Independent victims advocate jobs

We currently have an opportunity for an Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) to join the team in Luton. This role is for 30 hours per week to cover maternity leave with the option of hybrid working from our Luton office and home.

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

Do you have resilience & 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 the role:

As in Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) you will support victims of domestic abuse who primarily live in Luton. This role will be part of our other wider specialist services covering Bedfordshire.

As an IDVA you will be:

• Providing a high quality support and advocacy service to victims of domestic abuse.
• Managing a caseload; identifying and assessing risks and needs, providing a tailored crisis intervention service trough individual safety planning, advocacy, emotional and practical support.
• Working with other agencies and advocating on behalf of service users in order to help them access services to keep them safe.
• Working within a multi-agency framework consisting of partners as well as MARAC and other local partnerships to offer a coordinated response to domestic abuse.
• Promoting the service and raise awareness of domestic abuse through the delivery of training
• Supporting the Daily Domestic Abuse meeting in the IFD (Integrated Front Door), which discusses all

You will need:

• Experience of working in support and advocacy with victims of domestic abuse
• To be able to prioritise work and deal with competing or conflicting demands/needs and interests and promote organisation interests and values.
• To ideally hold a SafeLives IDVA accreditation, relevant degree, vocational qualification or relevant experience of delivering a service and working with domestic abuse victim's/service users in a statutory, voluntary or community work setting.

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 look 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.

Victim Support are looking for a full-time Victims Advocate to work on our Anti-Social Behaviour Project based in the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea.

This role is working full time 37.5 hours per week and is offered on a fixed term basis until the end of March 2026.

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

Do you have resilience & 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 the Role:

This role is based in the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea. As a Victim Advocate you will:

• Support victims of Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) and Hate Crime.
• Collaborate with funders and partners to ensure optimal outcomes for victims.
• Provide specialist advocacy for victims with both complex and non-complex needs.
• Assist vulnerable, high-risk, and repeat victims of ASB.
• Engage in community work, liaise with the commissioner, and attend face-to-face appointments.
• Attend the monthly ASB MARAC (JAG) Meeting.

You will need:

• Experience working with vulnerable individuals and those affected by ASB and crime.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office for data recording and reporting.

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 look 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.

We are looking for a skilled practitioner to work in a new 'Pathfinder' team to support victims of domestic abuse going thought the Family Court process.

Advocacy and good written and verbal communication skills are essential.

This role is full time & based in Stoke-on-Trent but will be expected to travel to courts across the County. The role is initially fixed-term until 31st March 2026, but we expect further funding for the project to continue into 2026/27 and beyond.

We are looking for a skilled practitioner to work in a new 'Pathfinder' team to support victims of domestic abuse going thought the Family Court process. Advocacy and good written and verbal communication skills are essential. This role is full time & based in Stoke-on-Trent but will be expected to travel to courts across the County. The role is initially fixed-term until 31st March 2026, but we expect further funding for the project to continue into 2026/27 and beyond.

What we offer

At Victim Support, we are committed to attracting and retaining the best talent. Our competitive rewards and benefits package includes:

• Flexible Working Options: Including hybrid working.
• 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.
• Welcome Bonus: £500 on successful completion of probation period.
• 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.

About the Role

As a Family Court IDVA you will take referrals from CAFCASS to arrange support for victims of domestic abuse entering or going through family court proceedings.

Key Responsibilities:

• Direct support to victims of domestic abuse and coercive and controlling behaviour.
• Report writing for CAFCASS and other partners.
• Monitoring and recording activity and outcomes measured.

About You:

Ideally, you will have:

• - A good understanding around the issues of domestic abuse and its implications for children and young people
• - Knowledge of family court proceedings
• - Ability to write concise, factual, effective reports
• - Experience of developing and maintaining effective working relationships

You will need:

• Training for IDVA accreditation (to be provided if do not have already)

This role involves regular travel and due to the locations, a driving license and access to a vehicle is considered an essential requirement. If you are unable to drive because of a disability, please indicate this in your application in your personal statement so we can explore the feasibility of alternative arrangements.

About Us:

Victim Support is an independent charity dedicated to supporting people affected by crime and traumatic incidents in England and Wales. We put them at the heart of our organisation and our support and campaigns are informed and shaped by them and their experiences.

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.

At Victim Support, we're proud to celebrate diversity and create a workplace where everyone feels they belong. We're committed to being an antiracist organisation, and we actively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, including those from Black and Asian and other minoritised communities.

As a Disability Confident Employer, we offer a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for disabled candidates who meet the essential criteria. We are also happy to make reasonable adjustments during the selection process.

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 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.

Victim Support is recruiting for an Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) to support high risk victims of domestic abuse living in Central Bedfordshire. This is a full time role on a fixed term contract until 31st March 2026, which may be extended subject to funding. Hybrid working would be available for this role.

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

Do you have resilience & 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 the role:

We are looking for an Independent Domestic Violence Advocate (IDVA). This is a full time role on fixed term contract. Hybrid working would be available for this role. The aim of this role is to support victims of domestic abuse who live in Central Bedfordshire. This role will be part of our other wider specialist services covering Bedfordshire.

As an IDVA you will be:

• Providing a high quality support and advocacy service to victims of domestic abuse.
• Managing a caseload; identifying and assessing risks and needs, providing a tailored crisis intervention service trough individual safety planning, advocacy, emotional and practical support.
• Working with other agencies and advocating on behalf of service users in order to help them access services to keep them safe.
• Working within a multi-agency framework consisting of partners as well as MARAC and other local partnerships to offer a coordinated response to domestic abuse.
• Promoting the service and raise awareness of domestic abuse through the delivery of training

You will need:

• Experience of working in support and advocacy with victims of domestic abuse is advantageous
• To be able to prioritise work and deal with competing or conflicting demands/needs and interests and promote organisation interests and values.
• To ideally hold a SafeLives IDVA accreditation, relevant degree, vocational qualification or relevant experience of delivering a service and working with domestic abuse victim's/service users in a statutory, voluntary or community work setting.

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.

We have an exciting opportunity for an Independent Domestic Violence Advisor covering the Tamworth Area to join the New Era team working 37.5 hours per week. The role will focus on the identifying risk and meeting the needs of those affected by domestic abuse. The role will be covering the Tamworth area but travel pan Staffordshire will be required.

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

Do you have resilience & 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 the role:

This role will work across Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent, but will be based in our Stafford office. Hybrid working is considered following our mandatory six month probationary period. Travel across the whole of Staffordshire will be required.

As an IDVA you will be asked to:

• 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
• Promoting the service and raising awareness of issues arising, minimising barriers and improving access to support

You will need:

• Experience of providing support those affected by domestic abuse
• Experience of undertaking need and risk assessments and creating safety plans
• Experience of the MARAC and other partnership processes
• Experience of multi agency working

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 look 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.

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

Job Title: IDVA

Location: Hertfordshire
Salary: £20,777.13 per annum
Contract type: Part time, Permanent

Hours: 27

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 26 August 2025

Interview date: 2 September 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.

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.

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 2 September 2025

Interview date: 8 September 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.

Job Title: Duty Independent Gender Violence Advocate (Duty IGVA)

Location: Lambeth, London
Salary: £23,085.69 per annum, inclusive of London weighting allowance 
Contract type: Part Time, Permanent 

Hours: 30 hours per week (Tuesday-Friday). Please note that the the operating hours of the service are 8AM- 6PM Monday- Friday with the expectation to work on some days 8- 4pm or 10- 6pm to cover. 

This is an opportunity to join Refuge as a Duty Independent Domestic Violence Advocate to be the first point of contact for women who are impacted by domestic violence. You will work closely with victims of domestic abuse from the point of crisis and other gender-based abuse to provide high quality independent support to survivors all risk levels and their children..

In this role you will be part of a busy team. You will be the first point of contact for survivors who have been referred to the Gaia Centre. The duty IGVA will be responding to daily enquiries (specify from whom- public, agencies, individuals? over the phone and email as well as contacting survivors, assessing their risks and needs.

The duty IGVA will be responsible for carrying out and implementing safety plans and needs and will ensure an effective handover to the over to the relevant GAIA team for ongoing support. The post holder will also empower survivors by providing them with emotional, practical and personal welfare support. You will ensure that survivors 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.

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

Please note that 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 3rd September 2025

Interview Date: 11 and 12 September 2025

We are seeking a Manager  of ISVA for our Advocacy service. If you are an experienced ISVA looking for a rewarding new role and overseeing the Advocacy serviceRespond has an exciting opportunity for you.    

The Advocacy Services Manager has responsibility for managing and developing Respond’s advocacy services for young people and adults with learning disabilities, autism or both who have experienced trauma and abuse. The postholder works alongside the Psychotherapist services manager to deliver best practice services as well as improving practice across the advocacy sector. 

This is an opportunity to join Refuge as a Health IGVA supporting women and children who are impacted by different strands of Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG). You will work closely with victims of VAWG from the point of crisis, to provide high quality independent advocacy and support to survivors of VAWG at the highest risk and their children.

The Health IGVA will train and provide ongoing support to GP practices and other health professionals and providers to enable primary and secondary care staff to be able to effectively talk to their patients about gender based abuse and different strands of Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG): including Domestic abuse and violence (physical, sexual, emotional,  psychological, economic or tech abuse)​​, Sexual Violence (Rape and sexual assault​)​, Stalking and harassment ​, Sexual exploitation ​​(including women working in sex industry and Child Sexual Exploitation)​​, Female genital mutilation (FGM)​/cutting , Forced marriage​​, So-called ‘honour’-based abuse, provide early identification and offer appropriate care pathways for survivors of all genders, aged 16 years and over and their children, living, working or/and studying in Lambeth.

The post holder will work in partnership with the local Integrated Care Board (ICB) and the Gaia Service Manager to proactively develop and maintain links with health providers in the local area and build links with health professionals and support agencies. 

The job involves working within a multi-agency framework consisting of the Multiagency Risk Assessment Conference (MARAC) and local partnership protocols and procedures that prioritise the safety of survivors. The post holder will empower survivors by providing them with emotional, practical and personal welfare support.

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 4 September 2025

Interview Date: 18 and 19 September 2025

Job Title: Housing Independent Gender Violence Advocate (Housing IGVA)

Location: The GAIA Centre (Lambeth, London)
Salary: £28,857.12 per annum (Inclusive of London Weighting, which may not be applicable depending on your home location and any agreed permanent homeworking arrangement)
Contract type: Full time, Permanent

Hours: 37.5 hours per week

The Housing Independent Gender Violence Advocate (IGVA) will be embedded within borough housing teams to facilitate the dual working that will ensure that survivors’ safety and housing needs are met. This includes:

· Close working relationships with Housing colleagues 

· Provision of specialist knowledge relating to DA for Housing Officers and Homelessness Teams to draw on 

· Specialist support for survivors at the moment of crisis 

· Provision of advocacy; supporting survivors to access safe accommodation 

· Ongoing support from the IGVA from wider DA service, including access to group clinical supervision, casework management meetings, reflective practice sessions, one-to-one supervision from service manager 

The Housing IGVA 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 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, housing and practical options that might increase their safety. The post holder will empower survivors by providing them with emotional, practical and personal welfare support especially around complex housing needs.

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.

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 26 August 2025

Interview Date: 4 and 5 September 2025

We are looking for an Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) to join our friendly team of ISVAs at RASASC Guildford. This is a full time position - 5 days/week (35 hours), but we would consider 4 days/week (28 hours) for the right person. 

We are committed to equal opportunities, and we warmly encourage applications from all sections of the community particularly applicants from diverse groups.

RASASC is a registered charity which has been providing support to survivors of rape and sexual abuse of all genders (both recent and non-recent) and young people aged over 13, from across Surrey since 1992.

We provide an Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) Service. ISVAs support survivors to help them overcome the abuse they have suffered and to rebuild their lives. This service also includes supporting the survivor to seek justice through the judicial system, should the survivor wish.

We also provide one-to-one counselling, group work, youth counselling, a support line, and a family support programme.

Volunteers are an important part of the work we do. Volunteers staff our support line  and many of our qualified counsellors work on a voluntary basis with survivors of rape and sexual abuse.

ISVA

ISVAs are survivor-focused advocates, who support survivors of recent and non-recent rape and sexual abuse to enable them to access the services they need in the aftermath of the abuse they have experienced. An ISVA provides individual support and this will vary from client to client.  

This role is based at the RASASC Guildford office and will work across Surrey. The ISVA must have a full driving licence and use of a car that can be used for work purposes.

You will be part of a dedicated, experienced, and friendly team. The ISVAs meet fortnightly for peer support and work collaboratively with each other to share knowledge. Each ISVA has a lead area of responsibility in addition to your caseload supporting a range of clients.

You will be provided with monthly clinical supervision and attend monthly one-to-one meetings with the ISVA team leader.

We welcome applications from all candidates but are particularly looking for those who can demonstrate the experience listed in the essential criteria of the person specification, and especially from those who can evidence the desirable skills and/or have an existing ISVA qualification.

Job Description

• To support survivors of rape and sexual abuse.
• It is the responsibility of the ISVA to impartially advise the client on all options open to them, such as the Criminal Justice System, SARC, sexual health clinic and other local services.
• The ISVAs are expected to balance a caseload that includes survivors progressing through the criminal justice process as well as survivors that have decided not to report, or who are no longer in the criminal justice process.
• The ISVA will be based at Guildford RASASC but will be expected to travel throughout Surrey.
• The ISVA is expected to carry out other duties from time to time which are broadly consistent with those in this document, as the job description cannot cover every issue which may arise within the post. 

Key Tasks

· The ISVA will provide a survivor-focused, independent service, distinct from the role of a crisis worker or counsellor.

· Undertake risk assessment and support needs analysis with survivor and develop a support plan for the survivor.

· To provide advice and support across a wide range of issues, such as housing, health and education, that will help to support the survivor and ensure their ongoing safety in the aftermath of the abuse.

· Manage caseload and maintain necessary case files and records including monitoring information as required under funding conditions and by RASASC.

· To provide expert advice and support in relation to issues and the impact of rape and sexual abuse on this client group to other members of the ISVA team as well as the wider RASASC team. 

· The ISVA will be required to undertake accredited training specifically designed to support them in delivering this service. This training is currently delivered virtually but subject to change, possibly face to face in Rugby or Manchester over six modules. Each module is taught over two consecutive days to minimise the amount of time ISVAs are away.

· Fulfil relevant monitoring processes as requested by the ISVA Team Leader or the Fundraising Manager.

· to attend monthly one to one supervision with team leader and monthly clinical supervision 

Personal Specification

Experience:

Essential

• Excellent interpersonal skills and communication skills
• Excellent organisational skills and a proven ability to prioritise workload, including time management skills
• Experience of working with vulnerable people
• Knowledge and understanding of child and vulnerable adult protection procedures and information sharing protocols
• Handling confidential information
• Ability to work on your own and as part of a small team in a busy and challenging environment
• Full driving licence and car that can be utilised for work purposes.

Desirable

• Case Management skills – ability to accurately maintain records
• Crisis management skills – including risk management
• Knowledge and commitment to multi-agency partnership working.
• Experience of delivering presentation/training.
• Experience of working with survivors of rape and sexual abuse and an understanding of the variety of issues affecting survivors

In return, we can offer you 25 days annual leave (pro rata for part time hours, eight public holidays (pro rata for part time hours) contributory pension scheme and reimbursement of travel expenses at 45p per mile.

Application

We are committed to equal opportunities, and we warmly encourage applications from all sections of the community particularly applicants from diverse groups.

1st Interviews will be held on Tuesday 30th September, and should you be short listed you will be invited to interview on Tuesday 7th October at our offices in Guildford.   

If you are interested in joining our team or if you have any questions about the role, please do give us a call as we would love to hear from you, or please complete the application form.

This recruitment will close by Friday 12th September at 12 NOON 

How to Apply: Please download the application form from RASASC Guildford's website.

Youth Realities is a youth and survivor-led charity based in Barnet, addressing teenage relationship abuse through creative education and specialist, survivor-centred support.

Youth Realities aims to: 

• Reduce abuse within teenage relationships 

• Increase awareness of teenage relationship abuse through education

• Empower young people’s personal development & growth

• Provide advocacy and trusted support for young survivors

Our vision is a world where young people live free from relationship abuse and violence. Our mission is to end relationships abuse by working with young people to provide specialist spaces for prevention, intervention and healing.

Job Title: Peripatetic IDVA

Service/Division: Domestic Abuse Services

Reporting to: Mobilisation and Implementation Manager

Direct reports:  None

Salary: £26,000 - £32,000 per annum

Hours: 35 hours (1-2 days per week working from home depending on placement)

Location: Various locations across London; including some time spent in Hammersmith

Contract Type: Permanent

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

Advance is committed to equality and diversity and strongly encourages applications from women with diverse backgrounds, including those with disabilities, BAME and LBT communities.

Job Summary

Advance delivers nationally accredited, high quality domestic abuse services across London. Advance's domestic abuse services are community based and include local authority commissioned advocacy services, co-located projects in a range of settings such as housing and children’s social care, and specialist projects for victim/survivors with different intersecting needs including children and young people.

As a Peripatetic Independent Domestic Violence Advocate (IDVA), you will provide front line support across Advance’s domestic abuse services, covering vacancies across teams to ensure service delivery remains effective and consistent. You will cover a range of roles all involving advocacy and support of people experiencing domestic abuse; some roles may also involve co-locating with partner agencies, delivering training or undertaking triage and assessment work. Your office location and pattern of work will change depending on your placement however all roles offer the opportunity for some hybrid working.

This role is an excellent opportunity to develop skills, knowledge and experience in a range of settings and would suit someone who is passionate about advocating for victim/survivors of domestic abuse. You will thrive in fast-paced environments and enjoy the diversity of working across a range of roles within different teams. An excellent understanding of domestic violence and its effects on women and children is essential, alongside some past experience working directly with victim/survivors of domestic abuse.

About You

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

You will have an excellent understanding of domestic violence and its effects on women and children and of best practice within the domestic abuse in various areas of need, with particular knowledge of safeguarding and legislation. As an experienced domestic violence advocate who has worked with complex and multiple needs, the post holder 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 violence, of supporting women with child safeguarding, needs, 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.

How to apply:

Please submit your up-to-date CV with a supporting statement. Please note that only applications made via the job advert on the Advance careers page, and those that include a cover letter will be considered. 

· Closing Date for Applications: Thursday 11th September 2025* 

· Interviews are taking place w/c 22nd September

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

What we can offer you - Employee Benefits:  

· 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

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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.