Multiple Disadvantages IDVA

We are Hestia. We make a difference.

At Hestia, we are guided by our core values and are dedicated to fostering an equitable, diverse, and inclusive organisation. Our mission is to empower individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve independence. Right now, we are looking for a Multiple Disadvantages IDVA to play a pivotal role in our Domestic Abuse Service in Newham.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

To provide immediate high quality trauma informed support and advice to victims of domestic abuse specifically those experiencing multiple disadvantages including mental health, substance use, homelessness, and poverty or NRPF. Working within co-locations raising awareness on multiple disadvantages and referral pathways for support

This position, open to female applicants only under Section 7(2) b & e of the Sex Discrimination Act 1975, involves delivering advocacy services to high-risk male and female survivors of domestic abuse, especially those facing multiple disadvantages, across hospital, healthcare, and community settings. The role includes collaborating with healthcare professionals, supporting them in managing sensitive domestic abuse disclosures, and acting as a single point of contact for survivors, aiming to respond within 24 hours.

Key responsibilities include completing DASH risk assessments, developing individualised safety and support plans, and supporting survivors through the MARAC process. The advocate works to achieve outcomes such as increasing safety, confidence, and quality of life while reducing fear. The role involves flexible, focused support, crisis response, and guidance on legal, housing, welfare, and safeguarding options.

The post holder is expected to advocate for survivors, coordinate with external agencies, and ensure safety plans and referrals are in place at discharge. Support is tiered based on assessed risk, with intensive support for high-risk individuals and signposting for lower-risk cases. The role requires making adult and child safeguarding referrals, participating in safeguarding meetings, and maintaining high standards of case recording in Hestia's casework system.

The advocate represents Hestia externally, contributes to a co-produced service model, and supports service users in accessing relevant information and services. They are expected to attend supervision, training, forums, and ensure compliance with lone working, service specifications, and data security policies. The role also involves preparing reports, monitoring service outcomes, and building effective networks, particularly with children's services in both boroughs.

Throughout, the postholder must uphold Hestia's values, maintain professionalism, and use organisational resources efficiently.

What do I need to bring with me?

You'll need to be able to demonstrate the core skills this role requires as well as match our values and mission. You don't have to tick all the boxes right away; the important thing is that you're willing to learn. We also value lived experience of the areas we support, so if you feel comfortable, please do mention this on your application.

Here's what the team will be looking for

The ideal candidate must have experience providing both emotional and practical support to survivors of domestic abuse and other forms of gender-based violence, with a particular focus on those experiencing multiple disadvantages. They should be skilled in conducting risk assessments and developing comprehensive safety and support plans tailored to individuals with complex needs. A background in working within multi-agency settings is essential, along with the ability to build and maintain strong professional partnerships.

They must have experience designing and delivering specialist domestic abuse training to relevant professionals, particularly within healthcare or trust environments. A commitment to promoting service user involvement and co-producing services with survivors is crucial. The candidate should be able to remain calm, resilient, and effective under pressure, with a proven ability to manage challenging situations.

Proficiency in using computer-based systems for accurate case recording is required, as is prior experience in domestic abuse support or a closely related field. A thorough understanding of intersectionality, multiple disadvantage, and the impact of trauma on survivors is essential. They should demonstrate excellent knowledge of how domestic and gender-based violence affects both survivors and their children.

The candidate must be capable of building positive, empowering, and non-judgmental relationships with service users, supporting them to achieve their personal goals. They should also be aware of the risks associated with domestic violence in professional environments and take appropriate safety precautions. An understanding of relevant housing law, welfare benefits, legal remedies, and safeguarding practices is expected, along with strong administrative and time management skills.

Interview Steps

We keep our interview process simple, so you know exactly what to expect.

• Shortlisting call: We have a team of dedicated recruitment specialists who will speak to you about your experience, motivations and values. They will also tell you about all the great work we do!
• Face to face interview: We will be holding an assessment / recruitment day for this role which will include a written task, a group task and presentation, this will take place on 30th June at our head office in Aldgate

Don't be alarmed if there are other stages in the process, it's all part of the plan for some of our roles.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Our services users come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds because it makes us stronger. We are committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive workforce and value the skills, abilities, talent and experiences, different people and communities bring to our organisation.

We are a disability confident employer

Hestia is proud to be a disability confident employer, dedicated to the employment and career development of individuals with disabilities. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for all applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role they have applied for. We also provide reasonable adjustments during the selection and interview process, and throughout your employment with us.

Safeguarding Statement

Hestia is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults, children and young people who are potentially at risk, and we therefore expect all staff and volunteers to do the same. We require all staff to undertake internal and external safeguarding training throughout their employment with Hestia.