Independent Domestic Violence Advocate (IDVA) – LGBTQ+ Service

Location: [London Monument / Hybrid]
Salary: £17.00 per hour
Hours: 35hrs a week
Contract: Fixed-term (2–3 months), subject to extension and potential permanent opportunity

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and compassionate Independent Domestic Violence Advocate (IDVA) to join our Domestic Abuse Team, providing specialist, trauma-informed support to LGBTQ+ survivors of domestic abuse.

This is an exciting opportunity to work within a by-and-for LGBTQ+ service, supporting individuals experiencing high and medium-risk domestic abuse. You will provide independent advocacy, practical support, safety planning and multi-agency coordination to empower survivors and improve their safety and wellbeing.

This is initially a 2–3 month fixed-term contract, with the possibility of extension or a permanent position, subject to funding and organisational requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of approximately 25–30 LGBTQ+ survivors of domestic abuse.
• Provide trauma-informed, person-centred advocacy, emotional support and practical advice.
• Complete comprehensive risk and needs assessments using the DASH Risk Assessment, alongside safety planning and ongoing risk management.
• Undertake effective case management, ensuring survivors receive coordinated, high-quality support.
• Assist with the intake and assessment of referrals into the Domestic Abuse Service.
• Represent and advocate for clients within MARAC, safeguarding meetings, housing services, health services, criminal justice agencies and other multi-agency forums.
• Develop strong working relationships with partner agencies to ensure clients receive appropriate support.
• Maintain accurate, timely and confidential case records using Salesforce CRM.
• Monitor outcomes and contribute to service reporting and performance requirements.
• Work in accordance with safeguarding procedures, GDPR and organisational policies.
• Promote equality, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of service delivery.

Person Specification

Essential

• Experience supporting survivors of domestic abuse, ideally as an Independent Domestic Violence Advocate (IDVA) or in a similar advocacy role.
• Knowledge of domestic abuse legislation, safeguarding and risk management.
• Experience completing DASH Risk Assessments, safety planning and ongoing risk management.
• Experience representing clients at MARAC and working effectively within multi-agency environments.
• Strong advocacy, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Good understanding of housing, welfare benefits, criminal justice and family law processes.
• Ability to manage a busy caseload and prioritise competing demands.
• Excellent record-keeping and IT skills, with experience using case management systems (Salesforce experience desirable).
• Commitment to trauma-informed, anti-oppressive and survivor-led practice.
• A strong understanding of the unique barriers and experiences faced by LGBTQ+ survivors of domestic abuse.

Desirable

• SafeLives IDVA Accreditation desirable but not essential
• Experience working within an LGBTQ+ specialist service.
• Knowledge of relevant local referral pathways and statutory services.

What We Offer

• £17.00 per hour.
• Initial 2–3 month contract with the potential for extension or a permanent role.
• Supportive and inclusive working environment.
• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact within an LGBTQ+ specialist service.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve.

This post is restricted to applicants who are members of the LGBTQ+ community. This requirement is applied as a Genuine Occupational Requirement (Schedule 9, Equality Act 2010) because the role involves providing specialist, by-and-for support to LGBTQ+ survivors of domestic abuse. Applicants will be considered on their skills, experience and ability to fulfil the requirements of the role.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion throughout our recruitment process.