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- Tasks: Support survivors of gender-based violence with advocacy and housing needs.
- Company: The GAIA Centre, a dedicated organisation in Lambeth, London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, and supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a passionate team committed to ending gender-based violence.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of survivors and empower them.
- Qualifications: Experience in advocacy or support roles, particularly with vulnerable individuals.
The predicted salary is between 29701 - 29701 £ per year.
Location: The GAIA Centre (Lambeth, London)
Salary: £29,701.36 per annum (Inclusive of London Weighting, which may not be applicable depending on your home location and any agreed permanent homeworking arrangement)
Contract type: Full time, Permanent
Hours: 37.5 hours per week. The working pattern is 9am – 5pm Monday – Friday. Occasional late early shifts: 8am-4pm or late shifts: 1pm – 6pm on a rota basis to cover duty (approximately 2-3 days a month). Flexibility on how the hours is spread across the week within these times.
The Housing Independent Gender Violence Advocate (IGVA) will be embedded within borough housing teams to facilitate the dual working that will ensure that survivors’ safety and housing needs are met. This includes:
- Close working relationships with Housing colleagues
- Provision of specialist knowledge relating to DA for Housing Officers and Homelessness Teams to draw on
- Specialist support for survivors at the moment of crisis
- Provision of advocacy; supporting survivors to access safe accommodation
- Ongoing support from the IGVA from wider DA service, including access to group clinical supervision, casework management meetings, reflective practice sessions, one-to-one supervision from service manager
The Housing IGVA 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 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, housing and practical options that might increase their safety. The post holder will empower survivors by providing them with emotional, practical and personal welfare support especially around complex housing needs.
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. 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 June 2026
Interview Date: 8 and 9 June 2026
Locations
Housing Independent Gender Violence Advocate (Housing IGVA) in Lambeth, London employer: Refuge
Contact Detail:
Refuge Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Housing Independent Gender Violence Advocate (Housing IGVA) in Lambeth, London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the housing and advocacy sectors. Attend events, join online forums, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its values. Understand their approach to gender-based violence and housing support. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interview skills with a friend or mentor. Get comfortable discussing your experiences and how they relate to the role of Housing IGVA. The more you rehearse, the more confident you'll feel when it’s time to shine!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search. So, get those applications in and let’s make a difference together!
We think you need these skills to ace Housing Independent Gender Violence Advocate (Housing IGVA) in Lambeth, London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Housing IGVA. We want to see how you can bring your unique perspective to support survivors effectively.
Showcase Relevant Experience: When detailing your experience, focus on any work you've done in advocacy, housing, or supporting individuals facing gender-based violence. We love seeing real-life examples that demonstrate your commitment and capability.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your passion for the role shines through without unnecessary fluff.
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 important role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Refuge
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the key issues surrounding gender-based violence and housing. Familiarise yourself with relevant legislation, local resources, and the specific challenges survivors face. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your expertise and commitment during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
As a Housing IGVA, you'll be working closely with survivors. Be prepared to discuss how you would approach sensitive situations with compassion and understanding. Share examples from your past experiences where you've successfully supported individuals in crisis.
✨Highlight Teamwork Skills
This role involves collaboration with various agencies and housing teams. Be ready to talk about your experience working in multi-agency settings. Discuss how you’ve built relationships and communicated effectively with colleagues to achieve common goals.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, team dynamics, and the organisation's approach to supporting survivors. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if the position is the right fit for you.