Health Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA)
Health Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA)

Health Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA)

Truro Full-Time 24956 - 26474 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
Go Premium
First Light

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support victims of domestic abuse within the health sector and provide emotional and practical assistance.
  • Company: First Light is dedicated to helping those affected by domestic violence and promoting equality and inclusion.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, comprehensive training, and access to wellbeing resources and support programmes.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while working in a supportive and inclusive environment.
  • Qualifications: A valid driving licence and access to a vehicle are essential; experience in health or social care is a plus.
  • Other info: Fixed term contract until 31/03/2026 with potential for extension; hybrid working options may apply.

The predicted salary is between 24956 - 26474 £ per year.

Join to apply for the Health Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) role at First Light.

Salary: £24,956 per annum rising to £25,350 per annum on successful completion of probation and £26,474 per annum after accreditation.

Hours: 37.5 hours per week

Holiday: 25 days annual holiday entitlement increasing to 30 days after 5 years’ service per annum plus bank holidays

Base: RCHT

Area Covered: Countywide to include Community Hospitals throughout Cornwall.

Contract: fixed term until 31/03/2026 with the potential for extension subject to future funding.

Be part of the CIOS integrated service with a focus on supporting victims of domestic abuse within the Health response. Raise awareness of the integrated service and domestic abuse and Sexual Violence to health practitioners as well as helping other services identify and respond to those experiencing domestic abuse. Take referrals from clinicians in response to routine enquiry or other disclosure and provide a timely response. Have an excellent understanding of domestic violence and its effects on women, men and children and of best practice within the health sector. Be skilled in risk management and safety planning, remaining calm in a crisis and in handling sensitive information on a daily basis. Provide a premium service to those assessed at highest risk but responding to all referrals whatever the risk level. Use advocacy and partnership working skills both within the hospital setting and, in the community, to ensure victims are supported to access services to which they are entitled. Provide emotional and practical support and information to victims including in relation to legal options, housing, health and finance. Support the empowerment of the service user and assist them in recognising the features and dynamics of domestic abuse present in their situation and help them regain control of their lives. Maintain accurate and confidential electronic case management records and contribute to monitoring for the service.

Essential Requirements:

  • A Valid driving licence and access to a vehicle.

Added Benefits:

  • A comprehensive induction and training programme
  • Access to external supervision to discuss personal or emotional responses to traumatic cases, to ensure emotional and psychological wellbeing.
  • Health and wellbeing resources including our staff Wellbeing Group, Staff Consultation Committee and active participation in our employee engagement platform.
  • Access to an Employee Assistance Programme which includes a 24/7 telephone helpline offering medical, emotional and financial support.
  • Working for an organisation committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. We welcome applications from all sections of the community, and all backgrounds regardless of age, race, faith, disability, sex, gender identity or sexuality.
  • Annual pay review and employer contribution pension scheme.

Additional Information:

The successful applicant will be subject to a Disclosure & Barring check. Please note that in some roles staff may be required to work from a home/office base in accordance with our Hybrid Working policy.

Deadline for receipt of applications: 13/06/2025

Expected date for interviews: To be confirmed with the candidate.

If you do not hear from us by 19/06/2025, please assume you have been unsuccessful at this time.

To apply: Due to Safeguarding requirements we are unable to accept CVs as part of your application, or employ any candidate who has been a client of First Light within the last two years. Please complete the application form at the bottom of this page and click submit. Ensure that you outline your relevant experience and evidence suitability for the role against the role profile, which is a combined job description and person specification. Alternatively, you can email hr@firstlight.org.uk or ring 03458 121212 to request an application pack.

Health Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) employer: First Light

First Light is an exceptional employer dedicated to supporting victims of domestic abuse through a comprehensive health response. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, we offer extensive training, access to mental health resources, and a supportive work culture that values diversity and inclusion. Our team members enjoy generous holiday entitlements, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the community across Cornwall.
First Light

Contact Detail:

First Light Recruiting Team

hr@firstlight.org.uk

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Health Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA)

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges faced by victims of domestic violence. Understanding the nuances of their experiences will help you connect better during interviews and demonstrate your commitment to supporting them.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the health and social care sectors who work with domestic abuse cases. This can provide you with valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals or recommendations that could strengthen your application.

✨Tip Number 3

Stay updated on best practices and legal frameworks surrounding domestic violence and health responses. Being knowledgeable about current policies will show your dedication to the role and your ability to advocate effectively for victims.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss real-life scenarios during your interview. Think about how you would handle various situations involving domestic violence, as this will showcase your problem-solving skills and ability to remain calm under pressure.

We think you need these skills to ace Health Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA)

Understanding of domestic violence and its effects
Risk management and safety planning
Calmness in crisis situations
Advocacy skills
Partnership working within health and community settings
Emotional and practical support provision
Knowledge of legal options related to domestic abuse
Ability to maintain accurate and confidential case records
Excellent communication skills
Empowerment techniques for service users
Ability to handle sensitive information
Experience in working with vulnerable populations
Driving licence and access to a vehicle

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Health Independent Domestic Violence Advisor role. Familiarise yourself with the job description and person specification to tailor your application effectively.

Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application form, clearly outline your relevant experience in domestic violence support or related fields. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills in risk management, advocacy, and providing emotional support.

Address the Person Specification: Ensure that you address each point in the person specification within your application. This will show that you meet the essential requirements and are a suitable candidate for the role.

Follow Application Instructions: Since CVs are not accepted, make sure to complete the application form as instructed. Pay attention to detail and ensure that all sections are filled out accurately before submitting your application.

How to prepare for a job interview at First Light

✨Understand the Role Thoroughly

Before your interview, make sure you have a solid understanding of what the Health Independent Domestic Violence Advisor role entails. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities, such as risk management and providing emotional support, so you can discuss how your skills align with these requirements.

✨Showcase Your Experience

Prepare to share specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to handle sensitive situations and provide support to victims of domestic abuse. Highlight any relevant training or qualifications that make you a strong candidate for this role.

✨Demonstrate Empathy and Communication Skills

As an IDVA, you'll need to communicate effectively with both victims and health practitioners. Be ready to discuss how you approach difficult conversations and how you ensure that those in crisis feel heard and supported.

✨Ask Insightful Questions

Prepare thoughtful questions to ask during the interview. This could include inquiries about the training programme, the team dynamics, or how the organisation measures success in supporting victims. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.

Health Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA)
First Light
Location: Truro
Go Premium

Land your dream job quicker with Premium

You’re marked as a top applicant with our partner companies
Individual CV and cover letter feedback including tailoring to specific job roles
Be among the first applications for new jobs with our AI application
1:1 support and career advice from our career coaches
Go Premium

Money-back if you don't land a job in 6-months

>