Independent Domestic Violence Advocate
We are looking for a skilled practitioner to work in a new 'Pathfinder' team to support victims of domestic abuse going thought the Family Court process.
Advocacy and good written and verbal communication skills are essential.
This role is full time & based in Stoke-on-Trent but will be expected to travel to courts across the County. The role is initially fixed-term until 31st March 2026, but we expect further funding for the project to continue into 2026/27 and beyond.
County/Borough Staffordshire Office location Churchill House, Regent Road Full time/Part time Full time Hours per week 37.5 Work schedule Monday -Friday 9am - 5pm. Basic Salary Qualified £28,611.00 per annum Unqualified £26,830.20 per annum Contract type Fixed Term DBS required? Enhanced End date (if fixed term) 31/03/2026 Police vetting required? Yes Closing Date 24/10/2025 Ref No 6326
What we offer
At Victim Support, we are committed to attracting and retaining the best talent. Our competitive rewards and benefits package includes:
1. Flexible Working Options: Including hybrid working.
2. Generous Annual Leave: 28 days plus Bank Holidays, increasing to 33 days plus Bank Holidays, with options to buy or sell annual leave.
3. Birthday Leave: An extra day off for your birthday.
4. Welcome Bonus: £500 on successful completion of probation period.
5. Pension Plan: 5% employer contribution.
6. Enhanced Allowances: Enhanced sick pay, maternity, and paternity payments.
7. Exclusive Discounts: High Street, retail, holiday, gym, entertainment, and leisure discounts.
8. Financial Wellbeing: Access to our financial wellbeing hub and salary-deducted finance.
9. Wellbeing Support: Employee assistance programme and wellbeing support.
10. Inclusive Networks: Access to EDI networks and colleague cafes.
11. Sustainable Travel: Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loans.
12. Career Development: Ongoing training and support with opportunities for career progression.
About the Role
As a Family Court IDVA you will take referrals from CAFCASS to arrange support for victims of domestic abuse entering or going through family court proceedings.
Key Responsibilities:
13. Direct support to victims of domestic abuse and coercive and controlling behaviour.
14. Report writing for CAFCASS and other partners.
15. Monitoring and recording activity and outcomes measured.
About You:
Ideally, you will have:
16. - A good understanding around the issues of domestic abuse and its implications for children and young people
17. - Knowledge of family court proceedings
18. - Ability to write concise, factual, effective reports
19. - Experience of developing and maintaining effective working relationships
You will need:
20. Training for IDVA accreditation (to be provided if do not have already)
This role involves regular travel and due to the locations, a driving license and access to a vehicle is considered an essential requirement. If you are unable to drive because of a disability, please indicate this in your application in your personal statement so we can explore the feasibility of alternative arrangements.