Vulnerable victims advocate jobs
We are looking for a proactive and compassionate Independent Domestic Violence Advocate (IDVA) to support male victims and survivors of domestic abuse. This role is full-time and is based at the Victim Support office in Old Street with some opportunity for home working.
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.
- 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 an Independent Domestic Violence Advocate you will provide pro-active, high quality, frontline service to male victims of domestic abuse through on-going risk assessment, providing individual safety planning, trauma-informed support, guidance, information, and advocacy and enabling victim/survivors to access the services they need in the aftermath of the abuse and trauma they have experienced.
You may make initial contact with victims of crime, explaining our services and assessing the impact of crime, or receive referrals from colleagues, in order to provide on-going support and case management. You will work within a multi-agency framework consisting of the MARAC and multi agency partners when required. This role requires a specialist understanding of the barriers faced by male victims of domestic abuse and harmful practices.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assess risks and needs using evidence-based checklists.
- Focus on high-risk cases with short to medium-term crisis intervention.
- Assist high-risk victims in accessing safety services.
- Deliver tailored support and information.
- Understand legal frameworks for protecting children and vulnerable adults.
- Provide advocacy on legal, housing, health, and financial options.
- Empower clients to recognize domestic abuse dynamics.
- Participate in Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conferences (MARAC).
- Work with a team to deliver respectful, dignified, and sensitive services.
- Maintain accurate and confidential case records.
- Comply with data protection laws and organizational policies.
- Stay updated with procedures, policies, and professional codes.
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 of benefits, housing, and homelessness would also be beneficial.
You will need:
- Strong understanding of domestic abuse and its impact.
- Demonstrate proficiency in English, both verbally and in writing.
- Experience in statutory, voluntary, or multi-agency settings.
- Competency in risk and needs assessment frameworks.
- Understanding of safeguarding issues.
- Direct service delivery experience to victims or vulnerable people.
- Ability to manage complex caseloads and prioritize work.
- Strong crisis management skills.
- Effective communication, negotiation, and advisory skills.
- Commitment to equal opportunities and diversity.
Please note that we are committed to provide support where victims can choose to be supported by someone of their own gender and so this post is open to male applicants only as being male is deemed to be a genuine occupational requirement under Schedule 9, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010.
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 will offer an interview to disabled candidates who meet all essential criteria for a job where it is practicable to do so. We are also happy to make reasonable adjustments during the recruitment and 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.
We are looking for a proactive and compassionate Independent Domestic & Sexual Violence Advocate (IDSVA) to support victims and survivors of domestic abuse within a hospital setting in conjunction with Sexual Health London. This role is full-time to on a temporary contract. The role is based at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital along with some working from the Victim Support office in Old Street and some home working.
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.
- 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 an Independent Domestic & Sexual Violence Advocate you will provide pro-active, high quality, frontline service to victims of domestic and sexual abuse through on-going risk assessment, providing individual safety planning, trauma-informed support, guidance, information, and advocacy and enabling victim/survivors to access the services they need in the aftermath of the abuse and trauma they have experienced.
You will work within a hospital setting to support both patients and staff. You will make initial contact with victims of domestic and sexual abuse, explaining our services and assessing the impact of crime, or receive referrals from colleagues, in order to provide on-going support and case management. Support could include empowering the client to report to the police, accessing Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) services, and specialist support such as pretrial therapy and sexual violence counselling.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assess risks and needs using evidence-based checklists.
- Focus on high-risk cases with short to medium-term crisis intervention.
- Assist high-risk victims in accessing safety services.
- Deliver tailored support and information.
- Understand legal frameworks for protecting children and vulnerable adults.
- Provide advocacy on legal, housing, health, and financial options.
- Empower clients to recognize domestic abuse dynamics.
- Participate in Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conferences (MARAC).
- Work with a team to deliver respectful, dignified, and sensitive services.
- Maintain accurate and confidential case records.
- Comply with data protection laws and organizational policies.
- Stay updated with procedures, policies, and professional codes.
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 of benefits, housing, and homelessness would also be beneficial.
You will need:
- Strong understanding of domestic and sexual abuse and its impact.
- Demonstrate proficiency in English, both verbally and in writing.
- Experience in statutory, voluntary, or multi-agency settings.
- Competency in risk and needs assessment frameworks.
- Understanding of safeguarding issues.
- Direct service delivery experience to victims or vulnerable people.
- Ability to manage complex caseloads and prioritize work.
- Strong crisis management skills.
- Effective communication, negotiation, and advisory skills.
- Commitment to equal opportunities and diversity.
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 will offer an interview to disabled candidates who meet all essential criteria for a job where it is practicable to do so. We are also happy to make reasonable adjustments during the recruitment and 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.
Be part of something new! Be a voice! Build change!
We are recruiting for motivated, values-driven advocates to join a new, innovative community gender-based abuse support service in Southwark. This is not a traditional role. You will support people of all genders and help shape a service built around prevention, creativity, and community voice.
The Role
You will work directly with people in community settings, carrying out risk and needs assessments, creating safety plans and using trauma-informed and coaching approaches. You’ll be part of a fast-paced, dynamic team working in new and flexible ways.
About You
We’re looking for people who are:
• Confident, reliable, and proactive
• Creative, solutions focused and adaptable
• Passionate about prevention and community-led work
• Strong at building trust and relationships
Experience in VAWG (violence against women and girls), domestic abuse, sexual violence or safeguarding is helpful, but your mindset, values and reliability matter most. We will provide full training, induction and support.
If you want purpose, challenge, and the chance to help build something new, this role is for you.
How to apply
If you are interested in applying, please:
1 – Download a copy of our standard application form
2 – Return a completed copy.
3 – Include a covering letter up to 2 pages long, explaining how you meet the Person Specification for the role. The job description and person specification is available online
Deadline for applications is midnight, Sunday 11th January 2026.
Interviews will be held on 20th and 21st January 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be asked to complete a short written test on the day of interview.
Bede works with children and adults at risk of harm, and we have Safer Recruitment policies and procedures in place to ensure that they are protected from abuse. These roles are subject to an enhanced DBS check.
IDVA, Southwark, SE London
Salary: £28,860 FTE, review pending and rising with experience
Location: Southwark
Hours: 35hrs/week. Jobholders work with colleagues to cover core service hours of 8:00 am to 6:00pm, Monday to Friday.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We are looking for an Independent Sexual Violence Advocate (ISVA) to support and empower adult survivors of sexual violence and abuse.
They will offer practical and emotional support and advice to survivors, helping them to understand and access their rights and any other services they might require. They will also help keep service users safe and support them through the criminal justice system, should they choose to report, which includes liaising with the police and other criminal justice agencies and keeping survivors informed of case progress.
This post is part of a countywide ISVA team providing a pro-active service to children, young people and adult survivors of sexual violence and abuse, within and outside of the criminal justice system.
Please note: It is an occupational requirement that the post holder is female, in line with the Equality Act 2010, Schedule 9, Part 1, Paragraph 1.
Providing specialist emotional, therapeutic and advocacy support to women and girls across Cambridgeshire impacted by sexual violence and abuse.

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We are looking for a proactive and compassionate Hospital Independent Domestic Violence Advocate (IDVA) to support victims and survivors of domestic abuse within a hospital setting. This role is full-time to provide maternity cover. The role is based at West Middlesex Hospital along with some working from the Victim Support office in Old Street and some home working.
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.
- 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 an Independent Domestic Violence Advocate you will provide pro-active, high quality, frontline service to victims of domestic abuse through on-going risk assessment, providing individual safety planning, trauma-informed support, guidance, information, and advocacy and enabling victim/survivors to access the services they need in the aftermath of the abuse and trauma they have experienced.
You may work within a Hospital Trust's Safeguarding Team to support both patients and staff in an Acute Hospital setting, who have experienced Domestic Abuse. You will make initial contact with victims of domestic abuse, explaining our services and assessing the impact of crime, or receive referrals from colleagues, in order to provide on-going support and case management.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assess risks and needs using evidence-based checklists.
- Focus on high-risk cases with short to medium-term crisis intervention.
- Assist high-risk victims in accessing safety services.
- Deliver tailored support and information.
- Understand legal frameworks for protecting children and vulnerable adults.
- Provide advocacy on legal, housing, health, and financial options.
- Empower clients to recognize domestic abuse dynamics.
- Participate in Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conferences (MARAC).
- Work with a team to deliver respectful, dignified, and sensitive services.
- Maintain accurate and confidential case records.
- Comply with data protection laws and organizational policies.
- Stay updated with procedures, policies, and professional codes.
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 of benefits, housing, and homelessness would also be beneficial.
You will need:
- Strong understanding of domestic abuse and its impact.
- Demonstrate proficiency in English, both verbally and in writing.
- Experience in statutory, voluntary, or multi-agency settings.
- Competency in risk and needs assessment frameworks.
- Understanding of safeguarding issues.
- Direct service delivery experience to victims or vulnerable people.
- Ability to manage complex caseloads and prioritize work.
- Strong crisis management skills.
- Effective communication, negotiation, and advisory skills.
- Commitment to equal opportunities and diversity.
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 will offer an interview to disabled candidates who meet all essential criteria for a job where it is practicable to do so. We are also happy to make reasonable adjustments during the recruitment and 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.
We have an exciting opportunity for Independent Witness Advocates to join the Pre-trial witness support service, working 37.5 hours a week.
This role requires working from our Victim Support London office on Tuesday & 4 days home based, however travel to London courts will be required throughout the week to attend Pre-trial visits.
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.
- 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:
These roles are offered on a hybrid working basis, 1 day per week from our London Singer Street office (every Tuesday). The remaining 4 days per week will be home-based but there will still be the requirement on these days to travel to London courts to deliver pre-trial visits. Therefore, it is essential the travel distance from surrounding counties outside of London is within 30 minutes to London.
As an Independent Witness Advocate you will:
- Lead on providing pre-trial, outreach & post-trial support for witnesses; ensuring their pre and post-trial needs are assessed and a plan for support is put in place so they can attend court to give their best evidence
- Provide advocacy, support in court, and emotional/practical support around their physical, mental, social or financial wellbeing
- Liaise with criminal justice partners to ensure witnesses are kept up to date with arrangements for attendance at court and where applicable, ensure special measures have been granted
- Provide practical and emotional support in a way that is approachable, flexible and caring, showing empathy at all times
- Need to be tenacious in support of your clients and being able to solve problems and surmount the challenges posed by the criminal justice system
Please see attached Job Description and Person Specification for further details.
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 will offer an interview to disabled candidates who meet all essential criteria for a job where it is practicable to do so. We are also happy to make reasonable adjustments during the recruitment and 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.
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!
Are you passionate about supporting victims of domestic abuse and making a real difference in their lives? Join our hardworking and dedicated team as an Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA).
As an IDVA you will provide support to standard and medium risk victims of domestic abuse helping them to increase their safety and make informed choices for their future.
Key Responsibilities
• Conduct risk assessment and complete individualised safety and support plans with clients
• Provide support tailored to the needs of your clients either by telephone or face to face
• Advocate for clients with external agencies such as legal services, housing and the courts
• Co facilitate wellbeing and domestic abuse awareness groups
You will need to be a compassionate and resilient professional with:
• A minimum of an A level, NVQ3 or equivalent, a degree or SafeLives / IDVA qualification
• Comprehensive knowledge of domestic abuse, it's impact and relevant legislation
• Excellent communication, advocacy and problem solving skills
• Experience of working with victims of domestic abuse
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable individuals
• Able to travel across Bedfordshire
We do not provide visa sponsorship; you must be eligible to work in the UK. You must reside in the UK for the duration of your employment and provide Right to Work evidence.
As some of our roles involve working with vulnerable members of society, this position may require a Basic or Enhanced Criminal Disclosure, which will be conducted once a conditional offer is made (For thisparticular role we will require a police vetting check)
Previous Applications: We welcome applications from all qualified candidates. However, if you have applied for a similar role within the last 6 months and were not successful, please consider whether your experience has developed further before reapplying
Accessibility & Adjustments: We are committed to making reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and will strive to be as accommodating as possible. Please inform us in advance of any arrangements you may need to fully participate in the process.
At One YMCA we are an inclusive organisation and actively promote equality of opportunity for all with the right mix of talent, skills, and potential. We do not discriminate on the basis of Age, Disability, Gender Reassignment, Marriage/Civil Partnership, Pregnancy/Maternity, Race, Religion/Belief, Sex and/or Sexual Orientation. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, communities, and industries, and are committed to having a team that is made up of diverse skills, experiences, and abilities
One YMCA's mission is to create supportive and energizing communities where young people can belong, contribute, and thrive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Children & Young Persons Independent Victim Advocate to join the Children & Young People team in Warwickshire , working 37.5 hours a week.
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.
- 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.
About the role:
As a Children & Young Persons Independent Victim Advocate you will:
- Provide one to one support to children and young people
- Proactively promote the service, raise awareness of services & work collaboratively with professionals to improve the access to and quality of services for children & young people.
- Play a vital role in ensuring we provide high quality, end-to-end support to children & young people to help them to recover from the effects of crime.
- Undertake risk and needs assessments to address the specific needs of the client in line with VS operating procedures.
- Follow relevant safeguarding policies and procedures, working with safeguarding leads and other agencies to ensure an integrated approach to address any safeguarding concerns.
You will need:
- Experience of working with children and young people.
- Strong communication skills
- A good understanding of the impact of Domestic Abuse
This role involves regular travel and due to the location, 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.
Please see attached Job Description and Person Specification for further details.
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 will offer an interview to disabled candidates who meet all essential criteria for a job where it is practicable to do so. We are also happy to make reasonable adjustments during the recruitment and 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.
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!
FearFree delivers services across the Southwest for victims, children and perpetrators of domestic abuse, sexual violence and stalking with the aim to break the cycle of abuse and support all to live free from fear. We provide trauma responsive support, and this post will be fundamental to ensuring service users, stakeholders and partners experience this in our daily delivery.
Our Triage Team act as the front door into our service working within a multi-disciplinary team to provide triage and early intervention support to individuals of all ages and risk levels affected by domestic abuse, sexual violence, stalking, including those with harmful behaviours.
This varied and rewarding role involves providing trauma responsive support to our service users as well as advice and support to partner agencies through our dedicated duty line. Our duty line operates Monday to Friday 9.00am – 5.00pm and allows for service users and professionals to get a quick response from our service.
FearFree is committed to flexible and hybrid working and this role will be a mix of home based and office based, alongside requiring travel for multi-agency meetings and other deliverables.
This role may include evening and weekend work when required.
Key Responsibilities
Working with Vulnerable People and Risk Management
- Provide a trauma-responsive service to individuals of all ages and risk levels who have been affected by domestic abuse, sexual violence and stalking including those with harmful behaviors.
- Demonstrate specialist knowledge of domestic abuse, sexual violence, stalking and behaviour change including the associated risks to victims, perpetrators, and the wider family unit.
- Offer advice, guidance, and emotional and practical support to individuals of all ages and risk levels affected by domestic abuse, sexual violence and stalking.
- Support those who harm abuse by providing information, guidance, and risk assessments using specialist tools.
- Assess, manage, review risks to service users, using tools such as the DASH risk assessment, SOAG and RIC. Providing risk reduction and safety planning advice.
- Respond to emergencies and crisis situations, including suicidal ideation and the need to access a place of safety.
- Make safeguarding referrals to appropriate agencies including Children’s Social Care, Adult Social Care, mental health crisis teams, and MARAC.
- Work sensitively with service users to share and explain MARAC outcomes and other safeguarding decisions.
- Manage and support service users via telephone of all risk levels in line with service values.
- Safeguard the health and welfare of service users and their families at all times.
Team and Multi-Agency Working
- To be the advisory point of contact for colleagues across all areas of our support offer.
- Offer professional advice and support to multi-agency partners and stakeholders.
- Work closely with statutory and voluntary agencies to enhance safety, support and safeguarding.
- Make referrals to and maintain positive working relationships with external agencies.
- Feedback information related to service users’ needs, risk concerns, and trends to the appropriate team manager.
- Support effective team operations with a proactive, flexible approach, including covering for staff absences.
Administrative and Operational Duties
- Provide a responsive support service with high-quality customer care.
- Answer telephone calls, respond to voicemails and referrals, and carry out triage, assessments and action as appropriate.
- Assist with referral processes and early interventions, including contacting other agencies and coordinating appointments.
- Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential written and digital records, including identifying service user needs and risk information.
- Assist with monitoring and evaluation procedures and contribute to the production of reports.
General
- Live and embody the FearFree values.
- Promote the service to external agencies where applicable.
- Give information and support to service users regarding their other needs and refer them to other support services as required.
- Ensure our service is widely accessible – adapting practice as required to suit individuals.
- Work across a large geographical area to ensure locality is not a barrier to accessing services.
- Deliver training and information sessions to promote our service, and increase awareness and understanding of domestic abuse, sexual violence and stalking for victims and those who harm.
- Have a responsibility around safeguarding of both adults and children, maintaining knowledge of appropriate policies and procedures and integrated working.
- Support other agencies in the identification and referral of domestic abuse, sexual violence and stalking issues via promotion of service and institutional advocacy.
- Ensure all referrals are clearly logged on our database and all case records are kept fully updated, according to FearFree policies and procedures.
- Engage with case management supervision, reflective practice and clinical supervision as required, taking an active role in managing own wellbeing and supporting the wellbeing of your colleagues.
- Support colleagues in all services across FearFree as required.
- Support the sustainability of the organisation by participating in fundraising activities and sharing ideas and contacts for income generation.
- To engage in and contribute to effective team working with a flexible and pro-active approach, including cover for other team members’ holidays and sickness.
- Undertake all statutory and mandatory training, as required by the organisation.
Application
To apply, please download the full job description/person specification along with the application and equality monitoring forms. Please send the completed application form and optional equality monitoring form direct to FearFree.
There is no specific closing date for this role and this vacancy will close once a suitable candidate is found, so early applications are encouraged.
For information about the processing of your personal data at FearFree, please visit our website.
FearFree is committed to encouraging equality and diversity in the workplace. We strive to be a diverse and inclusive place to work where we can all be ourselves and individual differences are recognised and valued.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
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 have an exciting opportunity for a Homicide Family Caseworker to join our team, you will be based in London, with a primary focus on West London, working 37.5 hours a week. The team you will be joining within the Homicide Service covers London and South East.
Do you want the unique opportunity to work in a fast-paced service, delivering exceptional support to families bereaved by and witness to homicide, coordinating a tailored package of support to service users and their families?
Would you enjoy working closely with Police Major Crime teams providing briefings on the work we do in the Homicide Service (HS)?
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:
You will be joining a passionate and committed team who provide high quality and bespoke support to service users. We pride ourselves on exceptional trauma informed advocacy and support to all service users. You will be driven to make a difference every day with the ability to focus on the needs of vulnerable service users. You will have resilience and adaptability; understand the importance of professional boundaries; have excellent listening skills and the ability to demonstrate empathy. You will enjoy the challenge of a busy caseload and will be able to demonstrate the excellent organisation skills essential to managing a demanding and diverse workload.
Once in post you will benefit from the mandatory comprehensive training programme which will build on your existing skills and experience to prepare you for the role. Homicide Service training includes, criminal justice process; trauma informed approach to support; supporting traumatically bereaved families; personal and professional resilience.
As a fully trained Homicide Family Caseworker you will be responsible for managing your own complex caseload to the highest quality standards.
You will need to be able to travel to home visits within Central London, and occasionally outside of area, and therefore 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.
You will need:
- an understanding of the impact of crime on victims.
- effective verbal and written communication skills.
- a proven track record of successfully delivering services and working directly within a statutory, voluntary or multi agency setting(s).
- the ability to balance competing needs and priorities.
- to be able to work independently and as part of a team.
- a successful track record of building effective working relationships across internal and external stakeholders
Please read carefully the attached Job Description and Person Specification for further details, this is essential for your application.
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 will offer an interview to disabled candidates who meet all essential criteria for a job where it is practicable to do so. We are also happy to make reasonable adjustments during the recruitment and 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.
We are currently looking for a Senior Service Manager to oversee safe houses based in Liverpool, Manchester and Halton areas. This role is a chance to combine your leadership skills, compliance excellence and compassion.
In the role you will:
- Lead and Inspire: Manage and motivate a dedicated team, ensuring they receive high quality supervision, training, and support.
- Champion Safety & Quality: Take ownership of Health & Safety compliance, safeguarding standards, and quality assurance measures including CQC and internal audits.
- Drive Operational Excellence: Oversee budgets, payroll, and service delivery with a focus on efficiency and high standards.
- Empower Survivors: Ensure service users receive the care and advocacy they need to rebuild their lives.
What we are looking for:
- Proven experience in team management and compliance within a care or support setting.
- Strong knowledge of Health & Safety, safeguarding, and quality frameworks.
- Excellent communication, organisational, and IT skills.
- Experience in modern slavery support is desirable, but not essential as training will be provided.
About Us
Medaille Trust is one of the leading providers of support to survivors of modern slavery and human trafficking in the UK. We are working to provide refuge and freedom for survivors and fighting to see slavery in all its forms become a thing of the past. The need for this work has never been higher, there are more than 50 million estimated victims of modern slavery worldwide, and over 120,000 potential victims in the UK.
We operate ten safe houses and five outreach hubs, staffed round the clock by specialist staff, working with more than 600 men, women and dependent children each year. We work to raise awareness in the UK and to provide preventive work in source countries. Our Pursue work helps survivors to engage with police and within the legal system to seek justice and to secure convictions against their perpetrators.
Closing Date: Monday, 29 December 2025 at 10:00 A.M.
Interview Date: TBC
Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we reserve the right to interview/ appoint before the closing date. Early applications are therefore strongly encouraged.
This role is a subject to satisfactory Disclosure & Barring Service checks.
The ability to drive with a valid licence with use of own vehicle insured for business purposes is essential.
Medaille Trust's mission is to provide refuge & freedom from modern slavery. One of UK's leading providers of support for survivors of modern slavery.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
FearFree delivers services across the Southwest for victims, children and perpetrators of domestic abuse, sexual violence and stalking with the aim to break the cycle of abuse and support all to live free from fear. We provide trauma responsive support, and this post will be fundamental to ensuring service users, stakeholders and partners experience this in our daily delivery.
Based within the Wiltshire Domestic Abuse Service, the IDVA team works within a multi-agency system to provide a trauma responsive, person centered independent service for victims of domestic abuse, empowering choice through informed decision making. You will hold a case load of high-risk victims, working proactively to support them and their families.
FearFree is committed to flexible and hybrid working and this role will be a mix of home based and office based, alongside requiring travel for multi-agency meetings and other deliverables.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide a high-quality service to those at the highest risk.
- To provide practical and emotional support to service users, working jointly with them to carry out, implement and review needs assessments and support plans.
- To understand and work effectively within a multi-agency framework, consisting of the MARAC and local partnership responses to domestic abuse, in order to reduce the risk for service users and their families.
- Identify and assess the risks and needs of service users using an evidence-based risk identification checklist.
- Work with high-risk service users to help them access services, to keep them and their children safe.
- Advocate for high-risk service users with agencies who can help to address the domestic abuse.
- Understanding the role of all relevant statutory and non-statutory services available to service users and how your role fits into them.
- Providing information to service users in relation to legal options, housing, health and finance.
- Develop and maintain working relationships with all key agency partners to address the safety of high risk service users ensuring their needs are met and safety plans are coordinated particularly through the MARAC.
- Manage a case load ensuring each person receives the appropriate support, tailored to their needs.
- Support the empowerment of the service user - assisting people to recognise the features and dynamics of domestic abuse present in their situation, and help them regain control of their lives.
- Support service users to maintain existing accommodation and to advocate on their behalf, in order to access accommodation and additional support.
- To recognise, respect and address the needs of service users who face barriers when seeking help to access the service, including those from different ethnic and cultural backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ communities, disabled people, those with complex needs and other groups which services have found difficult to reach.
- Provide practical and emotional support in relation to criminal and civil remedies, housing, health, education, employment, welfare benefits, counselling, legal aid and children’s support.
- Accompany service users, when needed, to other relevant agencies and support them in their interactions with these agencies.
- Respect and value the diversity of the community in which the services work in, and recognise the needs and concerns of a diverse range of survivors ensuring the service is accessible to all.
General Responsibilities
- Live and embody the FearFree values.
- To promote the service to external agencies where applicable.
- Give information and support to service users regarding their other needs and refer them to other support services as required.
- Ensure our service is widely accessible – adapting practice as required to suit individuals.
- Work across a large geographical area to ensure locality is not a barrier to accessing services.
- Deliver training and information sessions to promote our service, and increase awareness and understanding of domestic abuse, sexual violence and stalking for victims and those who harm.
- Have a responsibility around safeguarding of both adults and children, maintaining knowledge of appropriate policies and procedures and integrated working.
- Support other agencies in the identification and referral of domestic abuse, sexual violence and stalking issues via promotion of service and institutional advocacy.
- Ensure all referrals are clearly logged on our database and all case records are kept fully updated, according to FearFree policies and procedures.
- Engage with case management supervision, reflective practice and clinical supervision as required, taking an active role in managing own wellbeing and supporting the wellbeing of your colleagues.
- Support colleagues in all services across FearFree as required.
- Support the sustainability of the organisation by participating in fundraising activities and sharing ideas and contacts for income generation.
- To engage in and contribute to effective team working with a flexible and pro-active approach, including cover for other team members’ holidays and sickness.
- Undertake all statutory and mandatory training, as required by the organisation.
Application
To apply, please download the full job description/person specification along with the application and equality monitoring forms. Please send the completed application form and optional equality monitoring form direct to FearFree.
There is no specific closing date for this role and this vacancy will close once a suitable candidate is found, so early applications are encouraged.
For information about the processing of your personal data at FearFree, please visit our website.
FearFree is committed to encouraging equality and diversity in the workplace. We strive to be a diverse and inclusive place to work where we can all be ourselves and individual differences are recognised and valued.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We have an exciting secondment opportunity for a Case Manager to provide maternity cover as part of the Drive Project in Lancashire. Drive in Lancashire currently covers Blackpool, Wyre, Fylde, Lancaster and Morecambe.
The Drive Partnership, formed by Respect, Safelives, and Social Finance is working to transform the national response to perpetrators of domestic abuse. They work to end domestic abuse and protect victims by disrupting challenging and changing the behaviour of those who are causing harm. Together they have developed the Drive Project to address a gap in work with high-harm, high-risk perpetrators of domestic abuse. They also work to advocate for systems and policy change - to develop sustainable, national systems that respond more effectively to all perpetrators of domestic abuse.
By supporting individuals to make meaningful changes, the role also contributes to improved quality of life and safer outcomes - helping offenders to move away from the criminal justice system.
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.
- 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 Case Manager you will strive to make contact and work on a one-one basis with perpetrators to pro-actively secure engagement, influence attitudinal and behavioural change and link to complementary services. To do this you will work alongside existing agencies to design a co-ordinated, intervention plan, addressing identified needs and risk, and promoting understanding of the impact of abusive behaviours.
You will work closely with the IDVA's (integrated partner support) to review risk, develop safety plans, and improve outcomes for all parties involved. You will be passionate and committed to working within a multi-disciplinary team and will have a demonstrable track record of working with complex need service users. This may be within the field of domestic abuse and /or mental health, substance misuse and offending.
This role involves regular travel and due to the location, 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. All client related travel will be reimbursed.
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.
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!
Free To Fly is a registered charity supporting expectant mothers to leave abusive relationships and protect their unborn babies. Following successful fundraising and network-building in Portsmouth, they have appointed Charisma to support the recruitment of a Charity Manager, to lead and launch their Portsmouth project.
As their first paid employee, the Charity Manager, reporting to the Board of Trustees, will lead the day to day operational, strategic and business functions of the charity. You will be agreeing budgets and managing finances (with support and input from our Board and accountants), recruiting and mentoring volunteer teams, ambassadors, and future paid team members, driving fundraising via corporate partnerships, individual giving, events, and other income streams. With a responsibility for ensuring the charity’s sustainability, growth, and impact you will be the face and voice, representing the charity at meetings, events and in the media.
The successful candidate will be:
- Experienced in charity operations, including finance, HR, marketing, and fundraising, with a strong understanding of policy compliance and development.
- Responsible for increasing funding, driving growth and impact.
- Trauma informed and skilled in safeguarding and survivor support, with experience working sensitively with victims/survivors of abuse and protecting vulnerable adults and children.
- Excellent communicator and networker, able to build strong partnerships and represent the charity with professionalism and empathy.
- Organised, analytical, and self-motivated, with proven leadership ability, high computer literacy (Microsoft 365), and a results-focused, KPI-driven approach.
- Values-led and committed to growth, demonstrating flexibility, reliability, and alignment with the charity’s ethos and commitment to continuous development.
You will be based in Portsmouth, willing to travel and work occasional unsociable hours, with your own vehicle covered by business use insurance. This is a home-based role, and it is essential that you can work in a private working space with secure WIFI.
An Enhanced DBS check is also required (exempt under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974).
For more information, please contact Louise Portnall, Recruitment Consultant, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Your application should be submitted through the Charisma website and include your CV including full work history, and supporting statement.
Please note: If you are passionate about Free to Fly’s mission and believe you have the right skills to carry out this role although you do not meet all the essential criteria, but you feel that you satisfy the majority of these, please do apply. Please include a recognition of the areas where you are aware that you do not meet the criteria in your supporting statement.
We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law.
Please note that in accordance with paragraph 1 of Schedule 9 to the Equality Act 2010, this role within the charity is subject to an occupational requirement to recruit only an individual who is biologically female, due to the specific nature of the duties involved.
Closing date: 17th January 2026
Applications are being reviewed by Charisma on a rolling basis, so please apply without delay to avoid disappointment.


