Independent Gender Violence Advocate (IGVA)

Job Title: Independent Gender Violence Advocate (IGVA)

Location: The Gaia Centre, Lambeth

Salary: £14,428.56 per annum, including London weighting if applicable

Contract type: Part Time, Permanent

Hours: 18.75 hours per week (working days to be discussed)

Job Overview

We want kind and empathic people to work at Refuge, who believe in equality, diversity, and inclusion, are experts in their area of knowledge, want to make a positive difference and improve the lives of the women and children we support.

The independent gender violence advocate will work closely with victims of gender-based violence from the point of crisis, to provide high quality independent advocacy and support to survivors of gender-based violence at the highest risk and their children.

The role will be part of increasing the ability of partner agencies to recognise, reject and respond appropriately and safely to all forms of gender-based violence (including domestic violence, sexual, financial and emotional abuse, female genital mutilation, forced marriage and honour‑based violence). The post holder will empower survivors by providing them with emotional, practical and personal welfare support. The job involves ensuring that women are provided with a safe, supportive and welcoming environment, enabling them to access their rights, make decisions and increase their life options.

The job involves working within a multi‑agency framework consisting of the MARAC and local partnership protocols and procedures that prioritise the safety of survivors. The job involves informing survivors of the full range of civil, criminal, and practical options that might increase their safety.

This post is restricted to women due to the nature of the role. The Occupational Requirement under Schedule 9 (part 1) of the Equality Act 2010 applies.

Closing Date: 09:00am 1 April 2026

Interview Date: 9 and 10 April 2026