Independent advocate jobs

We have an exciting opportunity for a Senior IDVA to join the Specialist Services team in Bedfordshire. This is a fixed term contract until 31st March 2026, which maybe extended subject to funding. This role will be hybrid and be located within Bedford Borough Council.

Do you want to make a difference every day? Do you want to contribute to change and improvement for those who need it?

Do you have resilience and adaptability? Can you work effectively with a focus on customer service and care?

If yes, then we'd love to hear from you…

What we offer:

At Victim Support we believe in attracting & retaining the best people and offer a competitive rewards & benefits package including:

• Flexible working options including hybrid working
• 28 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays, rising to 33 days plus Bank Holidays
• An extra day off for your birthday & options to buy or sell annual leave
• Pension with 5% employer contribution
• Enhanced sick pay allowances, maternity & paternity payments
• High Street, retail, holiday, gym, entertainment & leisure discounts
• Access to our financial wellbeing hub & salary deducted finance
• Employee assistance programme & wellbeing support
• Access to EDI networks and colleague cafes
• Cycle to work scheme & season ticket loans
• Ongoing training & support with opportunities for career development & progression

About this role:

This role supports the service across Bedford Borough. As a Team Leader for the Specialist Services team you will:

• Offer a consistent representative for the twice weekly MARAC
• Be a SPOC for the Front Door - giving advice and support around queries/ concerns about DA
• Carry a reduced caseload
• Support the Safe & Together model
• have line manage responsibilities including Bedford Borough IDVA

You will need:

• IDVA or ISAC qualification
• Experience in multi-agency partnerships and legislative frameworks
• Knowledge of equal opportunities, diversity, safeguarding, and risk assessments
• Understanding of confidentiality, safe working practices, and legal file maintenance
• Experience in customer-focused service delivery in challenging environments
• Crisis management and support experience
• Strong communication, negotiation, and advisory skills
• Ability to work independently, prioritise tasks, and manage competing demands
• Analytical skills for problem-solving and data reporting
• Proficiency in IT and software (Word, Excel, Case Management systems)
• Commitment to continuous self-development

Please see attached Job Description and Person Specification for further details.

About Us:

Victim Support (VS) is an independent charity providing a range of specialist services to people who have been affected by crime across England and Wales. We work towards a world where there are fewer victims but who have stronger rights, better support and a real influence in the Criminal Justice System. Everyone at VS is driven by our Vision Ambitions and Values to play their part in making a difference for those who experience crime and traumatic events. Working for VS gives you the opportunity to play a key role in a national charity providing high quality services to victims and witnesses and being a vital force for change.

Victim Support are committed to recruiting with care and to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Background checks and Disclosed Barring Service checks may be required.

Victim Support strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.

As part of our commitment to the Race at Work Charter we particularly welcome applicants from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.

If you have a disability, a learning difficulty such as dyslexia or a medical condition which you believe may affect your performance during any aspect of our selection process, we'll be happy to make reasonable adjustments to enable you to perform at your best.

How to apply:

To apply for this role please follow the link below to the Jobs page on our website, and complete the application form demonstrating how you meet the essential shortlisting criteria.

We looking forward to hearing from you.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early, if we receive enough suitable applications to take forward to interview prior to the published closing date.

If you have already registered & started an application, then we will contact you to advise of the amended closing date wherever possible.

Job Title: VAWG/IDVA Complex Needs and Multiple Disadvantage Advocate

ABOUT US

Hopscotch works hard to support women and families facing racial and gender inequity in London. We are proudly anti-racist and anti-misogynist. We take our trauma informed practice seriously, both with service users and within the organisation. We also run a successful Homecare service, with Care Workers supporting vulnerable people in south Camden who draw on care.

WHY HOPSCOTCH?

o Great, supportive culture and values, with low turnover and high levels of contentment

o You will want to work in an environment which is inclusive and non-judgemental. It’s a chance to challenge the status quo and not settle for what isn’t working

o You’ll love being a part of a diverse and vibrant team which has positivity, creativity and problem-solving values and where all voices are heard

o Your dedication will have a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need

o Be with an employer who is a signatory of the Employers Domestic Abuse Covenant (EDAC) – a pledge by businesses to support employees who are survivors of violence

o 25 days annual leave for full time employees, increasing after 5 years employment, with additional paid office closure between Christmas and New Year. Hopscotch believes we all deserve quality time to focus on our friends and family and most importantly, ourselves at this time

o Occupational sick leave

o Regular internal and clinical supervision with qualified therapists

The Role 

· Assertive outreach casework with very vulnerable women

· Responsible for supporting three women in the Borough of Camden

· Intensive support for complex needs with service users with a history of non-engagement with services

Accountabilities:

Casework

· Solution-focused casework interventions with women who have experienced VAWG and severe and multiple disadvantage

· Provide emotional support using a trauma informed approach

· Build and maintain supportive relationships with ethnically Minoritised women

· Ensure ongoing assessment and management of risks associated with service users within an attitude of ‘positive risk taking’

· Provide support with life skills, including practical assistance where skills are not yet developed

· Maintain accurate case notes and up to date records

· Contribute to the completion of outcomes reports and funding returns

· Complete all documents when support work commences and keep up to date with any changing risks to or from the woman.

· Risk assess situations in the moment, act calmly, professionally and be ready to remove self from/ call 999 in situations that appear too high risk to remain in

Advocacy and support service

· Empower women to access benefits and services they need

· Involve service users in the design, development and delivery of the service

Multi-agency

· Engage with a wide range of professionals (some of whom may have very different approaches to problem solving) through a multi-agency approach, and advocate to agencies on behalf of the Project and its service users

· Promote coordinated, joined-up service delivery for service users between violence against women services and drug and alcohol agencies, mental health, housing, health and legal agencies.

· Contribute to a service-wide communications plan and ensure that information about the service is widely available locally to other agencies and is also readily accessible to potential service users

· Educate a wide range of agencies and stakeholders about the challenges faced by women experiencing multiple disadvantage

· Proactively develop links with local statutory and voluntary organisations to provide a range of engagement opportunities for service users in the community

· Attend and contribute to the Domestic Violence MARAC as appropriate

· Contribute to monitoring and evaluation of the Project

· Be self-motivated to research processes and services in order to fully support and advocate for the women. 

· Fully engage with the partner teams and all support and team spaces offered, supporting colleagues with the difficulties they face and celebrating positive outcomes.

Corporate Responsibilities

· Ensure that all Hopscotch and Solace’s policies and procedures are adhered to

· Ensure effective implementation of Hopscotch and Solace’s Equality and Diversity policies and ensure awareness and integration of an equalities and human rights agenda in all your work

· Ensure that the service user is at the heart of all service delivery and development

· Attend all meetings and training relevant to your role

· Act as an ambassador for Hopscotch and Solace

Values, Behaviours & Competencies

· Committed to the purpose of Hopscotch and Solace Women’s Aid, ensuring that the service user is at the heart of service delivery and development

· Feminist in understanding ‘Violence against Women and Girls’

· Committed to fostering innovation and continuous improvement in working practice

· Flexible and open to new challenges, ideas and experiences, and able to be self-reflective

· Committed to understanding diversity and ensuring anti-discriminatory practice is applied in all forms of our work

· Non-judgemental with a commitment to self-care within the team

· Collaborative, building relationships with internal and external partners.

Knowledge, Experience and Skills

· Experience of working within the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Sector, including experience of risk & needs assessment, casework and safety planning with victim-survivors

· Experience of working with people affected by severe and multiple disadvantage: homelessness, substance use, mental health issues, insecure immigration status, prostitution and offending behaviour

· Experience working with minoritized Global Majority women and a diverse staff team applying anti-discriminatory practice

· Experience of building and maintaining partnerships with other agencies

· An excellent understanding of the issues faced by survivors of VAWG, including a knowledge of options for and rights of women experiencing all forms of VAWG

· Awareness of the intersection between severe and multiple disadvantage and VAWG, and a strong understanding of how the intersection of these issues can make it difficult for people to engage with support

· Knowledge of the particular needs of women from diverse communities and the barriers to accessing support faced by women from Global Majority communities

· An understanding of the impact of trauma on women

· A resilient and assertive approach to reaching out to and building trust and positive relationships with women who are experiencing multiple disadvantage and who may present as reluctant to engage and/or may be presenting in crisis

· Ability to provide solution focused advocacy and support

· Ability to advocate successfully within a multi-agency framework

· Ability to critically reflect on own practice and performance and make use of clinical supervision

· Excellent organisational and IT skills including the ability to be self-servicing, use relevant IT packages and maintain an efficient case recording and data reporting system

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Qualifications

· Degree level education and/or IDVA or DAPA qualification (or equivalent experience)

We would love to hear from you

Please send your CV and cover letter – or any questions to to us

Thanks and good luck!

Are you passionate about making a difference in people’s lives? Do you thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment? Are you ready to take on a role that impacts your community? We are currently seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated Independent Advocate to join our vibrant team in Gloucester!

As an Independent Advocate, you will provide crucial support to vulnerable adults facing significant health and social care challenges. Your role involves delivering persuasive verbal and written representations on behalf of clients, collaborating with public and voluntary organisations, and taking directed actions to address client issues. This role demands flexibility, excellent communication, and the ability to handle sensitive information confidently.

Hours of Work: 1x Full-Time: 37 hours, working between 9am – 5pm Monday – Friday. (We are also open to part time positions for this post, please specify this on your application and we are happy to discuss this further)

Location: Home based with travel around the Gloucester area. 

(Applicants should live in the Gloucester area; have a full driver’s licence and access to their own transport.)

Salary: £24242.40 per annum (Part-time will be Pro-Rata)

Contract Type: Permanent

Independent Advocate Requirements:

1. Strong communication and time management skills to successfully work remotely.
2. Excellent IT skills, including the use of Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel, and the ability to learn software packages such as client management databases.
3. Attention to detail to ensure accurate recording of records and reporting to meet tight deadlines.

Desirable:

1. Previous experience in advocacy, information and advice, or a similar role within health, social care, or the voluntary sector.
2. Demonstrable experience working with vulnerable adults.
3. Working knowledge of public and voluntary organisations.

Benefits:

1. 25 days annual leave + Bank holiday (Rising to 30 days after 5 years’ service) with the option to buy or sell up to 5 days leave + your birthday off as an additional holiday day after 1 years’ service!
2. Discretionary shutdown days at Christmas with up to 4 additional days leave.
3. 1 Community Leave Day per annum.
4. Cash Wellbeing Healthcare Plan which covers Optical/dental/alternative therapy and more!
5. Auto enrolment Pension plan
6. Death in service cover.
7. Bike to work scheme.

Meet the Organisation: Who We Are and What We Do

At POhWER, we are committed to empowering individuals and enabling their voices to be heard. We provide advocacy and information services to support people in making effective decisions about their health and social care. Our team is dedicated to listening, exploring options, and taking action to meet our clients’ best interests.

We provide a full induction, training and equipment including a laptop and mobile phone. It is a contractual requirement that all advocates hold or are working towards an advocacy qualification. The most recognised qualification is the City and Guilds Level 4 Independent Advocacy Practice Qualification (IAP) for practising advocates, previously completed City and Guilds Level 3 National Advocacy Qualification (NAQ). If you do not already hold an NAQ certificate or diploma or IAP qualification or equivalent, the expectation will be that you will gain the City and Guilds IAP qualification following successful completion of probation and pre-enrolment process. POhWER will fully sponsor this and provide a reasonable amount of study time and in return expect advocates to manage their time and complete within 12 months of registration.

Think you are the perfect fit for this Independent Advocate role? Don’t wait! Apply Now with your CV and Cover letter!

Closing Date: 9am, Monday 14th July 2025 (We reserve the right to close this vacancy early)

Interview Date: TBC

An Enhanced DBS check and National Offender Management Service vetting will be conducted for this position.

We’re proud to support our colleagues from the armed forces signing the Armed Forces Covenant in August 2024.

Successful applicants will need to obtain business insurance for their own vehicle.

POhWER is an equal opportunities employer, holder of the Investors in People Silver award, and a member of the MINDFUL EMPLOYER scheme. We are a level 2 Disability confidence scheme employer, and disabled applicants who meet all the essential criteria will be guaranteed an interview.

POhWER is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities, and particularly welcome candidates from groups currently underrepresented in our workforce. Our goal is to foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute. This includes, but is not limited to, people with disabilities, women, men, Black, Asian and other racially minoritised people, LGBTQ+ who are currently under-represented in our workforce.

To help embed inclusion for all, from day one, we offer a range of family friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements and employee networks to support people from different backgrounds.

Are you passionate about making a difference in people’s lives? Do you thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment? Are you ready to take on a role that impacts your community? We are currently seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated Independent Advocate to join our vibrant team in Gloucester!

As an Independent Advocate, you will provide crucial support to vulnerable adults facing significant health and social care challenges. Your role involves delivering persuasive verbal and written representations on behalf of clients, collaborating with public and voluntary organisations, and taking directed actions to address client issues. This role demands flexibility, excellent communication, and the ability to handle sensitive information confidently.

Hours of Work: 1xPart-Time: 18.50 hours, working between 9am – 5pm Monday – Friday. (We are also open to Full time positions for this post, please specify this on your application and we are happy to discuss this further)

Location: Home based with travel around the Gloucester area. 

(Applicants should live in the Gloucester area; have a full driver’s licence and access to their own transport.)

Salary: Part-time Salary £12,121.20 Per Annum (Full-time Salary equivalent £24242.40 per annum)

Contract Type: Fixed Term

Independent Advocate Requirements:

1. Strong communication and time management skills to successfully work remotely.
2. Excellent IT skills, including the use of Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel, and the ability to learn software packages such as client management databases.
3. Attention to detail to ensure accurate recording of records and reporting to meet tight deadlines.

Desirable:

1. Previous experience in advocacy, information and advice, or a similar role within health, social care, or the voluntary sector.
2. Demonstrable experience working with vulnerable adults.
3. Working knowledge of public and voluntary organisations.

Benefits:

1. 25 days annual leave + Bank holiday (Rising to 30 days after 5 years’ service) with the option to buy or sell up to 5 days leave + your birthday off as an additional holiday day after 1 years’ service!
2. Discretionary shutdown days at Christmas with up to 4 additional days leave.
3. 1 Community Leave Day per annum.
4. Cash Wellbeing Healthcare Plan which covers Optical/dental/alternative therapy and more!
5. Auto enrolment Pension plan
6. Death in service cover.
7. Bike to work scheme.

Meet the Organisation: Who We Are and What We Do

At POhWER, we are committed to empowering individuals and enabling their voices to be heard. We provide advocacy and information services to support people in making effective decisions about their health and social care. Our team is dedicated to listening, exploring options, and taking action to meet our clients’ best interests.

We provide a full induction, training and equipment including a laptop and mobile phone. It is a contractual requirement that all advocates hold or are working towards an advocacy qualification. The most recognised qualification is the City and Guilds Level 4 Independent Advocacy Practice Qualification (IAP) for practising advocates, previously completed City and Guilds Level 3 National Advocacy Qualification (NAQ). If you do not already hold an NAQ certificate or diploma or IAP qualification or equivalent, the expectation will be that you will gain the City and Guilds IAP qualification following successful completion of probation and pre-enrolment process. POhWER will fully sponsor this and provide a reasonable amount of study time and in return expect advocates to manage their time and complete within 12 months of registration.

Think you are the perfect fit for this Independent Advocate role? Don’t wait! Apply Now with your CV and Cover letter!

Closing Date: 9am, Monday 14th July 2025 (We reserve the right to close this vacancy early)

Interview Date: TBC

An Enhanced DBS check and National Offender Management Service vetting will be conducted for this position.

We’re proud to support our colleagues from the armed forces signing the Armed Forces Covenant in August 2024.

Successful applicants will need to obtain business insurance for their own vehicle.

POhWER is an equal opportunities employer, holder of the Investors in People Silver award, and a member of the MINDFUL EMPLOYER scheme. We are a level 2 Disability confidence scheme employer, and disabled applicants who meet all the essential criteria will be guaranteed an interview.

POhWER is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities, and particularly welcome candidates from groups currently underrepresented in our workforce. Our goal is to foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute. This includes, but is not limited to, people with disabilities, women, men, Black, Asian and other racially minoritised people, LGBTQ+ who are currently under-represented in our workforce.

To help embed inclusion for all, from day one, we offer a range of family friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements and employee networks to support people from different backgrounds.

Are you passionate about making a difference in people’s lives? Do you thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment? Are you ready to take on a role that impacts your community? We are currently seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated Independent Advocate to join our vibrant team in Gloucester!

As an Independent Advocate, you will provide crucial support to vulnerable adults facing significant health and social care challenges. Your role involves delivering persuasive verbal and written representations on behalf of clients, collaborating with public and voluntary organisations, and taking directed actions to address client issues. This role demands flexibility, excellent communication, and the ability to handle sensitive information confidently.

Hours of Work: 1xPart-Time: 18.50 hours, working between 9am – 5pm Monday – Friday. (We are also open to Full time positions for this post, please specify this on your application and we are happy to discuss this further)

Location: Home based with travel around the Gloucester area. 

(Applicants should live in the Gloucester area; have a full driver’s licence and access to their own transport.)

Salary: Part-time Salary £12,121.20 Per Annum (Full-time Salary equivalent £24242.40 per annum)

Contract Type: Fixed Term

Independent Advocate Requirements:

1. Strong communication and time management skills to successfully work remotely.
2. Excellent IT skills, including the use of Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel, and the ability to learn software packages such as client management databases.
3. Attention to detail to ensure accurate recording of records and reporting to meet tight deadlines.

Desirable:

1. Previous experience in advocacy, information and advice, or a similar role within health, social care, or the voluntary sector.
2. Demonstrable experience working with vulnerable adults.
3. Working knowledge of public and voluntary organisations.

Benefits:

1. 25 days annual leave + Bank holiday (Rising to 30 days after 5 years’ service) with the option to buy or sell up to 5 days leave + your birthday off as an additional holiday day after 1 years’ service!
2. Discretionary shutdown days at Christmas with up to 4 additional days leave.
3. 1 Community Leave Day per annum.
4. Cash Wellbeing Healthcare Plan which covers Optical/dental/alternative therapy and more!
5. Auto enrolment Pension plan
6. Death in service cover.
7. Bike to work scheme.

Meet the Organisation: Who We Are and What We Do

At POhWER, we are committed to empowering individuals and enabling their voices to be heard. We provide advocacy and information services to support people in making effective decisions about their health and social care. Our team is dedicated to listening, exploring options, and taking action to meet our clients’ best interests.

We provide a full induction, training and equipment including a laptop and mobile phone. It is a contractual requirement that all advocates hold or are working towards an advocacy qualification. The most recognised qualification is the City and Guilds Level 4 Independent Advocacy Practice Qualification (IAP) for practising advocates, previously completed City and Guilds Level 3 National Advocacy Qualification (NAQ). If you do not already hold an NAQ certificate or diploma or IAP qualification or equivalent, the expectation will be that you will gain the City and Guilds IAP qualification following successful completion of probation and pre-enrolment process. POhWER will fully sponsor this and provide a reasonable amount of study time and in return expect advocates to manage their time and complete within 12 months of registration.

Think you are the perfect fit for this Independent Advocate role? Don’t wait! Apply Now with your CV and Cover letter!

Closing Date: 9am, Monday 14th July 2025 (We reserve the right to close this vacancy early)

Interview Date: TBC

An Enhanced DBS check and National Offender Management Service vetting will be conducted for this position.

We’re proud to support our colleagues from the armed forces signing the Armed Forces Covenant in August 2024.

Successful applicants will need to obtain business insurance for their own vehicle.

POhWER is an equal opportunities employer, holder of the Investors in People Silver award, and a member of the MINDFUL EMPLOYER scheme. We are a level 2 Disability confidence scheme employer, and disabled applicants who meet all the essential criteria will be guaranteed an interview.

POhWER is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities, and particularly welcome candidates from groups currently underrepresented in our workforce. Our goal is to foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute. This includes, but is not limited to, people with disabilities, women, men, Black, Asian and other racially minoritised people, LGBTQ+ who are currently under-represented in our workforce.

To help embed inclusion for all, from day one, we offer a range of family friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements and employee networks to support people from different backgrounds.

Are you passionate about making a difference in people’s lives? Do you thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment? Are you ready to take on a role that impacts your community? We are currently seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated Independent Advocate to join our vibrant team in Gloucester!

As an Independent Advocate, you will provide crucial support to vulnerable adults facing significant health and social care challenges. Your role involves delivering persuasive verbal and written representations on behalf of clients, collaborating with public and voluntary organisations, and taking directed actions to address client issues. This role demands flexibility, excellent communication, and the ability to handle sensitive information confidently.

Hours of Work: 1xFull-Time: 37 hours, working between 9am – 5pm Monday – Friday. (We are also open to Part time positions for this post, please specify this on your application and we are happy to discuss this further)

Location: Home based with travel around the Gloucester area. 

(Applicants should live in the Gloucester area; have a full driver’s licence and access to their own transport.)

Salary: £24242.40 per annum (Part-time will be Pro-Rata)

Contract Type: Fixed Term

Independent Advocate Requirements:

1. Strong communication and time management skills to successfully work remotely.
2. Excellent IT skills, including the use of Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel, and the ability to learn software packages such as client management databases.
3. Attention to detail to ensure accurate recording of records and reporting to meet tight deadlines.

Desirable:

1. Previous experience in advocacy, information and advice, or a similar role within health, social care, or the voluntary sector.
2. Demonstrable experience working with vulnerable adults.
3. Working knowledge of public and voluntary organisations.

Benefits:

1. 25 days annual leave + Bank holiday (Rising to 30 days after 5 years’ service) with the option to buy or sell up to 5 days leave + your birthday off as an additional holiday day after 1 years’ service!
2. Discretionary shutdown days at Christmas with up to 4 additional days leave.
3. 1 Community Leave Day per annum.
4. Cash Wellbeing Healthcare Plan which covers Optical/dental/alternative therapy and more!
5. Auto enrolment Pension plan
6. Death in service cover.
7. Bike to work scheme.

Meet the Organisation: Who We Are and What We Do

At POhWER, we are committed to empowering individuals and enabling their voices to be heard. We provide advocacy and information services to support people in making effective decisions about their health and social care. Our team is dedicated to listening, exploring options, and taking action to meet our clients’ best interests.

We provide a full induction, training and equipment including a laptop and mobile phone. It is a contractual requirement that all advocates hold or are working towards an advocacy qualification. The most recognised qualification is the City and Guilds Level 4 Independent Advocacy Practice Qualification (IAP) for practising advocates, previously completed City and Guilds Level 3 National Advocacy Qualification (NAQ). If you do not already hold an NAQ certificate or diploma or IAP qualification or equivalent, the expectation will be that you will gain the City and Guilds IAP qualification following successful completion of probation and pre-enrolment process. POhWER will fully sponsor this and provide a reasonable amount of study time and in return expect advocates to manage their time and complete within 12 months of registration.

Think you are the perfect fit for this Independent Advocate role? Don’t wait! Apply Now with your CV and Cover letter!

Closing Date: 9am, Monday 14th July 2025 (We reserve the right to close this vacancy early)

Interview Date: TBC

An Enhanced DBS check and National Offender Management Service vetting will be conducted for this position.

We’re proud to support our colleagues from the armed forces signing the Armed Forces Covenant in August 2024.

Successful applicants will need to obtain business insurance for their own vehicle.

POhWER is an equal opportunities employer, holder of the Investors in People Silver award, and a member of the MINDFUL EMPLOYER scheme. We are a level 2 Disability confidence scheme employer, and disabled applicants who meet all the essential criteria will be guaranteed an interview.

POhWER is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities, and particularly welcome candidates from groups currently underrepresented in our workforce. Our goal is to foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute. This includes, but is not limited to, people with disabilities, women, men, Black, Asian and other racially minoritised people, LGBTQ+ who are currently under-represented in our workforce.

To help embed inclusion for all, from day one, we offer a range of family friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements and employee networks to support people from different backgrounds.

Are you passionate about making a difference in people’s lives? Do you thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment? Are you ready to take on a role that impacts your community? We are currently seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated Carers Independent Advocate to join our vibrant team in Gloucester!

As a Carers Independent Advocate, you will provide crucial support to vulnerable adults facing significant health and social care challenges. Your role involves delivering persuasive verbal and written representations on behalf of clients, collaborating with public and voluntary organisations, and taking directed actions to address client issues. This role demands flexibility, excellent communication, and the ability to handle sensitive information confidently.

Hours of Work: 1xPart-Time: 22.2 hours, working between 9am – 5pm Monday – Friday.

Location: Home based with travel around the Gloucester area. 

(Applicants should live in the Gloucester area)

Salary: £14545.44 (Full-Time salary equivalent £24242.40 pro rata per annum)

 

Contract Type: Fixed Term

Carers Independent Advocate Requirements:

1. Strong communication and time management skills to successfully work remotely.
2. Excellent IT skills, including the use of Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel, and the ability to learn software packages such as client management databases.
3. Attention to detail to ensure accurate recording of records and reporting to meet tight deadlines.

Desirable:

1. Previous experience in advocacy, information and advice, or a similar role within health, social care, or the voluntary sector.
2. Demonstrable experience working with vulnerable adults.
3. Working knowledge of public and voluntary organisations.
    

   Benefits:

4. 25 days annual leave + Bank holiday (Rising to 30 days after 5 years’ service) with the option to buy or sell up to 5 days leave + your birthday off as an additional holiday day after 1 years’ service!
5. Discretionary shutdown days at Christmas with up to 4 additional days leave.
6. 1 Community Leave Day per annum.
7. Cash Wellbeing Healthcare Plan which covers Optical/dental/alternative therapy and more!
8. Auto enrolment Pension plan
9. Death in service cover.
10. Bike to work scheme.
    
    Meet the Organisation: Who We Are and What We Do
    
    At POhWER, we are committed to empowering individuals and enabling their voices to be heard. We provide advocacy and information services to support people in making effective decisions about their health and social care. Our team is dedicated to listening, exploring options, and taking action to meet our clients’ best interests.
    
    We provide a full induction, training and equipment including a laptop and mobile phone. It is a contractual requirement that all advocates hold or are working towards an advocacy qualification. The most recognised qualification is the City and Guilds Level 4 Independent Advocacy Practice Qualification (IAP) for practising advocates, previously completed City and Guilds Level 3 National Advocacy Qualification (NAQ). If you do not already hold an NAQ certificate or diploma or IAP qualification or equivalent, the expectation will be that you will gain the City and Guilds IAP qualification following successful completion of probation and pre-enrolment process. POhWER will fully sponsor this and provide a reasonable amount of study time and in return expect advocates to manage their time and complete within 12 months of registration.
    
    Think you are the perfect fit for this Carers Independent Advocate role? Don’t wait! Apply Now with your CV and Cover letter!
    
    Closing Date: 9am, Monday 14th July 2025 (We reserve the right to close this vacancy early)
    
    Interview Date: TBC

    An Enhanced DBS check and National Offender Management Service vetting will be conducted for this position.

    We’re proud to support our colleagues from the armed forces signing the Armed Forces Covenant in August 2024.

    Successful applicants will need to obtain business insurance for their own vehicle.

    POhWER is an equal opportunities employer, holder of the Investors in People Silver award, and a member of the MINDFUL EMPLOYER scheme. We are a level 2 Disability confidence scheme employer, and disabled applicants who meet all the essential criteria will be guaranteed an interview.

    POhWER is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities, and particularly welcome candidates from groups currently underrepresented in our workforce. Our goal is to foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute. This includes, but is not limited to, people with disabilities, women, men, Black, Asian and other racially minoritised people, LGBTQ+ who are currently under-represented in our workforce.

    To help embed inclusion for all, from day one, we offer a range of family friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements and employee networks to support people from different backgrounds.

About the organisation
For nearly 50 years, nia has provided high quality, women-led services across North and East London. nia has three main aims: to provide services for women, children and young people who have experienced male violence, working to end men’s violence against women and girls, and to inform and influence policy and public awareness.
nia’s values, and our commitment to upholding them, set us apart. We put women first – always and without hesitation: we believe women, we are run by women, for women. We leave no woman behind: we challenge inequality and discrimination and believe that uniting women of all backgrounds is essential to ending the sex-based oppression of women.

About the post
The ISVA provides proactive support and advocacy to female survivors of sexual violence who are engaging with the criminal justice system. You will work as part of a growing feminist Rape Crisis service that is developing to meet the needs of women and girls. This post requires travel across East London, and a hybrid model of home, outreach and office working.

About you
We’re looking for a highly organised and self-motivated woman who is passionate about ending violence against women and girls. You’ll have a ‘can-do’ approach and demonstratable commitment to nia’s feminist approach to supporting women and girls. We particularly welcome applications from Black, Asian and Minoritised women.

CV’s will not be accepted.

Closing date: 10am, Monday 14th July 2025
Interview date: Wednesday 23rd July 2025

The post is subject to an enhanced vetting and barring check and open to women only. Genuine Occupational Requirement (GOR), Schedule 9 (Work; Exceptions), Part 1 (Occupational Requirements), of the Equality Act (2010) applies.

Do you want to work with a leading advocacy charity organisation supporting those in need?

Do you have experience of working or volunteering in welfare, support or health and social care or have an interest in people and are looking for a new challenge?

Are you keen to make a difference to people who want to be heard?

Then come and join us here at VoiceAbility.

Due to continued contract growth, we are looking for new Advocates to join our team in Lambeth. We are seeking applicants who have transferable skills, a willingness to learn and a desire to help those in need of support.

About us

VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations.

We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most.  For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website.

About the role

We have exciting opportunities for Advocates to join our team covering Lambeth. Your role will require you to travel to locations such as hospitals and care homes across the area to meet with clients and professionals and be home based for administration; therefore, a suitable home internet connection is essential. 

How will you make a difference?

You will be responsible for ensuring the individual’s wishes, feelings, beliefs, needs, and values are met to create positive outcomes for the people you support.

You will support people to speak up for themselves and grow in confidence, equip them to understand and exercise their rights and options, and will assist them in the decision-making process relating to their care, treatment, and support.

You will work resourcefully and collaboratively with the individuals you support.  You’ll be creative in your approach to empower our clients by ensuring you meaningfully explain people’s options and rights to them.  You’ll support individuals to fully participate in decisions affecting them and will make sure they have their voices heard. 

Professional Development

You will have plenty of opportunities to enhance your professional abilities and you will make a real difference every day. Advocates are expected to achieve, or already hold, the Level 4 Award in Independent Advocacy Practice with specialisms suitable for the role undertaken. To develop yourself for an exciting new career

Benefits:

• 28 days annual leave per year raising to 30 days upon 5 years of service pro rata plus bank holidays
• 5% employer pension & 3% employee contribution
• Salary sacrifice pension scheme
• Life Assurance/ Death in service two times your annual salary
• Staff discount scheme including major supermarkets discounts, retail discounts, entertainment, holidays etc
• Discounted Gym Membership; Employee Assistance programme
• Supportive working environment fostering a good work/life balance.
• Support with continuous professional development
• Paid Disability leave
• Paid Volunteering leave

· Paid compassionate Leave 

· Home Working Allowance  

Support with continuous professional development 

Access to Clifton Strengths Coaching for development  

Personal Development Plans 

How are staff supported to work remotely? 

VoiceAbility has a small number of offices. Employees including Team Leaders are homebased for Administration and meetings will be held online as well as in person in the relevant community. 

When you need to travel for work, expenses will be paid (mileage or public transport costs).  

VoiceAbility offers the usual regular manager one to ones, Staff forums and communities of practice depending on role. Team meetings with a mix of virtual and in person approach. 

Equality and Diversity

VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential.

VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please contact HR for further options.

Important Dates:

Closing date for applications; Friday 11th July 12pm however, VoiceAbility may interview suitable candidates before this date and reserve the right to withdraw this vacancy before this date.

Don’t forget to read the person specification so you can tell us about yourself and how your skills, abilities and experiences match the criteria outlined in the person specification.

Hint: you can use work, personal and/or voluntary experiences and examples to tell us why you should be our next Advocate.

We look forward to hearing from you.

South West Advocacy Network supports and empowers people to have a voice, by ensuring access to quality, independent advocacy. We believe that everyone has the right to be heard & respected, the right to choice in decisions about themselves and the right to be safe.

Service Managers are responsible for their services meeting targets and delivering on contract requirements, including providing the data required for contract and organisational monitoring.
The Service Manager role assumes responsibility for all aspects of SWAN’s West Berkshire statutory advocacy services. This includes IMCA, Paid Rep, Care Act and IMHA. Our Service Manager is also responsible for the delivery of SWAN’s social value projects in West Berkshire.
The role requires a positive approach and a high degree of personal responsibility. The Service Manager is responsible for the West Berkshire team’s performance. Service Managers are experienced and inspirational leaders. You will be working remotely, but within easy commuting distance of West Berkshire.  They have, or are willing to work towards, a level 5 management qualification.
The post is subject to 2 references including previous employer, evidence of right to work in the UK and an enhanced DBS check.

FTE salary is £31,602.88 - £34,533.32 (actual £25,623.97 - ££27,999.99) and the lower salary will be paid to new starters unless they hold the relevant qualifications.

Hope for Justice is working in partnership with the British Red Cross, The Snowdrop Project, St Mary’s University & SOHTIS to pilot the Independent Modern Slavery Advocate® (IMSA) model across the UK. The aim of the IMSA® model is to ensure that all survivors of modern slavery and human trafficking have access to an accredited independent advocate.

Hope for Justice will lead the central IMSA® Model Hub throughout the pilot, working to support IMSAs and their employing organisations throughout the UK. This role will form part of the central hub team, delivering an Advocacy Advice and Intervention Service for professionals and survivors across the UK. 

The IMSA® Advocacy Advice Service offers specialist, tailored advice and signposting for modern slavery support throughout the UK. The service can be accessed by survivors and professionals. The IMSA® Advocacy Intervention Service offers short-term, issue specific advocacy for survivors to overcome barriers.

As an Advice and Intervention IMSA®, you will support the delivery of the Advocacy Advice and Intervention Service through providing specialist, tailored advice and signposting and independent advocacy to a small caseload of survivors. The role will also be vital to responding to all enquiries into the IMSA® model pilot via the central hub and assessing the level of service required (i.e. advice, intervention or referral to an IMSA® for long-term independent advocacy).

Key Result Areas:

·Provide expert advice and advocacy as part of the IMSA® Model Hub Advocacy Advice Service, fulfilling Tier 1 (advice) and Tier 2 (advocacy intervention) of the IMSA model

·All incoming advice enquiries and survivor referrals are triaged and processed effectively

·Survivors receive best practice independent advocacy and understand their socio-legal rights and entitlements, working together with the Advice & Intervention IMSA® to overcome barriers and find pathways forward

·The advocacy advice service is an expert resource for the IMSA Model Hub, contributing to research, strategy development, MEAL, and training needs

As an Advice and Intervention IMSA® you will be an integral part of the delivery of the IMSA® model pilot, a unique and exciting opportunity to demonstrate the crucial importance of independent advocacy for survivors of modern slavery and human trafficking.

This is a UK-based role within our UK Advocacy Team and a fixed term contract for 41 months. 

Requirements

·Support the delivery of the IMSA Model Hub through the advocacy advice service

·Respond and appropriately triage enquiries into IMSA Model Hub advocacy advice service

·Provide tailored, specialist advice, advocacy and signposting in response to enquiries in a timely and efficient manner (Tier 1 of the IMSA model)

·Manage a small caseload of clients to provide advocacy intervention, working together to overcome barriers and develop pathways forward (Tier 2 of the IMSA model).

·Identify appropriate new referrals for IMSAs within the IMSA model pilot and/or the HfJ IMSA team (Tier 3 of Hope for Justice IMSA model).

·Contribute to the delivery of the IMSA model advocacy advice service ensuring that:

Survivors know and understand their rights and entitlements in their own language

- Trauma-informed ways of working are applied

- Survivors’ needs are assessed, potential barriers are overcome, and clear pathways of support are identified in accordance with the Slavery and Trafficking Survivor Care Standards 2018

- Survivors are supported to access relevant legal and support agencies and systems

·Support the Advocacy Advice Coordinator with the delivery and implementation of structures, processes, and best practice for the advice service, including contributing to funding, finance, and MEAL systems

·Support the Advocacy Advice Coordinator and MEAL Manager to evaluate and report on the effectiveness of the IMSA model advocacy advice service to internal and external stakeholders

·Maintain up-to-date knowledge of changes in legislation and policy in relation to modern slavery and report on the impact of these changes on survivor outcomes

·Adopt reflective practice approaches, identifying areas for improvement and seeking continued professional development opportunities

·Identify and escalate safeguarding concerns appropriately and in accordance with organisational policies, procedures, and practice

·Support the Advocacy Advice Coordinator in the development and delivery of capacity strengthening information sessions for internal and external stakeholders

·Establish good working relationships with key agencies and services within the sector to develop strong advice pathways and partnerships

·Maintain accurate and up-to-date case management notes, ensuring that data protection and information sharing policies are upheld

·Work collaboratively across the IMSA Model Hub and wider network of IMSAs to support best practice

Support the aims of the IMSA Model Hub and the IMSA project, promoting the benefits of independent advocacy and the opportunity to reform responses to survivors of modern slavery access across the UK

We are recruiting for a Housing Advocate to join our team in Hertfordshire; the scope on this job involves….

Job Title: Housing Advocate

Location: Hertfordshire
Salary: £14,428.56 per annum
Contract type: Part-time, Permanent

Hours: 37.5

We want kind and empathic people to work at Refuge, who believe in equality, diversity, and inclusion, are experts in their area of knowledge, want to make a positive difference and improve the lives of the women and children we support. 

This is an opportunity to join Refuge as a Housing Advocate to support women and children who are impacted by domestic abuse. You will work closely with victims of domestic abuse from the point of crisis, to provide high quality independent advocacy and support to survivors of domestic abuse at the highest risk and their children. 

  As part of this role, you will be required to participate in an out-of-hours on call rota.  

This post is restricted to women due to the nature of the role. The Occupational Requirement under Schedule 9 (part 1) of the Equality Act 2010 applies. 

Closing date: 9.00am on 7 July 2025

Interview date: 21 July 2025

Benefits

Refuge offers a variety of exciting opportunities to learn, develop and grow in your career. We recognise the value everyone brings to the organisation to achieve our aims and are dedicated to developing and rewarding our staff. More details of our benefits can be found in Job Information Pack.

Do you want to work with a leading advocacy charity organisation supporting those in need?

Do you have experience of working or volunteering in welfare, support or health and social care and are looking for a new challenge?

Are you keen to make a difference to people who want to be heard?

Then come and join us here at VoiceAbility.

We are looking for two new Advocates to join our team in Lincoln on a 12-month fixed term contract. We are seeking applicants who have transferable skills, a willingness to learn and a desire to help those in need of support.

About us

VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations.

We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most.  For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website.

About the role

We have an exciting opportunity for an Advocate to join our team covering Lincoln to support parents whose children are subject to s47 Care proceedings and other meetings accordingly. Your role will require you to travel to locations such as clients’ homes, hospitals, care homes and within community settings across the area to meet with clients and professionals. You will be home based for administration; therefore, access to your own transportation and a suitable home internet connection is essential. 

This is a full-time role for 35 hours per week. 

About you

Desirably you will have some experience of working as an Advocate, providing welfare, supporting, or caring for Adults or young people who have support needs, ideally for those with a variety of communication needs, mental ill health, physical health issues, or barriers to accessing education and support.

You should have worked or volunteered in health, social care, welfare, support services, education or young person’s services, or advice and guidance.

How will you make a difference?

You will be responsible for ensuring the individual’s wishes, feelings, beliefs, needs, and values are met to create positive outcomes for the people you support.

You will support people to speak up for themselves and grow in confidence, equip them to understand and exercise their rights and options, and will assist them in the decision-making process relating to their care, treatment, and support.

You will work resourcefully and collaboratively with the individuals you support.  You’ll be creative in your approach to empower our clients by ensuring you meaningfully explain people’s options and rights to them.  You’ll support individuals to fully participate in decisions affecting them and will make sure they have their voices heard. 

Professional Development?

You will have plenty of opportunities to enhance your professional abilities and you will make a real difference every day.

Benefits:

· 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro-rata for part-time colleagues) rising to 30 days upon 5 years’ service 

· 5% employer pension & minimum 3% employee contribution 

· Salary sacrifices pension scheme 

· Separate Life Assurance Cover (equivalent of two times your annual salary) 

· Staff discount scheme including retail discounts, entertainment, holidays, gym membership etc 

· 24/7 Employee Assistance programme 

· Access to remote counselling service 

· Paid Disability Leave 

· Paid compassionate Leave 

· Home Working Allowance  

Support with continuous professional development 

Access to Clifton Strengths Coaching for development  

Personal Development Plans 

How are staff supported to work remotely? 

VoiceAbility has a small number of offices. Employees including Team Leaders are homebased for Administration and meetings will be held online as well as in person in the relevant community. 

When you need to travel for work, expenses will be paid (mileage or public transport costs).  

 VoiceAbility offers the usual regular manager one to ones, Staff forums and communities of practice depending on role. Team meetings with a mix of virtual and in person approach. 

Equality and Diversity

VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential.

VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please contact HR for further options.

How to apply

To apply for this role please sign up for a recruitment account by clicking on the link to our webpage. Follow the instructions to create your account, upload your CV, and complete our short application form.

Important Dates:

Closing date for applications; Midnight, Sunday 6 July 2025, however, VoiceAbility reserve the right to withdraw this vacancy before this date.

Don’t forget to read the person specification so you can tell us about yourself and how your skills, abilities and experiences match the criteria outlined in the person specification.

Hint: you can use work, personal and/or voluntary experiences, and examples to tell us why you should be our next Advocate.

We look forward to hearing from you.

We are recruiting for a IDVA to join our team in Hertfordshire; the scope on this job involves….

Job Title: IDVA

Location: Hertfordshire
Salary: £28,857.12 per annum
Contract type: Full-time, Permanent

Hours: 37.5

We want kind and empathic people to work at Refuge, who believe in equality, diversity, and inclusion, are experts in their area of knowledge, want to make a positive difference and improve the lives of the women and children we support. 

This is an opportunity to join Refuge as Independent Domestic Violence Advocate to supporting women and children who are impacted by domestic violence. You will work closely with victims of domestic abuse from the point of crisis, to provide high quality independent advocacy and support to survivors of domestic abuse at the highest risk and their children. 

This post is restricted to women due to the nature of the role. The Occupational Requirement under Schedule 9 (part 1) of the Equality Act 2010 applies. 

Closing date: 9.00am on 21 July 2025

Interview date: 29 July 2025

Benefits

Refuge offers a variety of exciting opportunities to learn, develop and grow in your career. We recognise the value everyone brings to the organisation to achieve our aims and are dedicated to developing and rewarding our staff. More details of our benefits can be found in Job Information Pack.