Pathfinder Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA)
An exciting opportunity for a qualified IDVA or experienced domestic abuse practitioner to support victim-survivors through the Family Court process. This frontline advocacy role involves safeguarding, risk assessment, court support and multi-agency working.
This is a challenging role that requires empathy, compassion, excellent interpersonal and caseload management skills, and confidence working with partner agencies and advocating for clients.
If youve also worked in the following roles, wed also like to hear from you:
Domestic Abuse Support Worker, IDVA Practitioner, Safeguarding Advocate, Court Support Worker, Family Court IDVA / Specialist Family Court Advocate, Criminal Justice IDVA, Specialist Court Advocate, Mentor Court IDVA, Independent Domestic Abuse Advisor (IDAA), Independent Domestic Violence Advocate, Senior IDVA / Lead Advocate, Specialist Domestic Abuse Practitioner, Domestic Abuse Lead / Domestic Abuse Liaison, Domestic Abuse Outreach Worker
SALARY: £25,282 to £28,861 per annum + Benefits
LOCATION: Covering the Sandwell, Walsall and Dudley areas (cases heard in Wolverhampton or Telford Family Court)
JOB TYPE: Full-Time, Permanent
WORKING HOURS: 37.5 hours per week
JOB OVERVIEW
We have a fantastic new job opportunity for a Pathfinder Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) to join a specialist domestic abuse support service operating within the Family Court Pathfinder Programme.
As a Pathfinder Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) you will provide trauma-informed advocacy, safeguarding and risk assessment to victim-survivors and their children, ensuring they are fully prepared for court proceedings and supported throughout.
Working closely with CAFCASS and multi-agency partners, the Pathfinder Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) will produce detailed court reports, deliver safety planning and promote best practice within the Family Court setting.
DUTIES
Your duties as the Pathfinder Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) include:
Risk Assessment and Safety Planning: Complete DASH, stalking and honour-based violence assessments and implement robust safeguarding plans
Court Preparation and Support: Prepare victim-survivors and their children for Family Court hearings and ensure safe attendance
Court Reporting: Produce detailed Child Impact Reports and documentation for CAFCASS and the court
Multi-Agency Working: Represent clients at case meetings, liaise with statutory and voluntary sector partners and advocate effectively
Post-Court Support: Provide ongoing safety planning and support following court orders
Service Referrals: Refer families to specialist counselling, childrens services and therapeutic interventions
Professional Advice and Training: Provide guidance to court staff to improve understanding of domestic abuse dynamics
Case Management and Administration: Maintain accurate records, manage a caseload and ensure GDPR compliance
Safeguarding Responsibilities: Act in accordance with safeguarding policies for vulnerable adults and children
CANDIDATE REQUIREMENTS
ESSENTIAL
IDVA qualification and/or direct experience of working in domestic or sexual violence
Previous experience in safeguarding vulnerable adults and children and responding appropriately to risk
Proven experience of managing complex casework involving trauma, mental health or substance misuse
Experience with risk assessment, safety planning and person-centred support planning
Experience of preparing professional reports for formal proceedings such as MARAC or case conferences
Strong multi-agency working skills with the ability to advocate confidently within court settings
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including report writing
Ability to manage a caseload effectively and work to deadlines
Competent IT skills including Microsoft Office and virtual platforms such as Teams
Eligible to work in the UK
DESIRABLE
Qualification equivalent to Level 3 in a relevant subject such as health and social care
Experience of facilitating group work or supporting volunteers and students
Knowledge of civil and criminal justice remedies for domestic abuse
Understanding of trauma-informed approaches and motivational interviewing
Knowledge of access to public funds and entitlements
BENEFITS
Mileage allowance
Training and development opportunities
Employee Assistance Programme
Access to clinical supervision with a qualified counsellor
25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
Wellbeing day
Pension scheme with employer contribution
Time off in lieu for agreed additional hours
This role requires a DBS check
APPLY TODAY
By submitting your job application to us you are hereby giving us your express consent to submit your details to our Client for this purpose.
JOB REF: AWDO-P14457
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