Specialist Domestic & Sexual Violence Adviser
Specialist Domestic & Sexual Violence Adviser

Specialist Domestic & Sexual Violence Adviser

London Full-Time 38500 - 46000 Β£ / year (est.) No home office possible
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King's College London

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support students facing domestic and sexual violence, providing tailored guidance and advocacy.
  • Company: Join King's College London, a leading global university dedicated to impactful research and education.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a full-time role with an indefinite contract and competitive salary.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in a supportive and inclusive environment.
  • Qualifications: Degree level education or relevant professional qualifications; experience in direct support is essential.
  • Other info: Interviews scheduled for 19th June 2025; apply by 25th May 2025.

The predicted salary is between 38500 - 46000 Β£ per year.

About Us

King's College London, a leading global university with a commitment to impactful research and education, provides comprehensive support services for its diverse student body.

Within Student Advice, Wellbeing and Welfare Services, dedicated practitioners, including the Specialist Domestic and Sexual Violence Adviser, offer crucial assistance to students facing a range of complex challenges affecting their lives and studies. These professionals work collaboratively to ensure a supportive and inclusive environment for all.

About The Role

The Specialist Domestic and Sexual Violence Adviser within Student Support & Wellbeing Services provides crucial support to students affected by harassment and/or sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment, assault, rape, unwanted sexual conduct, bullying, domestic violence, and coercive control. The role also encompasses broader welfare cases to ensure comprehensive student support.

Supporting a diverse student population, including those with complex needs, the post holder offers tailored guidance and advocacy. The varied and challenging caseload involves navigating difficult situations for students and connecting them with relevant internal and external specialist services. Key responsibilities include:

  • Conducting risk and safety assessments
  • Contributing to coordinated support plans through collaboration with university colleagues and external partners
  • Aiming to reduce harm and improve student well-being

Maintaining case ownership until initial concerns are stabilised and appropriate support is in place is essential. The role demands a strong understanding of domestic and sexual violence/abuse, safeguarding principles, and the evolving regulatory landscape concerning harassment and sexual misconduct within a university context. This is a full time post (35 Hours per week), and you will be offered an indefinite contract.

About You

To be successful in this role, we are looking for candidates to have the following skills and experience:

  • Essential Criteria
  • Education/Qualification: Educated to degree level or possess relevant professional qualifications such as ISVA, IDVA, Social Work, or a similar field.
  • Expert Knowledge: Deep understanding of domestic abuse and sexual violence dynamics, trauma, and impact, including familiarity with UK legislation, national guidance and safeguarding procedures.
  • Risk Assessment & Safety Planning Proficiency: Proven ability to conduct risk assessments and develop safety plans.
  • Direct Support Experience: Demonstrable experience providing direct support and advocacy to those who have experienced domestic/sexual violence or harm.
  • Strong Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Excellent ability to communicate sensitively and build rapport with diverse individuals.
  • Understanding of Confidentiality & Safeguarding: Firm grasp of data protection and information sharing protocols.
  • Understanding of higher education: Understanding the current context of pressures and concerns in relation to student engagement and participation, and how to be an ally in navigating these, including those who are experiencing mental ill-health.
  • Effective Caseload Management: Ability to manage a caseload, prioritise, and maintain accurate records.
  • Desirable criteria
    • Higher Education Experience: Understanding of the university environment and its specific challenges.
    • Line management experience: Proven experience in supervising and supporting staff, including performance management and professional development.

    Further Information

    We ask all candidates to submit a copy of their CV, and a supporting statement, detailing how they meet the essential criteria listed in the advert. If we receive a strong field of candidates, we may use the desirable criteria to choose our final shortlist, so please include your evidence against these where possible.

    Interviews are due to be held on 19th June 2025.

    Grade and Salary: Β£44,355 – Β£51,735 per annum, including London Weighting Allowance

    Job ID: 114565

    Close Date: 25-May-2025

    Specialist Domestic & Sexual Violence Adviser employer: King's College London

    King's College London is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment that prioritises the well-being of both staff and students. As a leading global university, it provides extensive professional development opportunities and fosters a culture of collaboration among dedicated practitioners, making it an ideal place for those passionate about making a meaningful impact in the lives of students facing domestic and sexual violence challenges.
    King's College London

    Contact Detail:

    King's College London Recruiting Team

    StudySmarter Expert Advice 🀫

    We think this is how you could land Specialist Domestic & Sexual Violence Adviser

    ✨Tip Number 1

    Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges faced by students in higher education, particularly those related to domestic and sexual violence. Understanding these issues will help you demonstrate your empathy and insight during interviews.

    ✨Tip Number 2

    Network with professionals already working in student support or similar roles. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights into the role and may even lead to referrals, increasing your chances of landing an interview.

    ✨Tip Number 3

    Stay updated on current legislation and best practices regarding domestic and sexual violence support. Being knowledgeable about recent changes can set you apart as a candidate who is proactive and well-informed.

    ✨Tip Number 4

    Prepare for potential scenario-based questions during the interview. Think through how you would handle various situations involving students in distress, showcasing your problem-solving skills and ability to provide effective support.

    We think you need these skills to ace Specialist Domestic & Sexual Violence Adviser

    Deep understanding of domestic abuse and sexual violence dynamics
    Familiarity with UK legislation and national guidance on safeguarding
    Proficiency in conducting risk assessments and developing safety plans
    Experience providing direct support and advocacy to victims of domestic/sexual violence
    Strong communication and interpersonal skills
    Understanding of confidentiality and data protection protocols
    Knowledge of the current pressures and concerns in higher education
    Effective caseload management and prioritisation skills
    Ability to build rapport with diverse individuals
    Experience in supervising and supporting staff (desirable)
    Understanding of the university environment and its specific challenges (desirable)

    Some tips for your application 🫑

    Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Specialist Domestic & Sexual Violence Adviser role. Familiarise yourself with the key skills needed, such as risk assessment and direct support experience.

    Tailor Your Supporting Statement: Craft a supporting statement that directly addresses the essential criteria listed in the job description. Use specific examples from your experience to demonstrate how you meet these criteria, particularly in areas like communication skills and understanding of safeguarding.

    Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasise any relevant qualifications or experience related to domestic and sexual violence support. Include details about your education, professional qualifications, and any direct support roles you've held that align with the job requirements.

    Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread your CV and supporting statement. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that your documents are clear and concise. A polished application reflects your attention to detail.

    How to prepare for a job interview at King's College London

    ✨Show Your Understanding of the Role

    Make sure to demonstrate your knowledge of domestic and sexual violence dynamics during the interview. Discuss relevant legislation and safeguarding procedures, as this will show that you are well-prepared and understand the complexities of the role.

    ✨Highlight Your Direct Support Experience

    Be ready to share specific examples from your past experiences where you provided direct support to individuals affected by domestic or sexual violence. This will help illustrate your capability and empathy in handling sensitive situations.

    ✨Emphasise Communication Skills

    Since strong communication and interpersonal skills are crucial for this role, prepare to discuss how you've built rapport with diverse individuals in previous roles. Consider sharing a scenario where effective communication made a significant difference.

    ✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions

    Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your ability to conduct risk assessments and develop safety plans. Practise articulating your thought process and decision-making strategies in these situations to showcase your expertise.

    Specialist Domestic & Sexual Violence Adviser
    King's College London
    Location: London
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