Independent Domestic Violence Advisor​/IDVA Pathfinder; AWDO-P14457

Pathfinder Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA)

An exciting opportunity for a qualified IDVA or experienced domestic abuse practitioner to support victim‑survivors through the Family Court process. This frontline advocacy role involves safeguarding, risk assessment, court support and multi‑agency working.

This is a challenging role that requires empathy, compassion, excellent interpersonal and caseload management skills, and confidence working with partner agencies and advocating for clients.

If you’ve also worked in the following roles, we’d also like to hear from you:

Domestic Abuse Support Worker, IDVA Practitioner, Safeguarding Advocate, Court Support Worker, Family Court IDVA / Specialist Family Court Advocate, Criminal Justice IDVA, Specialist Court Advocate, Mentor Court IDVA, Independent Domestic Abuse Advisor (IDAA), Independent Domestic Violence Advocate, Senior IDVA / Lead Advocate, Specialist Domestic Abuse Practitioner, Domestic Abuse Lead / Domestic Abuse Liaison, Domestic Abuse Outreach Worker

SALARY: £25,282 to £28,861 per annum + Benefits

LOCATION:

Covering the Sandwell, Walsall and Dudley areas (cases heard in Wolverhampton or Telford Family Court)

JOB TYPE:
Full‑Time, Permanent

WORKING HOURS:

37.5 hours per week

We have a fantastic new job opportunity for a Pathfinder Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) to join a specialist domestic abuse support service operating within the Family Court Pathfinder Programme.

As a Pathfinder Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) you will provide trauma‑informed advocacy, safeguarding and risk assessment to victim‑survivors and their children, ensuring they are fully prepared for court proceedings and supported throughout.

Working closely with CAFCASS and multi‑agency partners, the Pathfinder Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) will produce detailed court reports, deliver safety planning and promote best practice within the Family Court setting.

• Risk Assessment and Safety Planning:
  Complete DASH, stalking and honour‑based violence assessments and implement robust safeguarding plans
• Court Preparation and Support:
  Prepare victim‑survivors and their children for Family Court hearings and ensure safe attendance
• Court Reporting:
  Produce detailed Child Impact Reports and documentation for CAFCASS and the court
• Multi‑Agency Working:
  Represent clients at case meetings, liaise with statutory and voluntary sector partners and advocate effectively
• Post‑Court Support:
  Provide ongoing safety planning and support following court orders
• Service Referrals:
  Refer families to specialist counselling, children’s services and therapeutic interventions
• Professional Advice and Training:
  Provide guidance to court staff to improve understanding of domestic abuse dynamics
• Case Management and Administration:
  Maintain accurate records, manage a caseload and ensure GDPR compliance
• Safeguarding Responsibilities:
  Act in accordance with safeguarding policies for vulnerable adults and children

• IDVA qualification and/or direct experience of working in domestic or sexual violence
• Previous experience in safeguarding vulnerable adults and children and responding appropriately to risk
• Proven experience of managing complex casework involving trauma, mental health or substance misuse
• Experience with risk assessment, safety planning and person‑centred support planning
• Experience of preparing professional reports for formal proceedings such as MARAC or case conferences
• Strong multi‑agency working skills with the ability to advocate confidently within court settings
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including report writing
• Ability to manage a caseload effectively and work to deadlines
• Competent IT skills including Microsoft Office and virtual platforms such as Teams
• Eligible to work in the UK

• Qualification equivalent to Level 3 in a relevant subject such as health and social care
• Experience of facilitating group work or supporting volunteers and students
• Knowledge of civil and criminal justice remedies for domestic abuse
• Understanding of trauma‑informed approaches and motivational interviewing
• Knowledge of access to public funds and entitlements

• Mileage allowance
• Training and development opportunities
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Access to clinical supervision with a qualified counsellor
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Wellbeing day
• Pension scheme with employer contribution
• Time off in lieu for agreed additional hours

This role requires a DBS check

APPLY TODAY…

By submitting your job application to us you are hereby giving us your express consent to submit your details to our Client for this purpose.

JOB
-P14457