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Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
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.
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The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Be Part of Meaningful Change
Rape Crisis South London (RCSL) is entering an exciting new chapter. With a new CEO, refreshed Senior Leadership Team, and an ambitious vision for the future, we are laying the foundations for a bold new organisational strategy.
We are now seeking an Brief Intervention ISVAto join our Advocacy Team at this pivotal time on a fixed term contract for 2 years.
As a specialist charity supporting survivors of sexual violence across twelve South London boroughs, we provide counselling, group therapy, advocacy, prevention education, and professional training. With an annual income of approximately £4 million, we are growing and strengthening our infrastructure to better serve survivors and communities.
About the Role
We are seeking a Brief Intervention ISVA to deliver rapid, flexible, trauma‑informed support to survivors. This role ensures survivors receive immediate, equitable assistance while navigating the criminal justice system or waiting for longer-term support.
What You’ll Do
- Provide short‑term crisis intervention (up to 3 months)
- Offer emotional, practical, and advocacy support
- Support survivors through all stages of the criminal justice process
- Deliver rapid‑response support and bridge waiting lists
- Manage a dynamic caseload, including intake and short‑term cases
- Work collaboratively with multi‑agency partners
- Apply robust safeguarding for adults and young people (13+)
- Uphold feminist, survivor‑centred values in all practice
About You
Essential
- ISVA qualification
- Experience supporting survivors of sexual violence or VAWG
- Strong understanding of the criminal justice system
- Skilled in risk assessment, safety planning, and managing complex caseloads
- Excellent communication skills with survivors and professionals
- Knowledge of safeguarding (adults & children)
- Strong organisational and administrative skills
Desirable
- Experience working with marginalised or under‑served communities
- Knowledge of housing, welfare benefits, or related legislation
What You Bring
- Commitment to feminist, survivor‑led practice
- Anti‑racist, anti‑discriminatory values
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Commitment to learning, reflection, and self‑care
Safeguarding and Safer Recruitment
Rape Crisis South London is committed to safeguarding survivors and service users. The post holder will contribute to maintaining the organisation’s safeguarding standards.
This includes:
- Promoting the safety and wellbeing of children, young people and adults at risk
- Identifying and reporting safeguarding concerns
- Following organisational safeguarding policies and procedures
- Supporting a culture where everyone feels safe, respected and supported
Our safer recruitment processes include:
- Values-based interviews
- Verification of identity, qualifications and employment history
- Reference checks
- Enhanced DBS checks where required
- Safeguarding training and supervision
- Equality, Feminist Commitment and Values
Rape Crisis South London is an equal opportunities employer. We particularly welcome applications from women who are under-represented in leadership roles within the violence against women and girls (VAWG) sector.
Our work is grounded in feminist principles, recognising sexual violence as both a cause and consequence of gender inequality. We centre survivor voices and prioritise empowerment, inclusivity and intersectionality.
Intersectionality and Reasonable Adjustments
We recognise that experiences of sexual violence are shaped by intersecting factors such as:
- Race and ethnicity
- Disability
- Sexuality and gender identity
- Socioeconomic background
- Immigration status
- Faith and culture
We are committed to removing barriers and creating an inclusive workplace.
Applicants are encouraged to let us know if they require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, such as:
- Alternative interview formats or timings
- Additional time for written tasks
- Accessible documentation
- Support relating to disability, neurodivergence or health needs
Learning and Development
As a charity undergoing transformation and growth, we welcome colleagues who are committed to continuous learning and professional development.
Interview Process
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview, conducted via MS Teams.
Stage one: MS Teams with the Director of Programmes and two other panel members.
The whole process from advertisement to appointment, may take up to 3 -4 weeks.
The role will initially be open for two weeks (until 12:00 noon on Wednesday 16 April 2026). However, due to the urgent need for support, applications will be reviewed and interviews arranged on a rolling basis, so early applications are encouraged.
The interview will explore experience and approach to:
- Safeguarding
- Equality, diversity and inclusion
- Wellbeing and feminist practice
- Trauma-informed therapeutic work
- Leadership responsibilities relevant to the role
This post is open to women only (Schedule 9, Paragraph 1, Equality Act 2010).
We particularly welcome applications from women underrepresented in leadership roles in the VAWG sector. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
How to apply
Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role to in PDF format
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Registered Charity
Providing specialist support to women and girls who have experienced rape and/or childhood sexual violence and abuse.
