Independent Domestic Violence Advisor

Your new company You will be joining a respected specialist domestic abuse support provider operating across the Black Country. The service delivers trauma-informed, holistic support to individuals and families experiencing domestic abuse, with a strong emphasis on empowerment, safety and recovery. This particular role sits within the Family Court Pathfinder Programme, a national initiative designed to improve how Family Courts respond to cases involving domestic abuse. The programme aims to ensure that victims are heard, protected and fully supported throughout the court process, with the long-term safety and wellbeing of children at its core. Your new role As a Pathfinder IDVA, you will be the primary point of support for victim survivors navigating the Family Court process. You will: Provide specialist, trauma-informed support to victims and their children throughout every stage of court proceedings. Carry out comprehensive risk assessments using tools such as DASH, Stalking and Honour-Based Violence frameworks, SOAG and the Respect Toolkit. Help victims understand court procedures, prepare for hearings and attend court safely. Produce high quality written reports for CAFCASS and the Family Court, including Child Impact Reports. Work closely with CAFCASS, safeguarding partners and Family Court teams to ensure accurate information is collected and shared. Deliver guidance, training and expertise to court professionals to improve understanding of domestic abuse dynamics. Provide post-hearing safety planning and refer families into wider support services as needed. Attend multi-agency meetings, contribute to safeguarding processes and maintain accurate case management records. This is a rewarding yet challenging role requiring empathy, resilience, excellent communication skills and confidence when working with partner agencies in high pressure environments. What you'll need to succeed You will bring: An IDVA qualification or professional experience within domestic/sexual violence services. (desirable) A Level 3 qualification (or equivalent) in a relevant field. (desirable) Experience supporting vulnerable adults and children, with strong safeguarding knowledge. Ability to manage complex cases involving trauma, mental health, substance misuse, and child contact issues. Strong understanding of domestic abuse indicators, risk assessment, safety planning and the barriers victims face. Knowledge of civil/criminal justice processes, Family Court procedures and relevant safeguarding legislation. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience producing formal reports. Confidence working independently and within multi-agency environments. A calm, resilient and compassionate approach in emotionally sensitive situations. Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle. This role is open to female applicants only, due to an occupational requirement aligned with the nature of the support provided. What you'll get in return You'll be joining a supportive organisation that values staff wellbeing, development and professional growth. Benefits include: A salary ranging between 15,169 - 17,316 Mileage allowance Training & development opportunities Employee Assistance Programme Group clinical supervision (BACP-trained counsellor) 25 days annual leave + bank holidays (pro rata), rising with service Additional wellbeing day (pro rata) Annual leave buy-back scheme Time off in lieu (TOIL) Bi-annual staff away days 5% employer pension contribution You'll play a key role in shaping safer outcomes for victims of domestic abuse and their children within the Family Court system. What you need to do now If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career. Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk TPBN1_UKTJ

Created: 2026-02-07