Child and Direct Service Advocate

The Child Advocate oversees services provided to minors experiencing cases of domestic and sexual violence, stalking, and human trafficking. Services, support, and guidance will also be provided to the children's non-offending parents, community partners, and other staff. Direct Service Advocates are responsible for providing direct services to victims of all ages experiencing domestic and sexual violence, stalking, and human trafficking.

CHILD ADVOCATE SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide crisis intervention; court advocacy, follow-up support, hospital advocacy, and child advocacy center accompaniment.
• Support other staff as needed on cases involving children.
• Network with area court personnel, schools, police, DCYF, and social service agencies.
• Conduct professional training in the community as needed.
• Oversee the organization and maintenance of the organisation's client files.
• Understand and educate staff on technology and social media particularly regarding those most used by children and youth.
• Run child and youth groups as needed.
• Coordinate trauma-informed supports and services, case management, and referrals.

DIRECT SERVICE ADVOCATE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Direct service as needed, including office interactions, telephone and walk-in coverage, crisis calls, and follow-up.
• Provide advocacy and/or accompaniment with the courts, law enforcement, child advocacy centers, medical providers, and social service systems.
• Maintain all necessary documentation for the program and position.
• Ability to work flexible hours and provide after business hours support to clients as needed.
• Provide crisis line coverage or back-up.
• Crisis Intervention - In person, phone support, and follow-up.
• Provide and/or assist clients in managing transportation needs.
• Assist with Volunteer Trainings when appropriate.
• Participate in agency staff meetings.
• Phone/Shelter and Main Office coverage as needed.
• Other duties as requested.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent life or work experience.
• 30 hours of training in accordance with NH RSA 173-C.
• Reliable transportation, valid driver's license, and vehicle insurance coverage.
• Effective communication skills and desire to work on the topics of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, and elder abuse.
• Ability to intervene in crisis situations and maintain client confidentiality.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, ability to prioritise, calm in crisis.
• Understanding of issues related to domestic violence, sexual violence, and stalking.
• Adequate computer skills, Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, and ability to learn and work in other databases.
• Creative, passionate about the issues, organised, dedicated, maintains healthy boundaries, team player, and professional, flexible, ability to adapt to changing needs.
• Ability to take direction, work independently and as part of a team, and be self-motivated.

Essential Job Functions

• Ability to communicate in person and on the phone with guests and clients.
• Ability to receive and convey detailed and/or important instructions or ideas accurately and thoughtfully on the telephone and in-person.
• Must be capable of performing multiple tasks (such as phone calls, computer work, and attending meetings) under stressful situations and to work in a fast-paced environment.