Join Hestia: Make a Difference!
At Hestia, we are driven by our core values and a commitment to creating an equitable, diverse, and inclusive organization. Our mission? To empower individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve independence. We are currently seeking an Independent Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Advocate to play a pivotal role in our Central Service in London.
About the Team
The Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Prevention Team is part of our wider Fundraising and Communications directorate. We proudly deliver the UK SAYS NO MORE campaign and Everyone's Business, which collaborates with employers to provide a comprehensive response to domestic abuse and sexual violence.
Our initiatives include:
* The Everyone's Business Respond to Abuse Advice Line
* A tailored training package
* An employee IDVA and ISVA service
We have successfully partnered with approximately 250 employers, ranging from large multinational companies to local authorities.
This is a hybrid role, allowing you to work from anywhere in the UK, with a requirement to be at our Head Office in London one day a week (Thursday).
Your Role: What Will You Be Doing?
As an advocate, you will provide both emotional and practical support to survivors of domestic abuse, sexual violence, and other forms of gender-based violence, particularly those at high risk. Your responsibilities will include:
* Conducting DASH risk assessments and tailoring support to individual needs.
* Responding to referrals from employees through the Everyone's Business IDSVA service.
* Acting as the lead IDVA/ISVA for contracted business partnerships.
* Building relationships and raising awareness with partner organizations.
* Collaborating with criminal and civil justice agencies, health services, and other stakeholders.
* Conducting needs and risk assessments, and developing individual safety and support plans.
* Providing multi-agency advocacy and attending MARACs.
What Do You Need to Bring?
We are looking for candidates who can demonstrate the core skills required for this role and align with our values and mission. You don’t need to tick all the boxes right away; what matters most is your willingness to learn. We also value lived experience, so if you feel comfortable, please mention this in your application.
Key Qualifications:
* ISVA or IDVA qualification or equivalent relevant experience.
* Strong understanding of the impact of domestic and gender-based violence.
* Experience in risk assessment, safety planning, and providing emotional and practical support.
* Experience working with employers to respond to domestic and sexual violence.
* Knowledge of safeguarding responsibilities and trauma-informed practice.
* Excellent administrative and time management skills.
* Confidence in working independently and under pressure.
* Proficiency in digital systems for casework documentation.
Interview Steps: What to Expect
We keep our interview process straightforward, so you know exactly what to expect:
* Shortlisting Call: Our recruitment specialists will discuss your experience, motivations, and values, while sharing insights about our impactful work.
* Face-to-Face Interview: You will meet with the hiring manager for a values and competency-based interview.
Don’t worry if there are additional stages; it’s all part of our thorough process for some roles.
Our Commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
Our service users come from all walks of life, and so do we. We believe that a diverse workforce makes us stronger. We are dedicated to creating and maintaining an inclusive environment that values the skills, abilities, and experiences of all individuals.
We Are a Disability Confident Employer
Hestia is proud to be a disability confident employer, committed to the career development of individuals with disabilities. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role. Reasonable adjustments are provided throughout the selection process and during your employment.
Safeguarding Statement
Hestia is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults, children, and young people who may be at risk. We expect all staff and volunteers to uphold this commitment and undertake safeguarding training throughout their employment.