Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA)

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and committed Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) to provide proactive, short- to medium-term crisis intervention, advice and advocacy to victims and survivors of domestic abuse.

The successful candidate will work closely with service users, their children and a range of partner agencies to assess risk, develop effective safety plans and ensure individuals receive the appropriate support to help them remain safe and regain control of their lives.

This is a varied role involving direct support, safeguarding, MARAC, multi-agency working, advocacy and awareness-raising.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide proactive short- to medium-term crisis intervention, support and advice to victims and survivors of domestic abuse.

• Assess the risks and needs of service users using evidence-based risk identification tools and checklists.

• Ensure service users receive appropriate support based on their level of risk and individual circumstances.

• Develop personalised safety and support plans and work with partner agencies to implement these effectively.

• Advocate on behalf of service users to help them access appropriate services, support and entitlements.

• Identify and address barriers that may prevent individuals from accessing support.

• Empower victims and survivors to understand the dynamics of domestic abuse and regain control of their lives.

• Provide information regarding housing, civil and criminal legal options, enabling service users to make informed choices.

• Support victims through the Criminal Justice System, explaining procedures, rights and available support.

• Identify high-risk cases and make appropriate referrals to MARAC.

• Participate in MARAC meetings, provide updates, complete relevant documentation and follow up agreed actions.

• Work in accordance with safeguarding procedures where there are concerns relating to children or vulnerable adults.

• Attend and contribute to multi-agency safeguarding meetings where required.

• Maintain effective communication with partner agencies and ensure changes in circumstances are shared appropriately.

• Make referrals and coordinate meetings with relevant services to ensure the safety and wellbeing of service users remains central.

• Follow lone-working procedures when undertaking face-to-face work with service users.

• Manage and prioritise an allocated caseload effectively.

• Maintain accurate, confidential and up-to-date case records using the IDVA case management system.

• Participate in case reviews and team meetings, providing updates on case progress and outcomes.

• Support the development and delivery of domestic abuse training and awareness sessions for frontline professionals.

• Attend promotional and community events to provide information and advice about domestic abuse and available support.

• Contribute to the ongoing development and improvement of services, policies and procedures.

• Maintain confidentiality and comply with Local Authority data protection requirements.

• Undertake relevant professional development and training, including completion of a recognised IDVA qualification where required.

About You

The ideal candidate will have:

• Experience working directly with victims and survivors of domestic abuse.

• Strong knowledge of domestic abuse, risk assessment and safety planning.

• Experience of safeguarding children and/or vulnerable adults.

• Experience of multi-agency working and partnership coordination.

• Knowledge and experience of MARAC processes and high-risk domestic abuse cases.

• Strong advocacy and communication skills.

• The ability to manage a complex caseload and prioritise effectively.

• An understanding of the housing, civil and criminal justice options available to victims of domestic abuse.

• Experience supporting individuals through the Criminal Justice System would be advantageous.

• A strong understanding of confidentiality, information sharing and data protection.

• The ability to work sensitively and respectfully with individuals who may experience additional barriers to accessing support.

• A commitment to empowering victims and survivors and promoting their independence and safety.

Key Skills

Domestic Abuse | IDVA | Risk Assessment | Safety Planning | MARAC | Safeguarding | Advocacy | Crisis Intervention | Multi-Agency Working | Criminal Justice | Case Management | Victim Support | Partnership Working