We are looking for a compassionate, motivated and resilient individual to join our high‑risk domestic abuse team as an Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) or Trainee IDVA. This is a rewarding opportunity to support adults at high risk of serious harm, helping them to increase their safety, navigate complex systems and rebuild stability for themselves and their children.
Whether you are already a qualified IDVA or bring strong transferable skills from a related field, we will provide the training, supervision and professional development you need to thrive in this specialist role.
About the Role
As an IDVA (or Trainee IDVA), you will:
* Provide specialist, trauma‑informed support to adults experiencing domestic abuse.
* Undertake risk assessments and develop robust, personalised safety and support plans.
* Offer practical and emotional support around housing, finance, health, children, and criminal and civil justice options.
* Advocate for survivors with partner agencies including police, housing, health, children’s services and the courts.
* Participate in MARAC and other safeguarding processes, ensuring survivors’ voices are heard.
* Work collaboratively within a supportive, experienced high‑risk team.
As a Trainee IDVA you will follow a structured development plan, hold a smaller caseload initially and receive close supervision, with a clear pathway to becoming a fully qualified IDVA.
What We’re Looking For
We welcome applications from:
* Qualified IDVAs, or
* Candidates with a minimum two years’ experience in a related field such as support work, housing, social care, youth work, criminal justice, mental health, substance use or advocacy.
You will be operating across North and West Oxfordshire, so a full drivers licence is required. You will need to be located within a reasonable travelling distance of this region.
We are seeking candidates who can demonstrate the following skills and behaviours:
Commitment to Survivors
* A compassionate, non‑judgemental and person‑centred approach.
* A genuine desire to improve safety and outcomes for adults and their children.
Trauma‑Informed Practice
* Ability to recognise trauma responses and adapt support accordingly.
* Sensitivity, patience and emotional intelligence when working with people in crisis.
Risk Awareness & Safety Planning
* Confidence (or willingness to learn) in assessing risk and developing effective safety plans.
* Ability to respond calmly and decisively in high‑risk situations.
Strong Interpersonal & Communication Skills
* Ability to build trust quickly and communicate clearly.
* Skilled at active listening and explaining complex information in accessible ways.
Resilience & Self‑Awareness
* Ability to manage emotionally challenging work and maintain personal wellbeing.
* Willingness to use supervision constructively and reflect on practice.
Organisation & Case Management
* Ability to manage a busy caseload, prioritise effectively and keep accurate records.
* Strong attention to detail and reliability in meeting deadlines.
Teamwork & Partnership Working
* Willingness to collaborate with colleagues and external agencies.
* Ability to build constructive, professional relationships that support safeguarding.
Commitment to Learning
* Openness to training, including completing an accredited IDVA qualification.
* Motivation to keep practice up to date with legislation and best practice.
What We Offer
* Competitive salary
* Regular supervision and reflective practice
* Comprehensive training and development opportunities
* Supportive, experienced colleagues
* A clear pathway from Trainee IDVA to Qualified IDVA
* The chance to make a meaningful, lasting impact
The Recruitment process
Submission of CV and covering letter which demonstrates how you have met the above skills and behaviours. Please note applications without a supporting covering letter will not be accepted.
10-to-20-minute introductory call with one of the team
One day on-site shadowing
Previous applicants need not apply
This vacancy is being managed by our retained HR Consultancy – HRCentral Limited. No agents, please
Salary description
£28000.00 - £30000.00 per year