At a Glance
- Tasks: Support child victims of sexual violence through crisis intervention and advocacy.
- Company: First Light, a dedicated organisation focused on equality and inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, well-being resources, and professional training.
- Other info: Join a supportive team committed to diversity and personal well-being.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Valid UK driving licence and access to a vehicle required.
Salary: £25,954 per annum rising to £26,364 per annum on successful completion of probation and £28,002 per annum after accreditation
Hours: 37.5 hours per week (Monday - Friday, 09:00-17:00)
Base: The Gables, Swindon, possibility for hybrid or some remote working where appropriate
Area Covered: Swindon and Wiltshire
Contract: Fixed term 18 month contract.
About the Role
To work in a multi-agency setting providing a pro-active crisis intervention service to child victims of sexual violence within and outside of the criminal justice system. The post holder will work pro-actively to risk assess and support client needs and develop a comprehensive support plan to help keep victims safe. This role will use advocacy and partnership working skills to ensure victims are supported throughout the criminal justice system from report to court, and to access services to which they are entitled. There is a commitment to providing a high quality, victim-focused and inclusive service as outlined in the Victim Code of Practice. The post holder will manage a busy caseload and have excellent partnership skills and an understanding of Children's and Vulnerable people Safeguarding procedures. This role will work proactively as part of the ISVA Team and will have respect for the diversity of the community in which the service works to ensure the services is accessible to all. The post holder will be required to provide advocacy and information to clients in high risk situations where the safety of the service user and self is to be prioritised. Appropriate professional record keeping is required using the client information system. We encourage applications from all genders.
Key responsibilities:
- The Post Holder should have a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of Sexual Violence, and its impact on Victims, Family Members and Wider Society
- The post holder will travel throughout Swindon and Wiltshire to provide support to clients under 18 years of age.
- Manage a caseload of clients aged 0-18 that will vary between child sexual abuse/violence and child sexual exploitation cases, providing an individual support care plan to meet their needs.
- The post holder will provide face to face, telephone and email support to clients and their supporters where appropriate
- Ensure that a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of sexual violence and child sexual exploitation, and its impact on victims, family members and wider society.
- Be proactive and develop the role of the Children and Young People’s Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (CYP ISVA) across First Light
- Be respectful of the diversity of CYP’s and of the need to prioritise the accessibility of service provision.
- CYP ISVA will support children and young people through the criminal justice process and liaise with the police accordingly.
- The CYP ISVA’s will respond to crisis situations as they arise with their clients and complete onward safeguarding referrals.
- CYP ISVA’s will engage with other agencies such as Paediatric SARC (The Bridge), CAMHS, social services, police and counselling services to provide a multi-agency approach for their clients.
Essential requirements:
- The Post Holder will hold a Valid UK Driving License and have access to a Vehicle.
Added benefits:
- A comprehensive induction and training programme, with a hybrid working policy for a better work/life balance.
- A well-being day per financial year (1st April to 31st March)
- Access to external supervision to discuss personal or emotional responses to traumatic cases, to ensure emotional and psychological well-being.
- Health and well-being resources including our staff Well-being 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 encourage applications from all sections of the community, and all backgrounds regardless of age, race, faith, disability, neurodiversities, genders, gender expression or sexuality.
- First Light are a Disability Confident Committed Employer and have an LGBTQIA+ Staff Network.
- Annual pay review and employer contribution pension scheme.
Additional Information:
The successful applicant will be subject to a Disclosure & Barring check, and a social media check conducted by a third party organisation as part of our Safer Recruitment process. Any future offer of employment is contingent on the satisfactory completion of these checks, as well as the receipt of two satisfactory employment references, with one being from your current or most recent employer. 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: 09:00 Monday 21st September 2026
Expected date for interviews: Monday 28th September 2026
If you do not hear from us within 10 working days of the deadline for receipt of applications, please assume you have been unsuccessful at this time. We reserve the right to withdraw this advert early for the right candidate, so we encourage early applications.
To Apply
If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to work for First Light, please click apply to be redirected to our website to complete your application.
Swindon and Wiltshire Children & Young Peoples Independent Sexual Viol employer: First Light
First Light is an exceptional employer, dedicated to supporting child victims of sexual violence with a compassionate and victim-focused approach. Our work culture fosters collaboration and innovation, providing employees with meaningful opportunities for professional growth while making a real difference in the community. With hybrid working options and a commitment to employee well-being, we ensure that our team members thrive both personally and professionally in the vibrant locations of Swindon and Wiltshire.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Swindon and Wiltshire Children & Young Peoples Independent Sexual Viol
✨Get Involved in Local Community Projects
One of the best ways to land a temporary role in social work is to dive headfirst into local community projects. Volunteer your time or skills at local charities or community centres to not only gain experience but also to connect with professionals in the field. They might just have some insider knowledge on temporary positions that pop up!
✨Engage with Social Work Networks
Join online forums and social media groups specifically for social workers. Platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn have dedicated groups where professionals share temporary job opportunities. Being an active member can help you stay in the loop and even get recommendations from those already in the field.
✨Attend Workshops and Seminars
Keep an eye out for workshops, seminars, or conferences related to social work in your area. These events aren't just great for learning; they're also hotbeds for networking! You never know who might be hiring or can point you towards a temporary position while you're soaking up new skills.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website!
When you spot a role that piques your interest, especially for a temporary position, make sure to apply directly through our website! This not only shows your commitment to First Light, but also gives you an edge by putting your application right in front of the hiring team. Let’s get you moving on that path to your next opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Swindon and Wiltshire Children & Young Peoples Independent Sexual Viol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let's highlight why you're passionate about social work and how your values align with those of First Light. Share specific experiences where you made a difference, as this field thrives on genuine motivation and connection.
Demonstrate Relevant Experience:When listing your experience, focus on any internships, volunteer roles, or temporary positions you've had in social work or related fields. Those skills are gold! Think about situations where you helped individuals or communities, and don't forget to mention any relevant certifications, like safeguarding or mental health first aid.
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Remember, for a temporary role, hiring managers want to see how you fit in and can hit the ground running. Keep your CV clear and to the point, showcasing only the experience that really matters for the role at First Light. We recommend a two-page limit – make every word count!
Emphasise Flexibility and Adaptability:Considering this is a temporary position, it's vital to show you can adapt to new environments quickly. In your application, highlight any past experiences where you had to adjust to different teams or roles smoothly. This shows you understand the nature of temporary work and are ready for the challenge!
How to prepare for a job interview at First Light
✨Sharpen Your Empathy Skills
In social work, it's all about understanding and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Make sure to prepare some examples from your experience where you've demonstrated empathy and resilience. Practising active listening techniques can help you articulate your approach during the interview with First Light.
✨Know Your Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with key social work theories and frameworks, like the ecological systems theory or person-centred approaches. These concepts might pop up during your interview for the temporary Swindon and Wiltshire Children & Young Peoples Independent Sexual Viol role at First Light, so it's good to have a couple of insights ready to share.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
Since this is a temporary position, showcasing your flexibility is key. Be prepared to discuss past experiences where you quickly adapted to new environments or changing client needs, which is crucial in the dynamic world of social work.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions that test your decision-making skills and ethical judgement. Think about how you would handle specific challenges you might face in the field. Having a clear structure for your answers will show First Light that you can think critically and act effectively under pressure.
