We are Hestia. We make a difference.
At Hestia, we are guided by our core values and are dedicated to fostering an equitable, diverse, and inclusive organisation. Our mission is to empower individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve independence. Right now, we are looking for an Independent Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Advocate to play a pivotal role in our Central Service in London.
The Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Prevention Team, sits within the wider Fundraising and Communications directorate, delivers the UK SAYS NO MORE campaign and Everyone's Business.
Everyone's Business works with employers to deliver a domestic abuse and sexual violence response to their employees along with offering a range of tools and resources such as the Everyones Business Respond to Abuse Advice Line, a training package and an employee IDVA and ISVA service. The team have worked with approximately 250 employers ranging from large multi-national companies to statutory organisations and local authorities.
Sounds great, what will I be doing?
The role involves providing both emotional and practical support to survivors of domestic abuse, sexual violence, and other forms of gender-based violence, including those at high risk. This includes completing DASH risk assessments and tailoring support to each survivor's individual needs. The postholder responds to referrals from employees with lived experience of abuse through the Everyone's Business IDSVA service and acts as the lead IDVA/ISVA for some contracted business partnerships. They work closely with businesses adopting IDVA/ISVA services and are responsible for maintaining and updating business development plans as required.
A key part of the role includes building relationships and raising awareness with partner organisations through meetings and training, and working collaboratively with criminal and civil justice agencies, health services, SARCs, police, courts, social care, and other voluntary sector organisations. The role includes conducting needs and risk assessments, developing individual safety and support plans, and acting as a single point of contact for survivors throughout their journey, whether or not they choose to report to police. It also includes multi-agency advocacy and attendance at MARACs, always maintaining a trauma-informed and survivor-focused approach.
What do I need to bring with me?
You'll need to be able to demonstrate the core skills this role requires as well as match our values and mission. You don't have to tick all the boxes right away; the important thing is that you're willing to learn. We also value lived experience of the areas we support, so if you feel comfortable, please do mention this on your application.
Here's what the team will be looking for
The role requires an ISVA or IDVA qualification or equivalent relevant experience supporting individuals affected by domestic abuse or sexual violence, along with a willingness to undertake further training. A strong understanding of the impact of domestic and gender-based violence on survivors and their children is essential, as is experience in risk assessment, safety and support planning, and providing both emotional and practical support, including guidance on legal remedies.
The ideal candidate will have experience working with employers to respond to domestic and sexual violence, as well as a good understanding of safeguarding responsibilities and trauma-informed practice. Knowledge of intersectionality, diversity, and equality is important, along with experience participating in the MARAC process and working within a multi-agency framework.
The role also demands excellent administrative and time management skills, confidence working independently, and the ability to remain calm and resilient under pressure. Proficiency in using digital systems to accurately record casework and prior experience in delivering presentations or training sessions are also required.
Interview Steps
We keep our interview process simple, so you know exactly what to expect.
* Shortlisting call: We have a team of dedicated recruitment specialists who will speak to you about your experience, motivations and values. They will also tell you about all the great work we do!
* Face to face interview: Now you will have face to face interview with the hiring manager. Our interviews are value and competency based.
Don't be alarmed if there are other stages in the process, it's all part of the plan for some of our roles.
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
Our services users come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds because it makes us stronger. We are committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive workforce and value the skills, abilities, talent and experiences, different people and communities bring to our organisation.
We are a disability confident employer
Hestia is proud to be a disability confident employer, dedicated to the employment and career development of individuals with disabilities. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for all applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role they have applied for. We also provide reasonable adjustments during the selection and interview process, and throughout your employment with us.
Safeguarding Statement
Hestia is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults, children and young people who are potentially at risk, and we therefore expect all staff and volunteers to do the same. We require all staff to undertake internal and external safeguarding training throughout their employment with Hestia.