Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA)

Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA)

Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) - Male Victims

We have a rewarding opportunity for a compassionate, resilient and highly organised person to provide frontline support to high-risk male victims of domestic abuse, helping them access safety, advocacy and specialist support.

If you've also worked in the following roles, we'd also like to hear from you: IDVA, Domestic Abuse Support Worker, Domestic Violence Advisor, Victim Support Worker, Domestic Abuse Practitioner, Safeguarding Support Worker, Advocacy Worker, Caseworker, Domestic Abuse Caseworker

The organisation is looking for a qualified / unqualified IDVA (training may be provided for the right candidate)

Applications are welcome from individuals of all genders who can demonstrate a deep understanding of the unique barriers faced by men seeking support for abuse.

SALARY: £25,282 to £28,861 per annum (dependent upon qualifications and experience) + Benefits

LOCATION: Covering the Black Country area

JOB TYPE: Full-Time, Permanent

WORKING HOURS: 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. Some work outside normal office hours may be required

JOB OVERVIEW

This is a rewarding opportunity to join the organisation's specialist male abuse referral service, providing trauma-informed, client-centred support to male victims of interpersonal abuse.

As the Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) you will support high-risk victims of domestic abuse by assessing risk, explaining options, developing safety plans and advocating within a multi-agency framework.

The Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) will work with clients through telephone and face-to-face contact, helping them recognise the dynamics of abuse and regain control of their lives.

The Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) will also contribute to MARAC processes, safeguarding forums, case review meetings and partnership working with external agencies.

Training may be provided for the right candidate.

DUTIES

Your duties as the Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) include:

• Risk Assessment and Safety Planning: Receive referrals for high-risk male victims of domestic abuse, complete risk and needs assessments, explain the MARAC process and develop tailored safety plans
• Client Advocacy: Provide practical and emotional support, advice and information to male victims through telephone and face-to-face contact
• Multi-Agency Working: Work with partner agencies, safeguarding professionals and internal colleagues to advocate for clients and support effective referrals
• MARAC and Safeguarding Reports: Prepare accurate reports for MARAC, case conferences and safeguarding forums, representing the voice of the victim where required
• Casework Management: Maintain accurate records, manage a caseload effectively and ensure all case administration is kept up to date
• Empowerment and Group Work: Support victims to understand the dynamics of domestic abuse and facilitate group work where required
• Safeguarding: Identify safeguarding concerns involving children or vulnerable adults and report issues promptly to the manager
• Service Development: Contribute to service user feedback, partnership working, quality standards, internal procedures and good practice development

CANDIDATE REQUIREMENTS ESSENTIAL

• Qualification or training equivalent to a minimum Level 3 education standard in a relevant subject, such as health and social care
• Experience of working with vulnerable adults and children, including recognising and responding to safeguarding concerns
• Experience of complex casework, trauma, crisis intervention, risk assessment, support planning and needs-led support
• Knowledge of domestic abuse dynamics, interpersonal violence, barriers to accessing support, safeguarding, risk management and safety planning
• Ability to communicate effectively, advocate for vulnerable people and build positive relationships with partner agencies
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including concise report writing and presenting at multi-agency meetings
• Ability to manage a caseload, work to deadlines, remain calm under pressure and maintain professional boundaries
• Confident using Microsoft Office, databases and virtual platforms including Word, Excel, Outlook and Teams
• A client-centred, non-judgemental and anti-discriminatory approach, with empathy, resilience, integrity and compassion
• Eligible to work in the UK

DESIRABLE

• IDVA qualification or previous experience within an IDVA or domestic abuse advocacy service
• Previous experience of facilitating group work or awareness sessions
• Understanding of motivational interviewing techniques
• Full driving licence and access to a vehicle

BENEFITS

• Training and development opportunities
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Access to group clinical supervision with a BACP trained counsellor
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Annual leave buy back scheme
• Time off in lieu (TOIL)
• 5% employer pension contribution

This role requires a DBS check

JOB REF: AWDO-P15070