A fantastic opportunity has arisen within the Legal Services Directorate, which provides legal advice to the Chief Constable, Chief Officers, Senior Managers, police officers and staff of Avon and Somerset Constabulary.
You will join a large, friendly and supportive Legal team working in an exciting and fast paced legal environment. The role offers an excellent work life balance and the opportunity to make a real difference to the communities we serve.
As a Vulnerability Officer, you will provide legal and organisational support as the single point of contact for all matters relating to Domestic Violence Protection Notices (DVPNs) and Domestic Violence Protection Orders (DVPOs) within the Constabulary. The aim of these legal powers is to enable the police to put valuable measures in place to protect people who have suffered from and are at further risk of domestic violence.
You will be comfortable corresponding in a professional manner with court staff; perpetrators and their legal representatives; victims of crime; partner agencies and other colleagues of varying seniority within the organisation.
As this role involves the preparation of court files which often require to be progressed within 24 – 48 hours, you will utilise your strong organisational skills and an ability to manage your time, work to tight deadlines and respond to fast paced changes in demand. You will be experienced in producing written work and correspondence to the highest standard, as well as having a keen eye for detail and the ability to review and analyse a number of different resources to identify relevant information.
This is a highly rewarding opportunity to contribute directly to Avon and Somerset Police's Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) strategic priority and help safeguard vulnerable people.
Main Responsibilities will include:
- Keeping up to date with any legislative and procedural changes to laws relating to Domestic Abuse.
- Preparing Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO) files and breaches of Domestic Violence Protection Notice (DVPN) for Court.
- Liaising with the perpetrator/ and/or their representative prior to any hearing to explain the DVPO process and discuss the terms of the Order.
- Updating and researching relevant computerised databases, including the Police National Computer, to ensure that the Domestic Violence Protection Notice (DVPN) and DVPOs are monitored effectively.
- Ensuring that the terms of the Order are being complied with and any breaches of DVPN/DVPO are re-submitted to court within the legislative deadlines.
- You may be required to perform other duties which are not necessarily specified on the role profile, but which are commensurate with the responsibilities of the role holder.
Skills and Experience required for the role:
- Confident with computer systems particularly in MS Word and Excel.
- Excellent interpersonal skills with experience of communicating effectively with people from a variety of different background and often in difficult circumstances.
- Good presentation skills with the ability to communicate salient points effectively to various audiences, together with experience of liaising with and presenting to senior members of an organisation.
- Strong negotiation skills with the ability to influence others.
- Excellent drafting skills with the ability to summarise large volumes of information into a clear and concise format.
- Strong organisational skills with experience of working with large volumes of case work and prioritising/managing tight deadlines. The ability to remain calm and professional in pressurised situations.
What we can offer you:
A package of financial, lifestyle and health benefits to support whatever stage of life you're in, including:
- Flexible working
- Continuous professional development
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Employee Assistance scheme offering help through counselling services, legal advice, fitness advice, personal coaching and health assessment
- Staff discount scheme for savings on shopping, days out, sporting events, holidays
- In our Headquarters in Portishead, you’ll have access to a 24 hour gym, on-site Costa Coffee shop and beautiful grounds.
Additional Information
Please be aware that, due to the nature of the role, you may be required to deal with sensitive and potentially distressing information and case material.
You will hold a full driving licence or be prepared to travel around the force area using alternative transport to attend court when required.
To be eligible to apply for this role you must have a 3 year ‘checkable history’ in the UK – ideally this means that you would have been resident in the UK for the last 3 years.
This role benefits from blended working arrangements, providing the flexibility of both home and office working during the working days of Monday - Friday. Details will be discussed and agreed with the successful candidate.
Applicants successful at shortlisting will be invited to attend an in person interview week commencing 26th October 2026.
Vulnerability Officer - Hybrid Working employer: Avon and Somerset Police
Join us as a Volunteer Police Cadet Leader and make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people in Bristol, South Gloucestershire, and Weston-Super-Mare. Our supportive work culture fosters personal growth through comprehensive training and resources, ensuring you feel equipped and valued in your role. With opportunities to lead engaging sessions and participate in community events, you'll not only develop your leadership skills but also contribute to a safer, more inclusive environment for our cadets.
