At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide trauma-informed advocacy and case management for domestic abuse survivors.
- Company: Key Unlocking Futures, a leading charity making a real difference in lives.
- Benefits: 25 days annual leave, health cash plan, flexible working, and professional development support.
- Other info: Dynamic role with ongoing mentoring and a focus on wellbeing.
- Why this job: Join a supportive team and empower individuals to rebuild their lives.
- Qualifications: IDVA qualification or relevant experience with a commitment to accreditation.
The predicted salary is between 28476 - 29470 € per year.
Reference: MAY20261391
Expiry date: 22:59, Mon, 25th May 2026
Location: Leyland
Benefits: A benefits package focused on work‑life balance. 25 days paid leave (FTE) plus bank holidays. Access to Employee Assistance Programme EAP Health Cash Plan via Medicash.
Salary: Grade E – £28,476 to £29,470
Hours: 36.5 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
An ideal next step for professionals building a career in domestic abuse advocacy. This is an exciting opportunity for individuals who are already qualified as an IDVA or who are working in related frontline or support roles and are ready to progress into a specialist domestic abuse advocacy position.
We welcome applications from candidates who:
- Hold a recognised IDVA qualification or
- Have relevant experience and are committed to achieving IDVA accreditation with structured organisational support
This role has been designed to support professional development while maintaining high‑quality, safe service delivery. You may currently be working in roles such as:
- Refuge or housing support
- Family, youth or community work
- Mental health or substance misuse services
- MARRAC administration or coordination
- Charity or third‑sector caseworker roles
- Police, probation or criminal justice support roles
In post, you will benefit from high‑quality supervision, professional mentoring and ongoing peer support, within a well‑established, trauma‑informed service that values both experience and continued professional development.
Support from day one:
- No unsupervised high‑risk cases during your development period
- A gradual and supported caseload build‑up
- A named supervisor / mentor
- Regular reflective supervision focused on practice and wellbeing
- Clear escalation routes for managing risk
- A fully funded IDVA qualification pathway, where required, with a clear and supportive timeline
What the role involves:
As an IDVA, you will provide specialist, trauma‑informed advocacy and case management to individuals assessed as being at medium and high risk of domestic abuse. You will:
- Carry out risk assessment, safety planning and needs‑led support
- Work in partnership with statutory and voluntary agencies
- Advocate on behalf of survivors to ensure their voices are heard
- Represent cases at MARRAC and through multi‑agency pathways
This is a rewarding role where your work directly contributes to safer outcomes and positive change for individuals and families.
What we’re looking for:
- An experienced or developing specialist
- Experience supporting vulnerable individuals within safeguarding, advocacy or casework settings
- Experience of conducting risk assessments, safety planning and multi‑agency working
- A strong commitment to empowering survivors and supporting informed choice
- Confidence communicating and advocating on behalf of clients within trauma‑informed services
- Digitally skilled and organised
- Comfortable using digital systems to maintain accurate case records
- Outcome‑focused, organised and professional
- Ability to travel
Due to the community‑based nature of the role, a full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle is essential.
What we offer:
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Pension scheme with employer contributions (typically up to 5%)
- Medicash Health Cash Plan (optical, dental and therapies)
- Employee Assistance Programme (24/7 support)
- TOIL and flexible working options
- Access to wellbeing resources, mental health support and staff networks
Key Unlocking Futures, a core partner within the DASSL (Domestic Abuse Support Services Lancashire) network, is a leading charity delivering life‑changing support across Lancashire. For over 30 years, Key Unlocking Futures has supported people before crisis point and empowered individuals and families to rebuild their lives. Each year, we support more than 7,000 people, with our domestic abuse services playing a vital role across the county.
Ready to make a real difference? If you’re looking for a role where your work genuinely changes lives, we’d love to hear from you. Key Unlocking Futures is part of Progress Housing Group. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates. Applications from under‑represented groups are particularly encouraged.
Independent Domestic Violence Advocate (IDVA) employer: Progress Housing Group
Key Unlocking Futures is an exceptional employer dedicated to supporting the professional growth of its staff while providing a meaningful impact in the community. With a strong focus on work-life balance, generous leave policies, and comprehensive support systems, employees are empowered to thrive in their roles as Independent Domestic Violence Advocates. The organisation fosters a collaborative and trauma-informed work culture, ensuring that every team member receives the guidance and resources needed to excel in their advocacy efforts.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Independent Domestic Violence Advocate (IDVA)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the domestic abuse advocacy field. Let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities, and they might just have the inside scoop on openings that aren't advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to IDVA roles. Think about your experiences with risk assessments and multi-agency working, and be ready to share specific examples that highlight your skills and commitment to empowering survivors.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your digital skills! Make sure you’re comfortable discussing how you use digital systems to maintain accurate case records. This is crucial in today’s advocacy work, so be prepared to demonstrate your tech-savviness during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining a team that’s making a real difference in the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Independent Domestic Violence Advocate (IDVA)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the IDVA role. Highlight your relevant experience and qualifications, and show us how you align with our values and mission.
Showcase Your Skills:We want to see your skills in action! Use specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your ability to conduct risk assessments, safety planning, and advocacy work. This will help us understand your approach to supporting survivors.
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through in your application. We value authenticity and want to know what drives you to work in domestic abuse advocacy. Share your passion and commitment to making a difference!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Progress Housing Group
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of the IDVA role. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities, such as risk assessment and safety planning, and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with these tasks.
✨Show Your Passion
This role is all about empowering survivors and making a difference. Be prepared to share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to supporting vulnerable individuals and your understanding of trauma-informed care.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions during the interview. Think about past situations where you’ve had to advocate for someone or manage a crisis, and be ready to explain your thought process and actions clearly.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking questions. Inquire about the support systems in place for new IDVAs or how the organisation measures success in their advocacy work. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
