Housing Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA)

Service Care Solutions; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job description

Housing Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA)

Service: Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG)
Location: Hammersmith
Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week (2 days WFH)
Reporting to: VAWG Manager

About the Role

An opportunity has arisen for a skilled and dedicated Housing IDVA to join the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) team. This role is critical in providing advocacy, crisis intervention, and housing-related support for women experiencing domestic abuse. The Housing IDVA will work closely with housing providers, local authorities, and partner agencies to ensure women with complex housing needs can access safe and secure accommodation. A key part of the role is upskilling housing practitioners and improving the overall housing response to domestic abuse.

Key Responsibilities

1. Build strong relationships with housing providers and local authorities, deliver training, and encourage referrals to the service.
2. Hold a caseload of survivors, conduct risk assessments, develop tailored safety and support plans, and provide multi-agency referrals.
3. Offer expert guidance on housing rights, tenancy sustainment, and remove barriers to safe accommodation.
4. Identify and respond to safeguarding risks for both adults and children, making appropriate referrals when needed.
5. Collaborate with housing teams, local councils, and multi-agency forums to promote best practice in housing responses to domestic abuse.
6. Participate in a duty rota, conducting intake assessments and providing immediate support.
7. Maintain accurate case records and contribute to reports for safeguarding meetings and service evaluation.

Knowledge and Expertise

1. Qualification or training in domestic abuse, criminal justice, housing, or social work.
2. Strong understanding of domestic violence and its impact, including honour-based violence and forced marriage.
3. Knowledge of housing legislation, tenancy sustainment, and survivors' legal rights.
4. Familiarity with safeguarding procedures and multi-agency working.

Experience

1. Proven track record of supporting women affected by domestic abuse, particularly those with housing challenges.
2. Experience working in housing-related services or in partnership with housing providers.
3. Skilled in conducting risk assessments, safety planning, and crisis intervention.
4. Strong advocacy skills, with the ability to influence and drive systemic change in housing responses.

Skills and Attributes

1. Excellent communication and active listening skills, with the ability to engage with diverse communities.
2. Ability to manage competing priorities, work flexibly, and remain calm under pressure.
3. Strong IT and data management skills, with experience writing reports for court, safeguarding meetings, and multi-agency reviews.
4. A commitment to safeguarding, confidentiality, and anti-discriminatory practice.

To Apply:

Submit your CV or contact (url removed) or call (phone number removed).