Recruitment Limited; Coventry; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Independent Domestic Violence Advocate to provide vital support to victims of domestic violence and abuse. This role involves working closely with law enforcement and community agencies to deliver a high-quality outreach service tailored to the individual needs of women and children. You will play a crucial part in helping users navigate the criminal justice system, ensuring their voices are heard while promoting their well-being and safety. If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals and have the necessary qualifications, this is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause.

Qualifications

• Experience in advocacy for victims of domestic violence and abuse.
• Knowledge of safeguarding guidelines and relevant legislation.

Responsibilities

• Advocate for victims with agencies and provide high-quality outreach support.
• Develop Individual Support Plans and maintain confidential files.

Skills

Advocacy for domestic violence victims

Understanding of safeguarding guidelines

Experience with BAME communities

Crisis intervention

Education

IDVA or ISVA qualification

Knowledge of relevant legislation

Tools

Computerized case management system

Job description

As the Independent Domestic Violence Advocate, you will advocate for victims with agencies who can help in addressing domestic violence and abuse. You will work with the Police and MARAC, accepting referrals made by them, as well as through the helpline or directly into the IDVA service.

In this critical role, you will develop and deliver a confidential, high-quality outreach support service to victims/survivors experiencing domestic violence and abuse at the highest risk levels living in the community.

You will recognize women and children’s individual needs, providing a short to medium-term service to meet those needs. You will also work with women to identify their support needs and incorporate these into the women’s Individual Support Plans, which you will review and update regularly while maintaining confidential files, including a computerized case management system.

As part of this role, you will translate and converse with users in their indigenous language and coach users to raise awareness of life in the U.K. (systems, cultures, and laws, etc.). You will also provide practical and language help to survivors and victims regarding their cases through the criminal justice system.

The end goal is to support users to move out of crisis and high-risk situations toward self-development and safe independence.

To be successful in this role, you will need to have experience working with BAME communities experiencing domestic violence and have experience working within a social care/welfare setting, and within safeguarding guidelines to protect and promote the well-being of children and vulnerable adults.

Qualified as an IDVA or ISVA, you will have an in-depth knowledge of relevant legislation such as the Children’s Act, Safeguarding Children, Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults, Domestic Violence Crime and Victims Act, Forced Marriages (Civil Protection) Act 2007, and the new Domestic Abuse Bill.