Specialist Domestic Abuse Help Line& Intake Practitioner G8

Reed; Wakefield; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A community support organization is seeking a Specialist Domestic Abuse Help Line & Intake Practitioner to deliver vital services for victims of domestic abuse. This role requires substantial experience in the field, strong crisis management skills, and the ability to collaborate across agencies. The successful candidate will be responsible for triaging referrals, assessing risks, and ensuring immediate safety. A relevant degree or IDVA qualification is essential. Office-based work with some travel is required.

Qualifications

• Substantial experience in the domestic abuse field.
• Knowledge of domestic abuse dynamics and impact.
• Experience in crisis intervention and case management.

Responsibilities

• Act as the first point of contact for enquiries and referrals.
• Provide helpline support, advice, and information.
• Triage referrals and prioritise high-risk cases.

Skills

Crisis management and interpersonal communication

Advocacy and engagement

Risk analysis and referral decision-making

IT and administrative proficiency

Ability to work independently and meet deadlines

Education

IDVA qualification or relevant degree

Job description

Specialist Domestic Abuse Help Line & Intake Practitioner

Grade: 8 (Job Evaluation Code: PR1972)

Reporting to: Senior Specialist Domestic Abuse Practitioner (Grade 10)

Location: Police Headquarters, Havertop Lane, Normanton (with flexibility across the district)

Service Area: Housing Needs Service – Wakefield District Domestic Abuse Service (WDDAS)

Directorate: Adults Health and Communities

Workstyle: Office-based with flexibility; occasional out-of-hours work required

Overall Purpose:

To deliver a helpline and intake service for WDDAS, providing initial contact, support, and a consistent referral pathway for victims of domestic abuse. The role involves triaging referrals, assessing risk and needs, and ensuring immediate safety through multi-agency collaboration.

Key Responsibilities:

• Act as first point of contact for enquiries and referrals
• Provide helpline support, advice, and information
• Triage referrals and prioritise high-risk cases
• Conduct initial contact and assessments
• Deliver immediate safety planning and support
• Signpost or refer to appropriate services (e.g. Freedom Programme, Housing)
• Use evidence-based tools (e.g. DASH 2009) for risk assessment
• Liaise with professionals and contribute to MARAC
• Maintain accurate records and contribute to service development
• Provide reports, briefings, and presentations
• Cover case management during staff absences
• Stay updated on legislation, policy, and best practices

Essential Requirements:

Qualifications:

• IDVA qualification or relevant degree (or equivalent experience)

Knowledge:

• Domestic abuse dynamics and impact
• Safeguarding (children and adults)
• Civil/criminal justice remedies
• Risk assessment and safety planning
• Confidentiality and data protection
• Equal opportunities and diversity
• Housing needs and emergency accommodation
• Cultural awareness (e.g. HBV, FGM, No Recourse to Public Funds)

Experience:

• Substantial experience in domestic abuse field
• Multi-agency and partnership working
• Crisis intervention and case management
• Supporting victims, families, and perpetrators
• Risk assessments and Sanctuary Scheme Assessments
• Handling distress and challenging behaviour
• Delivering training and working in performance-driven environments

Skills:

• Crisis management and interpersonal communication
• Advocacy and engagement
• Risk analysis and referral decision-making
• IT and administrative proficiency
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines

Working Conditions:

• Office-based with travel across sites
• Requires successful Police vetting
• DBS check and other employment checks required