Specialist Domestic Abuse Help Line & Intake Practitioner
Grade: 8 (Job Evaluation Code: PR1972)
Reporting to: Senior Specialist Domestic Abuse Practitioner (Grade 10)
Location: Police Headquarters, Havertop Lane, Normanton (with flexibility across the district)
Service Area: Housing Needs Service – Wakefield District Domestic Abuse Service (WDDAS)
Directorate: Adults Health and Communities
Workstyle: Office-based with flexibility; occasional out-of-hours work required
Overall Purpose:
To deliver a helpline and intake service for WDDAS, providing initial contact, support, and a consistent referral pathway for victims of domestic abuse. The role involves triaging referrals, assessing risk and needs, and ensuring immediate safety through multi-agency collaboration.
Key Responsibilities:
* Act as first point of contact for enquiries and referrals
* Provide helpline support, advice, and information
* Triage referrals and prioritise high-risk cases
* Conduct initial contact and assessments
* Deliver immediate safety planning and support
* Signpost or refer to appropriate services (e.g. Freedom Programme, Housing)
* Use evidence-based tools (e.g. DASH 2009) for risk assessment
* Liaise with professionals and contribute to MARAC
* Maintain accurate records and contribute to service development
* Provide reports, briefings, and presentations
* Cover case management during staff absences
* Stay updated on legislation, policy, and best practices
Essential Requirements:
Qualifications:
* IDVA qualification or relevant degree (or equivalent experience)
Knowledge:
* Domestic abuse dynamics and impact
* Safeguarding (children and adults)
* Civil/criminal justice remedies
* Risk assessment and safety planning
* Confidentiality and data protection
* Equal opportunities and diversity
* Housing needs and emergency accommodation
* Cultural awareness (e.g. HBV, FGM, No Recourse to Public Funds)
Experience:
* Substantial experience in domestic abuse field
* Multi-agency and partnership working
* Crisis intervention and case management
* Supporting victims, families, and perpetrators
* Risk assessments and Sanctuary Scheme Assessments
* Handling distress and challenging behaviour
* Delivering training and working in performance-driven environments
Skills:
* Crisis management and interpersonal communication
* Advocacy and engagement
* Risk analysis and referral decision-making
* IT and administrative proficiency
* Ability to work independently and meet deadlines
Working Conditions:
* Office-based with travel across sites
* Requires successful Police vetting
* DBS check and other employment checks required
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