Refuge Support Worker

Refuge Support Worker

Full-Time 21762 - 23426 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Provide trauma-informed support to women and children in refuge accommodation.
  • Company: Join the Edinburgh Rape Crisis Centre, a leader in survivor support since 1978.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, pension contributions, and potential for career growth.
  • Other info: Flexible hours with opportunities to work across various locations.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of survivors while gaining valuable experience.
  • Qualifications: Experience in trauma-informed support and advocacy preferred.

The predicted salary is between 21762 - 23426 £ per year.

To provide high-quality, trauma-informed operational and practical support within refuge accommodation, ensuring that women and children are welcomed into a safe, clean, and secure environment, while supporting the effective day-to-day running of refuge services.

The Women’s Hub, supported by WRASAC and partners across Dundee, is responsible for the setting up, development and facilitation of Dundee Women’s Hub (DWH). The main aim of the DWH is to increase capacity and co-ordination of services to respond to the needs of women experiencing substance use and multiple disadvantage, with the overall goal of improving physical and emotional wellbeing for women who experience substance use and multiple disadvantages.

Work Location, Hours and Salary

  • Hours: 25 hours per week, fixed term up until September 2027 with the potential for extension pending further funding.
  • Location: Dundee (Dundee Women’s Hub and Outreach across Dundee) and Edinburgh (and venues in East Lothian, Midlothian) including travel to support survivors within Scottish court venues.
  • Salary: £21,762 (probationary salary for first year) rising to £23,426 (after 1 year and successful completion of probation period). FTE £30,467 – £32,796.
  • Pension: Employer contribution at 6% to pension fund.
  • Funder: Funded through CORRA.
  • Closing Date: Monday 11th May 2026 at 8am.

Key Responsibilities

  • Provide high-quality, trauma-informed operational and practical support within refuge accommodation.
  • Support the effective day-to-day running of refuge services.
  • Support the financial and administrative operations of Edinburgh Rape Crisis Centre (ERCC), including bookkeeping, financial recording, administrative systems, and organisational support.
  • Deliver ERCC’s specialist counselling support services, including practical and advocacy support as required, to adult survivors of all genders who have experienced any form of sexual violence.
  • Provide trauma-informed support and advocacy to survivors who are engaged, or considering engaging, with the criminal justice system following an experience of sexual violence.
  • Support women and children in a safe, clean, and secure environment at the Women’s Hub.
  • Work with multi‑agency partners and across various venues in Edinburgh, East Lothian, and Midlothian.

Qualifications and Experience

  • Experience in trauma-informed support and advocacy, particularly with survivors of sexual violence.
  • Background in social work, counseling, or related fields; experience with people experiencing substance use and multiple disadvantage is preferred.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
  • Strong organisational, administrative and financial skills for supporting administrative operations.
  • Willingness and ability to travel to different sites, including court venues.

Additional Information

Established in 1978, Edinburgh Rape Crisis Centre (ERCC) provides a support, information and advocacy service to all survivors aged 12 and over in Edinburgh, East Lothian and Midlothian who have experienced recent and/or historic sexual violence, including rape, sexual assault, childhood sexual abuse and commercial sexual exploitation. ERCC also works in schools and with young people across Edinburgh and the Lothians, in partnership with multi‑agency partners, towards preventing sexual violence.

Refuge Support Worker employer: Dundee Women's Aid

As a Refuge Support Worker at the Edinburgh Rape Crisis Centre, you will be part of a compassionate and dedicated team committed to providing trauma-informed support to women and children in need. Our work culture prioritises collaboration and professional growth, offering opportunities for training and development while ensuring a safe and supportive environment for both staff and clients. Located in Dundee and Edinburgh, we provide a meaningful career path where your contributions directly impact the lives of survivors, making it an exceptional place to work.
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Contact Detail:

Dundee Women's Aid Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Refuge Support Worker

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the field of trauma-informed support and advocacy. Attend local events or workshops related to women's services, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have a lead on a job or can offer valuable advice.

✨Tip Number 2

Get your hands dirty with volunteering! Gaining experience in similar roles, even if unpaid, can make a huge difference. It shows your commitment to the cause and helps you build connections within the community. Plus, it’s a great way to learn the ropes!

✨Tip Number 3

Tailor your approach! When you find a role that excites you, make sure to highlight your relevant experience and skills in conversations. Be ready to discuss how your background in social work or counselling aligns with the needs of the Women’s Hub.

✨Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! We’re all about making the application process as smooth as possible. Keep an eye on our listings and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions. Your next opportunity could be just a click away!

We think you need these skills to ace Refuge Support Worker

Trauma-Informed Support
Advocacy Skills
Experience with Survivors of Sexual Violence
Social Work Background
Counselling Skills
Organisational Skills
Administrative Skills
Financial Recording
Bookkeeping
Collaboration within Multidisciplinary Teams
Ability to Work Independently
Willingness to Travel
Understanding of Substance Use Issues
Crisis Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience in trauma-informed support and advocacy. We want to see how your background aligns with the needs of women experiencing multiple disadvantages.

Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to emphasise your organisational and administrative skills! Mention any relevant experience you have with financial operations or working within a multidisciplinary team, as these are key for the role.

Be Genuine: We love authenticity! Share your passion for supporting survivors and why you’re drawn to this role. A personal touch can really make your application stand out.

Apply Through Our Website: Remember to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Don’t miss out!

How to prepare for a job interview at Dundee Women's Aid

✨Know Your Stuff

Make sure you understand the role of a Refuge Support Worker inside out. Familiarise yourself with trauma-informed care and the specific challenges faced by women and children in refuge accommodation. This knowledge will help you answer questions confidently and show your genuine interest in the position.

✨Show Empathy and Understanding

During the interview, demonstrate your ability to empathise with survivors of sexual violence and those facing multiple disadvantages. Share examples from your past experiences where you've provided support or advocacy, highlighting your understanding of their needs and how you can contribute positively to their wellbeing.

✨Highlight Teamwork Skills

This role requires collaboration with multi-agency partners, so be ready to discuss your experience working in multidisciplinary teams. Share specific instances where you’ve successfully worked with others to achieve a common goal, showcasing your ability to communicate and cooperate effectively.

✨Prepare Questions

At the end of the interview, you'll likely have the chance to ask questions. Prepare thoughtful queries about the Women’s Hub and its operations, as well as the support systems in place for staff. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if the organisation is the right fit for you.

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