Independent Domestic Violence Advocate

Contract | Civic Recruitment Limited | United Kingdom

Posted On 29/09/2026

Social / NGO / Health & Care

City Bootle

Province Merseyside

Postal Code L20

Location: Trinity Road, Bootle, Merseyside, L20 3NJ

Contract: 6 Month Contract

Hours: Full Time

Working Pattern: Hybrid / Agile Working

Office Attendance: Minimum 2 Days Per Week at Meadows

DBS: Enhanced DBS with Children's & Adults' Barred Lists Required

Sefton Council is in search of a dedicated Independent Domestic Violence Advocate (IDVA) to deliver specialized support and advocacy for high-risk domestic abuse victims. As part of the Community Safety & Engagement Service, your role will involve providing immediate crisis intervention, conducting risk assessments, and developing safety plans to ensure the safety of victims and their families. You will operate within a multi-agency framework, including MARAC and safeguarding partnerships, to ensure victims receive comprehensive support and access to essential services.

This position is ideal for an experienced IDVA committed to making a difference in the lives of domestic abuse victims through collaborative efforts with partner agencies.

• Offer proactive, short to medium-term support to high-risk domestic abuse victims.
• Conduct thorough risk and needs assessments using established tools.
• Create and implement personalized safety and support plans.
• Assist victims in understanding their options and making informed decisions.
• Advocate for victims to secure necessary services and support.
• Empower victims to regain control and enhance their safety outcomes.

• Identify and refer appropriate cases to MARAC.
• Prepare and present case information for MARAC meetings.
• Attend multi-agency meetings and execute agreed-upon actions.
• Collaborate with:
  • Police
  • Health Services
  • Housing Providers
  • Children's Services
  • Adult Safeguarding Teams
  • Voluntary Sector Organizations

• Adhere to safeguarding procedures for children and vulnerable adults.
• Engage in safeguarding meetings and case discussions.
• Apply relevant safeguarding legislation and procedures.
• Make necessary referrals when concerns arise.

• Guide victims through criminal justice processes.
• Clarify legal, housing, civil, and criminal options available to victims.
• Assist victims in understanding their rights and protections.
• Provide insights into court processes and criminal investigations.

• Manage and prioritize a complex caseload.
• Maintain accurate and current case records.
• Ensure compliance with confidentiality, GDPR, and information governance standards.
• Participate in case reviews and service improvement initiatives.

• Support the delivery of domestic abuse awareness sessions.
• Attend community engagement and promotional events.
• Contribute to staff training and awareness-raising activities as needed.

Requirements:

• Qualified IDVA or recognized Domestic Abuse qualification.
• Proven experience in the domestic abuse sector.
• Experience in conducting risk assessments and safety planning.
• Experience managing a complex caseload.
• Experience advocating for vulnerable individuals.
• Experience working in a multi-agency setting.
• Strong knowledge of:
  • Domestic Abuse legislation
  • Safeguarding Adults
  • Safeguarding Children
  • MARAC processes
  • Risk assessment frameworks
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong report writing and record-keeping abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and case management systems.

• Full UK Driving Licence.
• Access to a vehicle for work purposes.
• Enhanced DBS with Children's & Adults' Barred Lists.
• Ability to travel across Sefton as needed.
• Willingness to…