Independent Domestic Violence Advocate

Victim Support is recruiting for an Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) to support predominately high risk victims of domestic abuse in Central Bedfordshire. This full‑time role is on a fixed‑term contract until 31/3/27 and offers hybrid working.

• Flexible working options including hybrid
• 28 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays, rising to 33 days plus Bank Holidays
• An extra day off for your birthday & options to buy or sell annual leave
• 5% employer pension contribution
• Enhanced sick pay allowances, maternity & paternity payments
• High Street, retail, holiday, gym, entertainment & leisure discounts
• Access to our financial wellbeing hub & salary deducted finance
• Employee assistance programme & wellbeing support
• Access to EDI networks and colleague cafes
• Cycle to work scheme & season ticket loans
• Ongoing training & support with opportunities for career development & progression

As an IDVA you will be providing a high quality support and advocacy service to victims of domestic abuse in Central Bedfordshire, working as part of a wider specialist services network covering Bedfordshire.

• Providing support and advocacy to victims of domestic abuse
• Managing a caseload; assessing risks and needs, delivering tailored crisis intervention, safety planning, advocacy, emotional and practical support
• Working with other agencies and advocating on behalf of service users to access services that keep them safe
• Coordinating with partners such as MARAC and local partnerships within a multi‑agency framework
• Promoting the service and raising awareness of domestic abuse through training delivery

• Experience of support and advocacy with victims of domestic abuse (advantageous)
• Ability to prioritise work, manage competing demands and promote organisational values
• Preferably hold Safe Lives IDVA accreditation, a relevant degree, vocational qualification, or relevant experience in statutory, voluntary or community settings with domestic abuse victims or service users

Victim Support commits to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Background checks and Disclosed Barring Service checks may be required. We celebrate diversity, are an antiracist organisation, and welcome applicants from all backgrounds, including those from Black and Asian and other minoritised communities. As a Disability Confident Employer, we offer interviews to disabled candidates who meet essential criteria and will make reasonable adjustments during recruitment.