Independent mental health advocate jobs

Position: Community Voice Officer

Location: Barnsley, South Yorkshire

Hours: 25 hours to be taken between Mon – Fri, one day working from home, other days expected to be in the community or office

Salary: £30,000 pro rata; 5% pension contribution, 33 days of annual leave entitlement (inclusive of bank holidays) pro rata

 Reportable to: Healthwatch Manager

Direct reports: None

Job Purpose

Healthwatch Barnsley (hosted by Barnsley CVS), is going through an exciting redesign to enable community voices to have even greater impact on the current strategies and developments in Barnsley.  The Community Engagement Officer role is an impactful and rewarding opportunity to join the Healthwatch Barnsley Team as we navigate upcoming changes introduced through the new NHS 10 Year Plan and the forthcoming Health Bill.  This role will ensure that the voices of Barnsley residents remain central as we work towards building a health and social care system that is fit for the future.

You will use your excellent interpersonal skills and creativity to gather feedback on Barnsley priorities, ensuring residents’ views shape local projects and developments contributing to Barnsley’s vision as the “Place of Possibilities”.

Working with Barnsley CVS and other established third-sector organisations you will identify new ways to reach under-represented or seldom-heard communities and strengthen how their voices inform local decision-making. You will collaborate with the wider Healthwatch team to support a strong, credible and independent voice within Barnsley’s strategic boards, helping to create a genuinely “Listening Borough”.

By capturing residents’ experiences and feeding them back to services you will contribute to a continuous feedback loop that empowers communities, builds trust and encourages ongoing participation in future engagement activities.

Key focus areas you could be working on include topics such as system-wide shifts

· Hospital to Community

· Analogue to Digital

· Sickness to Prevention

· Health on the high street

· The Barnsley 2040 vision

As part of the redesign, you will work as a team to design new ways to create dynamic feedback loops to the public using tools such as magazine creation, blogs or vlogs, podcasts, social media.  Your work will ensure that the communities in Barnsley know that their voice can have a genuine impact on the shaping of their town.

Employee benefits

- 33 days of annual leave (including bank holiday) which increases with longevity

- all staff given time off between Christmas and New Year without it impacting your leave entitlement

- enhanced sick pay during probation and increased entitlement with longevity

- 5% pension contribution

- discounts at local gym

- Enhanced maternity pay

About the role:

As a Navigator across Camden and Islington, you will work alongside people who are rough sleeping and facing multiple disadvantage, offering consistent, psychologically informed support from first contact through to longer term stability. This is a role for someone who wants to be out in the community, building real relationships and making change happen where it matters most. You will hold a small caseload, giving you the space to do this work properly, staying alongside each person as they move through crisis, into accommodation, and towards a life that feels safer, more independent and more their own.

No two days will look the same. You might be meeting someone on the streets to start building trust, advocating with partners to unlock housing options, or working through the practical and emotional barriers that can make moving forward feel out of reach. You will take a holistic approach, drawing on your understanding of trauma, mental health, substance use and domestic abuse to shape support that is responsive, creative and genuinely centred around the individual. This is a role where persistence matters, where small steps count, and where your ability to adapt and think differently can open up new pathways for clients.

You will be part of a wider, well connected network across Camden and Islington, working closely with local services and partners to coordinate support and create opportunities that would not be possible in isolation. With the autonomy to manage your own time and work flexibly across the boroughs, this role offers the chance to grow your practice, deepen your skills and be part of a service that is focused on doing things differently to end rough sleeping for good.

About you:

• You bring experience of working with people who are rough sleeping or facing multiple disadvantage, with a strong understanding of mental health, substance use and domestic abuse, and how these can present in a street-based context.
• You work in a genuinely person-centred, trauma informed way, using harm minimisation and a strengths based approach to build trust, manage a caseload and support people to achieve meaningful, lasting outcomes.
• You are resilient, creative and adaptable, able to engage people who can be hard to reach and think differently when progress feels slow, staying consistent and committed to each client’s journey.
• You are confident working alongside others, building strong relationships with services across health and social care, leading and contributing to multi agency working, managing risk effectively and keeping clear, accurate records.

About Us:

We’re London’s leading homelessness charity – and we get things done.

In a city where hundreds are forced into homelessness every day, our work has never been more needed or more challenging. And we’re not shying away. We’re rolling up our sleeves to make change and helping over 10,000 Londoners every year. We prevent homelessness, provide safe places to live and give people the opportunity to rebuild their lives and transform their futures. And we never give up. 

We’re here for Londoners wherever they are on their journey. We start with trust, building relationships that help people feel safe, supported, and ready to move forward. Every day, we put people first in everything we do, challenging injustice and barriers that keep people from the safety, stability and opportunity they deserve. We stand alongside people as they rebuild and shape a future that feels their own. 

Joining Single Homeless Project means joining a team that’s bold, compassionate and determined to do better for the people we support and for each other. You’ll work alongside colleagues with lived experience, in a space that’s trans-inclusive, disability-friendly, and actively striving to be anti-oppressive and equitable. 

We’re not perfect, but we’re real. We listen. We learn. And we push forward, together. Because this isn’t just a job. It’s a chance to lead with empathy, spark change,  cand help build a London where no one is left behind.

Important Info:

Closing Date: Sunday 26th April at midnight

Interview Date: Tuesday 5th April online via Microsoft Teams 

Please note shortlisted candidates will be required to complete a short psychometric test before being confirmed for interview. 

This post will require an Enhanced DBS check to be processed (by SHP) for the successful applicant.

Please note applications are reviewed for AI use in application questions. Applications with insufficient right to work or requiring sponsorship will not be accepted for this role. 

Job Title: Independent Gender Violence Advocate (IGVA)

Location: The Gaia Centre, Lambeth
Salary: £14,850.68  per annum, inlcuding London weighting if applicable
Contract type: Part Time, Permanent

Hours: 18.75 hours per week (working days to be discussed)

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.

The independent gender violence advocate will work closely with victims of gender-based violence from the point of crisis, to provide high quality independent advocacy and support to survivors of gender-based violence at the highest risk and their children.

The role will be part of increasing the ability of partner agencies to recognise, reject and respond appropriately and safely to all forms of gender-based violence (including domestic violence, sexual, financial and emotional abuse, female genital mutilation, forced marriage and honour-based violence). The post holder will empower survivors by providing them with emotional, practical and personal welfare support. The job involves ensuring that women are provided with a safe, supportive and welcoming environment, enabling them to access their rights, make decisions and increase their life options. 

The job involves working within a multi-agency framework consisting of the MARAC and local partnership protocols and procedures that prioritise the safety of survivors. The job involves informing survivors of the full range of civil, criminal, and practical options that might increase their safety. 

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: 09:00am 30 April 2026

Interview Date: 11 May 2026

Job Title: Independent Domestic Violence Advocate

Location: Warwickshire
Salary: £26,701.36 per annum 
Contract type: Full Time, Fixed Term Contract (12 Months)

Hours: 37.5 hours per week

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 an Independent Domestic Violence Advocate supporting women and children who are impacted by domestic violence.

We are looking for a skilled, values driven IDVA who is committed to challenging inequality, reducing harm, and improving safety for adults and children affected by domestic abuse. You will bring relevant professional experience, strong skills in assessment, engagement, safety planning and communication, and the ability to work safely in complex and high risk situations. We are seeking people who can hold clear boundaries and accountability while offering empathy, curiosity and respect. You will work in a trauma informed, survivor centred and strengths based way, recognising each survivor as the expert in their own life. You will understand how gendered power, oppression and structural barriers shape survivors’ experiences, and you will be confident applying these principles in your practice.

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: 09:00am 27 April 2026

Interview Date: 6 May 2026

Location: Pan-London / Camden (Head Office) / Hybrid  

Salary: Unqualified: £29,385 - £30,671 per annum

Qualified: £30,671 - £33,438 per annum

(Please note that applicants are usually appointed at the bottom of the relevant band based on fairness and our pay scales)

Hours: 37.5 hours per week 

Contract: Fixed Terrm Contract (Until 31st March 2028)

Closing Date: Sunday 19th April 2026

Closing Time: 00:00am

Are you looking for a rewarding role working for an intersectional feminist organisation? If so, we have an incredible opportunity for you to join our team as a Brief Intervention Independent Sexual Violence Advocate (ISVA) at Solace Women's Aid.  

You will be joining a team of committed and inspiring individuals whose dedication has saved the lives of thousands of women, men and children in the capital. We are looking for friendly and diligent individuals to join our services and help us make a difference.

Our core values reflect our history and were developed in consultation with staff and service users. Feminism and intersectionality are key to our work and we are committed to the principles of being survivor-led, trauma-informed, empowering, diverse, anti-racist and anti-discriminatory.

About the Service

The North London Rape Crisis (NLRC) offers range of services to women, trans women, and non-binary people aged 13 + who are experiencing or have experienced any form of sexual violence in their lives. We offer a safe and non-judgmental space to women living, working, or studying across 7 of the North London boroughs.

Our expert team provides helpline support, advocacy (ISVA) and ISVA support. We also provide one to one and group counselling to victims and survivors as well as short-term one to one counselling support to supportive family and friends. It is an inclusive service which supports women and girls of all ages, disabilities, sexualities, gender identities (including trans and non-binary), and religions. The service operates from 9am to 5pm, however, appointments can be arranged outside of these if required.

About the Role

The role of the Brief Intervention Independent Sexual Violence Advocate (ISVA) – CSA/CSE is with the Rape Crisis service in North London. You will work within a multi-disciplinary team to provide a pro-active emotional, practical and advocacy support for survivors who have experienced any form of sexual violence and are engaging (or considering engaging) with the criminal justice system. The role of Brief Intervention ISVA – CSA/CSE will primarily be working with survivors who have experienced childhood sexual abuse and/or exploitation who cannot access immediate ISVA support. Where there is capacity, the role will also provide short term interventions (3 months) for survivors of other types of sexual violence.

About You

The ideal candidate will have completed ISVA training, or have a willingness to undertake ISVA training, and have experience of supporting women affected by sexual violence. You will be proactive and able to adapt to new situations quickly. You will have a clear understanding of the effects of and issues facing women who have experienced sexual violence, as well as understanding of the Criminal Justice System. You will be able to communicate with people from a range of backgrounds and create good working relationship with service users as well as partner agencies. 

What we can offer you

We provide a comprehensive benefits package to all our employees, including:

• Flexible working
• Focus on learning and development (internal career progression and training)
• Generous holiday entitlement
• Employer pension contribution
• Family-friendly leave and enhanced maternity pay
• Access to Inclusion Networks
• Daily clinical debriefing
• Employee Assistance Programme providing free 24/7 support and advice
• Employee Benefits Platform offering staff discounts, benefits and savings
• Flow & Restore yoga classes
• Meditation sessions
• Cycle to Work Scheme

How to apply

When applying for this role, kindly highlight in your Supporting Statement how your values, knowledge, transferrable skills, and experience align with each point within the following sections of the Job Profile Document:

• Values, Behaviours & Competencies
• Knowledge, Experience and Skills

Solace Women's Aid values diversity, promotes equity, and challenges discrimination. We encourage and welcome applications from candidates of diverse cultures, abilities, perspectives, and lived experiences. We have policies and processes in place to ensure that all employees are offered an equal opportunity in recruitment and selection, promotion, training, pay, and benefits. Our Inclusion Networks support staff with protected characteristics and offer inclusive spaces to connect.

We are a Disability Confident Employer and committed to an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. We anticipate and provide reasonable adjustments as needed and support employees who acquire a disability or long-term health condition, enabling them to stay in work.

This service is run by women for women and is therefore restricted to female applicants under the Equality Act 2010, Schedule 9, and Part 1. Section 7(2) e of the Sex Discrimination Act 1975 apply. The post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act.

As part of safer recruitment practices, we carry out pre-employment checks including references, Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and right to work in the UK checks.

No agencies.

Job Profile

Independent Domestic Violence Advocate – Male Victims

Do you want to join a committed and inspiring team? Do you want to help make a real difference every day?Do you want to contribute to change & improve the quality of lives of male survivors of domestic abuse?

If so then we are looking for a proactive and compassionate Independent Domestic Violence Advocate (IDVA) to join the Ashraya Project supporting Male Victims & Survivors. 

This role is hybrid, working from home and the office in London and also involves regular travel throughout the area.

Position: 6662 Independent Domestic Violence Advocate – Male victims

Location: Greater London

Hours: Monday to Friday - Flexible dependent on service delivery and client need

Contract: Fixed Term, until 31.03.27

Salary: Qualified: Total £32,383.00 per annum - (FTE £29,583.00 per annum plus £2,800.00 per annum London Weighting Allowance) Unqualified: Total £30,552.00 per annum - (FTE £27,752.00 per annum plus £2,800.00 per annum London Weighting Allowance)

Closing Date: 30th April 2026. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early, if enough suitable applications are received.

The Role

As an Independent Domestic Violence Advocate you will ensure that male survivors’ safety & housing needs are met.  You will provide specialist support at the moment of crisis, providing advocacy & support to access safe accommodation ensuring the safety, security & dignity of service users & their children.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure that male survivors’ safety and housing needs are met by supporting survivors to access safe accommodation
• Provide a pro-active, high quality, frontline service to victims of domestic abuse through on-going risk assessment, individual safety planning, advocacy, emotional and practical support.
• Work within a multi-agency framework consisting of the MARAC and local partnership responses to domestic abuse to keep safety central to all services for victims of domestic abuse
• Promote the service and raising awareness of issues arising, minimising barriers and improving access to support

About You

Ideally, you will have knowledge about legal remedies for domestic abuse victims and have experience working with drug, alcohol, and mental health issues. An understanding benefits, housing, and homelessness would also be beneficial.

You will need:

• Experience of providing support those affected by domestic abuse 
• An understanding of the principles of risk assessment, safety planning and risk management for victims of domestic abuse and their children
• Knowledge of safeguarding issues, and the legal responsibilities surrounding these issues.
• A good understanding of Housing Law to be able to provide up to date advice and information on housing related needs
• Strong communication, negotiation and advisory skills, both written and verbal when interacting with a range of agencies and individuals.
• An understanding of commitment to equal opportunities and diversity issues in policy and practice.
• Strong crisis management skills and the ability to deal with stressful and difficult situations.

We particularly welcome applicants who are male, as they are under-represented in the provision of support to domestic abuse victim survivors.

If you are passionate about supporting victims of crime and have the necessary skills and experience, we encourage you to apply.

In Return…

Benefits include:

• Flexible Working Options: Including hybrid working.
• Bonus: £500 bonus paid on successful completion of probationary period (pro-rata for part time roles)
• Generous Annual Leave: 28 days plus Bank Holidays, increasing to 33 days plus Bank Holidays, with options to buy or sell annual leave.
• Birthday Leave: An extra day off for your birthday.
• Pension Plan: 5% employer contribution.
• Enhanced Allowances: Enhanced sick pay, maternity, and paternity payments.
• Exclusive Discounts: High Street, retail, holiday, gym, entertainment, and leisure discounts.
• Financial Wellbeing: Access to our financial wellbeing hub and salary-deducted finance.
• Wellbeing Support: Employee assistance programme and wellbeing support.
• Inclusive Networks: Access to EDI networks and colleague cafes.
• Sustainable Travel: Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loans.
• Career Development: Ongoing training and support with opportunities for career progression.
• Practice Support: Clinical supervision and group reflective practice

About the Organisation

This independent charity provides a range of specialist services to people who have been affected by crime across England and Wales. Working 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 the charity is driven by the Vision Ambitions and Values to play their part in making a difference for those who experience crime and traumatic events.

As part of the commitment to the Race at Work Charter we particularly welcome applicants from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. The charity is also a Disability Confident Employer and provides 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 the selection process, the team will be happy to make reasonable adjustments to enable you to perform at your best.

You may have experience in areas such as Housing, Homelessness, Mental Health, Care, Outreach, Crisis, Family, Children, Housing Support Worker, Homelessness Support Worker, Mental Health Support Worker, Care Support Worker, Outreach Support Worker, Crisis Support Worker s, Family Support Worker, Children’s Support Worker, IDVA, IDVSA, Abuse, Advocate, Advocacy.

Please note this role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of our client.  #INDNFP

About Us 

Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid have for over 45 years supported women and children with services around domestic violence and abuse. Could you be a part of our team as we continue our mission to end domestic violence and abuse? 

The region’s leading charity in tackling violence against women and girls, BSWA offers a helpline, webchat, drop in and and community support as well as emergency accommodation in six refuges across the area.

Projects supports women in the criminal justice system, in healthcare settings, and throughout the community, offering support to women and children experiencing domestic violence. Alongside this, we also have staff offering training and consultancy to businesses and health and social care professionals alike, raising awareness on gender based violence issues.

We seek like-minded women to join our enthusiastic team of workers, all of us passionate about the vital and valuable work we do to support women and children who have experienced domestic abuse, and tackling the wider issues of violence against women and girls. 

Key Responsibilities -

To provide specialist expertise on DVA within the Public Protection Unit (PPU) and the local policing unit (LPU) across Coventry and Solihull police stations, covering Solihull Borough. This role will support the improvement of police practice by providing tailored guidance, advice, and professional support to officers and staff, strengthening their understanding of safe, trauma informed and appropriate interventions with women and children affected by DVA.

To provide information, support and signposting for women accessing WMP disclosing experiences of domestic violence/abuse.

Experience Required -

Influencing professional practice, including delivering training and awareness sessions 

Carrying out needs and risk assessments and support of women experiencing abuse 

Working within safeguarding guidelines to protect and promote the well-being of children and young people

Monitoring and evaluating projects

Benefits

• 31 days annual leave (excluding bank holidays) 

• Up to 6% matched pension contribution 

• Free access to Employee Assistance Programme 

• Life Assurance scheme while in employment (a lump sum of 4 times salary) 

• Cycle to Work scheme 

• Health Cash Plan scheme available to all employees from day one 

• Successful candidates may have the opportunity to work under hybrid working arrangements, subject to the role and to the terms of our Hybrid Working Policy 

BSWA is a Disability Confident Employer. We want everyone to have equal chance at being considered for our jobs. Should you be unable to submit your application online and would prefer an alternative method, or you are experiencing another barrier to completing your application, please contact us via our website.

These posts are covered by a Genuine Occupational Requirement (Schedule 9; Equality Act 2010) and women only need apply.

The closing date for receipt of completed applications is at 12 noon on Wednesday 6th May. Interviews will take place weeks commencing 18th May.

Are you looking for a dynamic and rewarding role working for an organisation with the feminist agenda at the core of its ethos? Then Advance Charity could be the career choice for you!

We are looking for a Mental Health IDVA

Salary: £27,000 - £32,000 depending on experience.

Location: Hammersmith

Hours: 35 Hours per week

Contract: Permanent

This post is open to female applicants only as being female is deemed to be a genuine occupational requirement under Schedule 9, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010.

Please note: Any offer of employment will be made subject to references, confirmation of the right to work in the UK, and satisfactory enhanced DBS check.

About us

Advance is an award-winning and innovative women-only organisation, established in 1998, providing emotional and practical support to women and girls survivors of domestic abuse and supporting women with short-term sentences to reduce offending. We believe in empowering women and girls to lead safe, non-violent, equal lives so that they can flourish and contribute to the community.

We are a community-based organisation who lead in best practice approaches to supporting women in their local community. We achieve this by being available to meet and support women in local settings and at our women’s centres, and by working in close partnership with other agencies.

Our values are to listen and support, to empower and respect, collaboration, innovation, and accountability.

About the role:

We work within a coordinated partnership response to violence against women and girls as part of the Angelou Partnership. Within the partnership ADVANCE provides independent domestic abuse advocacy and support for women, children and young people who have experienced domestic abuse.

As the Mental Health IDVA you will work within a dynamic, fast paced, crisis intervention, advocacy and support service to ensure the voice of survivors informs every stage of the process specialising in working with clients for whom mental health is a factor. You will work within the team to make proactive contact and provide high quality advocacy and support based upon a client led needs and risk assessment to women, focusing on working with those aged 18 and over who access the domestic abuse service.

You will be delivering one-off drop-in sessions for clients referred via LBHF Talking Therapies and we are aiming to expand these drop-in sessions to the other two boroughs in this new financial year (RBKC & WCC).

To be successful as the Mental Health IDVA you will need the below experience and skills:

You’ll need to have an excellent understanding of domestic abuse and its effects on women and children and of best practice within the domestic abuse sector. As an experienced domestic abuse advocate who has worked with complex and multiple needs, you will be skilled in risk management and safety planning, remaining calm in a crisis and in handling sensitive information on a daily basis. Experience of direct work with female survivors of domestic abuse, of supporting women involved in mental health services, and of working within safeguarding procedures is essential for this post, as is the need to adopt and promote a strong partnership approach to service provision.

In short, you will:

· Establish positive, proactive and innovative working relationships with mental health services and partner agencies.

· Provide high-quality crisis intervention, information, advocacy, and proactive support to women referred to the service, in respect to risk management and safety planning, criminal and civil remedies, housing, health, welfare rights, and children’s legislation.

· Assess the needs and risks of survivors, carry out short and longer-term risk management, safety planning and support and identify and refer to services appropriate to their needs.

· Advise women of their rights and options for seeking help and support from other agencies and proactively advocate to ensure barriers to accessing support and protection are reduced.

· Work with mental health service providers to introduce the service and encourage practitioners to identify domestic abuse, respond appropriately and refer to the service.

We recognise that women often only apply to roles if they meet 100% of the criteria. We encourage you to demonstrate how your skills and experience would make you an asset to the role, and if you don’t have the exact skills/experience, tell us in your cover letter how you think you might grow and develop in the role.

How to apply:

Please apply with an up to date copy of your CV and a cover letter via our careers site.

• Closing Date for Applications: Sunday 26th April 2026

• Interviews are taking place on a rolling basis

*Advance reserves the right to close the advert early, or on the appointment of a candidate.

What we can offer you - Employee Benefits:

• A 35-hour working week

• An exceptional 30 days of paid holiday per year (pro rata for part time), PLUS public holidays on top (that's nearly 40 days paid holiday per year!)

• Additional days off to celebrate International Women’s Day, and for religious observance and moving home

• Perkbox - an employee discount platform where you can receive free rewards as well as take advantage of savings on clothes, groceries, travel, leisure and more

• Pension scheme

• Enhanced maternity/adoption provision

• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme

• Employee eye-care scheme

• Clinical supervision for front line staff and first line management roles

• Refer a Friend Scheme - £250 for each referral who passes probation

• Organisation wide away days

• Thorough induction and training

• Career development pathways

**************************************************************

Under the Equality Act 2010, we are required to make any reasonable adjustments. If you have a disability as defined under this act and/or have special needs, please email the Talent Acquisition Team via the Advance website and will aim to make the necessary arrangements to accommodate your needs.

Diversity, Inclusion and Equal Opportunities

We are committed to providing equality of opportunity and actively seek to recruit people from groups underrepresented in our current team. We have policies and processes in place to ensure that all employees are offered an equal opportunity in recruitment and selection, promotion, training, pay and benefits.

Safeguarding

Advance is committed to safeguarding and creating a culture of zero-tolerance of harm and expects all staff, including volunteers to share this commitment. We believe all individuals have the right to live their life free from violence and abuse and the right to feel and be safe. We have a suite of safeguarding policies, procedures and practice guidance, accessible to all staff, which promotes safeguarding and safer working practices across all our services and activities. When we recruit staff, we follow rigorous safer recruitment practices, this involves carrying out pre-employment checks including references, Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, and identity checks. We ensure all staff undertake mandatory safeguarding training relevant to their role and responsibilities, to empower them to be competent and feel confident in recognising and responding appropriately to safeguarding issues and promote wellbeing.

Senior Caseworker – Pathways

Location: Disability Action & Advice Centre, 4, Waldegrave Road, Teddington TW11 8HT

Contract: Permanent, Full-time, 35 hours per week

Salary: £30,000 to £36,000 (depending on experience)

Ruils is run by, and for, Disabled people. We exist to remove the barriers that prevent Disabled people from living independent lives. Our vision is a society where all individuals have choice and control to live independently. We provide information, advice, advocacy, befriending and activities to our clients and their families.

Pathways is a specialised welfare advice service that provides information, advice, advocacy and representation for Disabled adults (over the age of 18) living in the Richmond Borough. We work with clients, supporting them to navigate the complex Housing, Benefits and Social Care systems. In this role, you would be providing information, guidance and advice to Disabled people and their families, enabling them to have more choice and control over their lives.

We are also part of a larger network of Disabled-led advice services. Working together, we have developed pathways for Disabled trainee case workers, collated data on Housing and Benefits issues and have fed into important consultations and campaigns.

This is a unique and rewarding opportunity for you to work one-to-one with clients to effect change, whilst also having a positive impact on the wider system.

We are looking for someone who:

• Will bring experience of supporting people with complex welfare, housing or social care issues.
• Is confident advocating on behalf of clients when needed.
• Has an understanding of the welfare benefits system, disability rights and the Social Model of Disability.
• Can break down complex information so it feels clear and manageable.
• Works in a calm, methodical way, keeping accurate records.
• Is compassionate, patient and values-driven.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide timely and accurate advice on welfare benefits, housing and social care to support Disabled people to live independently.
• Analyse clients’ situations, identify solutions and guide them through complex systems, signposting where appropriate.
• Work with clients on a short to medium term basis, helping with referrals, forms, letters, appeals and navigating processes.
• Support clients to gather evidence and prepare for Benefit or Housing applications and appeals, ensuring deadlines are met.
• Attend key meetings and appeals with clients, advocating for them and helping them put their case forward confidently.
• Develop accessible information resources (guides, bulletins) to help clients navigate health, care, benefits and housing systems.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with partners, contributing to forums, campaigns and shared problem-solving.
• Provide supervision and support to trainee caseworkers, including induction, case file reviews and contributing to their development.

What we can offer you:

• A vibrant and interesting work environment – every day is different.
• An experienced and supportive leadership team.
• Training and development opportunities.
• Flexible working.
• Kind and caring colleagues who work as a team.
• A cycle to work scheme.
• An employee assistance programme (EAP).

We operate a Guaranteed Interview Scheme. We will guarantee an interview to all Disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post. Please state in a cover letter if you wish us to consider you for this Guaranteed Interview Scheme.

A full Job Description and Person Specification can be downloaded below. To apply, please visit our recruitment page via the ‘Apply’ button

Closing date: 17 April 2026.

Interviews: 19 May 2026 (face-to-face).

We are looking for a new Independent Sexual Violence Advisor to join our team in providing advocacy and support to survivors of rape/sexual violence and sexual abuse.The ISVA will be based in our central Reading office, with the option of hybrid working. ISVAs will need to travel within Thames Valley to meet clients as required.

Main Purpose of the Role:

To provide advocacy and support to survivors of sexual violence.  The ISVA will support adults who have reported or are wishing to report this crime navigate the criminal justice system. The ISVA will work closely with the Police Service, Sexual Assault Referral Centre, CPS, and other relevant organisations. 

ISVA Main Duties

· Provide advice, guidance and information to adults who have experienced rape and sexual abuse.

· Support service users that have been referred to Trust House Reading.

· Support clients in making informed choices about their future options.

· Explain relevant criminal, legal and civil remedies and housing options to clients as required.

· Assess the risk and support needs of clients.

· Develop individual support plans to address risks /support needs of clients.

· Ensure that clients are aware of the services to which they are entitled and advocate for them to help them access services.

· Understand the legal framework relating to the protection of children and vulnerable adults including the policy and procedures in relation to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults.

· Support ISVA clients through the criminal justice system, explaining the procedures and their role and rights within that system, referring to Victim Support or the Witness Care Service as appropriate.

· Support the service user in making a witness statement and attending court.

· Keep the service user informed about case progress on behalf of the police in line with the requirements of the Service Code of Practice.

· Participate in case conferences with the police, CPS and prosecuting barrister.

· Assist clients accessing special measures.

· Liaise with the police, CPS and other service providers on behalf of the service user.

· Provide information and support in relation to Criminal Injuries Compensation.

· Help clients to develop their own support network.

· Refer on and arrange meetings with other agencies/services as necessary, for instance, sexual health services, mental health, drug and alcohol, counselling, housing etc.

· Actively and positively engage with other voluntary sector agencies, including sexual violence specialist agencies e.g. domestic violence service outreach, IDVA and refuge providers.

· Maintain and update records of all cases including initial referral, risk assessment, subsequent risk assessment, care and safety plans, and action taken.

· To understand and assess other support needs of clients, for example translation or interpretation needs and be fully aware of available resources.

· Where an assault is related to domestic violence and the client is assessed as high risk, refer on to Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conference (MARAC) following locally agreed protocols (including working proactively with the Independent Domestic Violence Advisor Service), attend and participate in meetings and follow-up on actions agreed in MARAC.

· Contribute to the development of policies, protocols, guidelines, strategies within practice area if necessary.

· Collate areas of service gap and service inadequacy to feed back to the commissioner and the relevant strategic groups.

· Note and feed back to the commissioner and the relevant strategic groups or other appropriate body any consistent difficulties clients are having accessing services.

ISVA Person Specification

Essential:

· Educated to A-level standard.

· Experience of working with vulnerable clients.

· Knowledge of the impact of rape/sexual violence and sexual abuse on service.

· Knowledge of the criminal justice system for survivors of rape and sexual abuse.

· Understanding of the principles of risk assessment and safety planning.

· Pro-active.

· Empathic, with a non-judgmental approach.

· A good listener.

· Strong crisis management skills.

· Understanding of the process of seeking help and barriers to seeking help.

· Good written and verbal communication skills.

· Ability to work on own without close supervision.

· Ability to manage caseload and work priorities.

· Ability to share sensitive information, adhering to protocols.

· Understanding of child protection and safeguarding issues and legal responsibilities.

· Willingness to undertake regular training.

· Willingness and ability to work with clients of all genders.

· Commitment to continued professional development.

· Knowledge of and commitment to diversity issues.

· Ability to work safely and within boundaries.

· Completed accredited ISVA training course (or equivalent) or willingness to complete the training.

· Willingness and ability to travel across the Thames Valley when necessary.

· Computer literate: word-processing, emailing, data collection/spreadsheets.

· Ability and willingness to work in partnership and as part of a team.

Desirable:

· Professional qualification in social work or related field.

· Current full driving license and own vehicle.

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 a new Team Leader to join our team in.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.

About the role? 

We have an exciting opportunity for a Team Leader to join our team covering a variety of health boards.You will be a passionate supporter of quality driven, outcome centric, advocacy provision and in coaching others to achieve the exacting standards of excellence in advocacy required to support our clients. 

About you 

We are looking for a strong and resilient leader with experience of managing a team. Desirably you will have worked or volunteered in a welfare, supporting role, or caring for adults or young people who have support needs.

You will be committed to driving high performance and practice standards by actively engaging with our Practice Management team to interpret data. Thereby, making informed decisions and ensuring that the highest standards of advocacy are achieved. 

You will ensure a culture of learning and continuous development through a mix of team and supervision meetings, and reflective practice. 

You will be experienced in managing risks relating to the safety and wellbeing of staff members and the safeguarding of service users.

How will you make a difference? 

You will be responsible for ensuring your team delivery of the highest standards of advocacy, ensuring that all contact with clients is outcome driven. 

You will support your team and ensure that they have the necessary skills to make a difference in peoples lives on a daily basis.Assisting them to grow in confidence and empowering them to assist those in need of support. 

You will work resourcefully and collaboratively with people across the organisation to assist you and your team, fostering a learning culture where all views are respected. 

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 the People Team for further options. 

About Us 

Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid have for over 45 years supported women and children with services around domestic violence and abuse. Could you be a part of our team as we continue our mission to end domestic violence and abuse? 

The region’s leading charity in tackling violence against women and girls, BSWA offers a helpline, webchat, drop in and and community support as well as emergency accommodation in six refuges across the area.

Projects supports women in the criminal justice system, in healthcare settings, and throughout the community, offering support to women and children experiencing domestic violence. Alongside this, we also have staff offering training and consultancy to businesses and health and social care professionals alike, raising awareness on gender based violence issues.

We seek like-minded women to join our enthusiastic team of workers, all of us passionate about the vital and valuable work we do to support women and children who have experienced domestic abuse, and tackling the wider issues of violence against women and girls. 

Key Responsibilities - 

To bring expertise around DVA into the MASH teams within Solihull Childrens services to improve practice, providing guidance and support to professionals to build understanding of safe and appropriate interventions with women and children.

To provide information, support and signposting for women supported by Solihull Children’s Services disclosing experiences of domestic violence/abuse.

Experience Required - 

Influencing professional practice, including delivering training and awareness sessions

Carrying out needs and risk assessments and support of women experiencing abuse 

Working within safeguarding guidelines to protect and promote the well-being of children and young people 

Monitoring and evaluating projects

Benefits

• 31 days annual leave (excluding bank holidays) 

• Up to 6% matched pension contribution 

• Free access to Employee Assistance Programme 

• Life Assurance scheme while in employment (a lump sum of 4 times salary) 

• Cycle to Work scheme 

• Health Cash Plan scheme available to all employees from day one 

• Successful candidates may have the opportunity to work under hybrid working arrangements, subject to the role and to the terms of our Hybrid Working Policy 

BSWA is a Disability Confident Employer. We want everyone to have equal chance at being considered for our jobs. Should you be unable to submit your application online and would prefer an alternative method, or you are experiencing another barrier to completing your application, please contact us via our website.

These posts are covered by a Genuine Occupational Requirement (Schedule 9; Equality Act 2010) and women only need apply.

The closing date for receipt of completed applications is at 12 noon on Wednesday 6th May. Interviews will take place weeks commencing 18th May.

Team Leader - Carer Peer Support (Adult Mental Health)

£34,101 FTE, pro rata 28 hours per week, great benefits!

We are looking for someone to join our local, independent Carer-led charity, someone who has their own personal story of caring, able to use that lived experience as well as their professional skills and knowledge to help others. The postholder will collaborate extensively with our funding partner, South West London and St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust, as well as other charity delivery partners to improve the identification of, and support for, unpaid family and friend Carers of adults with mental health needs. The work may also involve identifying children and young people in caring roles and brokering access to our Young Carers Support team.

As well as leading a small, part-time team of Carer Peer Support Workers, you will work alongside them, providing front-line, individual and group dedicated support (practical, social and clinical interventions). As well as coordinating services to assist Carers with their own wellbeing needs, you will enable Carers to provide well-informed care for their friends and family. You also will be our representative for the MH Trusts’ Triangle of Care Steering Group.

About Us 

Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid have for over 45 years supported women and children with services around domestic violence and abuse. Could you be a part of our team as we continue our mission to end domestic violence and abuse? 

The region’s leading charity in tackling violence against women and girls, BSWA offers a helpline, webchat, drop in and and community support as well as emergency accommodation in six refuges across the area.

Projects supports women in the criminal justice system, in healthcare settings, and throughout the community, offering support to women and children experiencing domestic violence. Alongside this, we also have staff offering training and consultancy to businesses and health and social care professionals alike, raising awareness on gender based violence issues.

We seek like-minded women to join our enthusiastic team of workers, all of us passionate about the vital and valuable work we do to support women and children who have experienced domestic abuse, and tackling the wider issues of violence against women and girls. 

Key Responsibilities -

To plan and implement high quality support and advocacy services for women affected by domestic violence who are deemed as being high risk.

To work within a multi-agency framework to ensure the safety of women is prioritised.

Experience Required- 

Providing practical and emotional support to women and children affected by domestic violence. 

Offering advice and information and advocating for service users on a range of issues including homelessness, benefits, legal, social welfare issues etc. 

Developing and maintaining effective working relationships with external agencies 

Working within safeguarding guidelines to protect and promote the well-being of children and vulnerable adults. 

Benefits

• 31 days annual leave (excluding bank holidays) 

• Up to 6% matched pension contribution 

• Free access to Employee Assistance Programme 

• Life Assurance scheme while in employment (a lump sum of 4 times salary) 

• Cycle to Work scheme 

• Health Cash Plan scheme available to all employees from day one 

• Successful candidates may have the opportunity to work under hybrid working arrangements, subject to the role and to the terms of our Hybrid Working Policy 

BSWA is a Disability Confident Employer. We want everyone to have equal chance at being considered for our jobs. Should you be unable to submit your application online and would prefer an alternative method, or you are experiencing another barrier to completing your application, please contact us via our website. 

These posts are covered by a Genuine Occupational Requirement (Schedule 9; Equality Act 2010) and women only need apply.

The closing date for receipt of completed applications is at 12 noon on Wednesday 6th May. Interviews will take place weeks commencing 18th May.