At a Glance
- Tasks: Support victims of crime as a Senior IDVA, providing advice and managing cases.
- Company: Join Victim Support, a charity dedicated to helping those affected by crime across England and Wales.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 28+ days leave, birthday off, and discounts on various services.
- Other info: We value diversity and encourage applications from all backgrounds, especially underrepresented communities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: IDVA or ISAC qualification and experience in customer-focused service delivery required.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Senior IDVA to join the Specialist Services team in Bedfordshire. This is a fixed term contract until 31st March 2026, which may be extended subject to funding. This role will be hybrid and be located within Bedford Borough Council.
Do you want to make a difference every day? Do you want to contribute to change and improvement for those who need it? Do you have resilience and adaptability? Can you work effectively with a focus on customer service and care? If yes, then we'd love to hear from you.
What we offer:
- Flexible working options including hybrid working
- 28 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays, rising to 33 days plus Bank Holidays
- An extra day off for your birthday & options to buy or sell annual leave
- Pension with 5% employer contribution
- Enhanced sick pay allowances, maternity & paternity payments
- High Street, retail, holiday, gym, entertainment & leisure discounts
- Access to our financial wellbeing hub & salary deducted finance
- Employee assistance programme & wellbeing support
- Access to EDI networks and colleague cafes
- Cycle to work scheme & season ticket loans
- Ongoing training & support with opportunities for career development & progression
About this role:
This role supports the service across Bedford Borough. As a Team Leader for the Specialist Services team you will:
- Offer a consistent representative for the twice weekly MARAC
- Be a SPOC for the Front Door - giving advice and support around queries/ concerns about DA
- Carry a reduced caseload
- Support the Safe & Together model
- Have line management responsibilities including Bedford Borough IDVA
You will need:
- IDVA or ISAC qualification
- Experience in multi-agency partnerships and legislative frameworks
- Knowledge of equal opportunities, diversity, safeguarding, and risk assessments
- Understanding of confidentiality, safe working practices, and legal file maintenance
- Experience in customer-focused service delivery in challenging environments
- Crisis management and support experience
- Strong communication, negotiation, and advisory skills
- Ability to work independently, prioritise tasks, and manage competing demands
- Analytical skills for problem-solving and data reporting
- Proficiency in IT and software (Word, Excel, Case Management systems)
- Commitment to continuous self-development
Please see attached Job Description and Person Specification for further details.
About Us:
Victim Support (VS) is an independent charity providing a range of specialist services to people who have been affected by crime across England and Wales. We work towards a world where there are fewer victims but who have stronger rights, better support and a real influence in the Criminal Justice System. Everyone at VS is driven by our Vision Ambitions and Values to play their part in making a difference for those who experience crime and traumatic events.
Victim Support are committed to recruiting with care and to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Background checks and Disclosed Barring Service checks may be required.
Victim Support strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.
As part of our commitment to the Race at Work Charter we particularly welcome applicants from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.
If you have a disability, a learning difficulty such as dyslexia or a medical condition which you believe may affect your performance during any aspect of our selection process, we'll be happy to make reasonable adjustments to enable you to perform at your best.
How to apply:
To apply for this role please follow the link below to the Jobs page on our website, and complete the application form demonstrating how you meet the essential shortlisting criteria. We look forward to hearing from you.
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early, if we receive enough suitable applications to take forward to interview prior to the published closing date. If you have already registered & started an application, then we will contact you to advise of the amended closing date wherever possible.
Independent Domestic Violence Advocate in Bedford employer: Victim Support
Join our dedicated team in Avon & Somerset, where we prioritise resilience and compassion in supporting victims of adolescent and child to parent violence. As an employer, we offer a supportive work culture that fosters personal and professional growth, alongside comprehensive training and development opportunities. With a focus on meaningful impact, you will find a rewarding environment that values your contributions and encourages collaboration.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Independent Domestic Violence Advocate in Bedford
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Safe & Together model, as this is a key aspect of the role. Understanding how to apply this model in practice will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to effective domestic violence advocacy.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of domestic violence support and multi-agency partnerships. Attend relevant workshops or seminars to build connections and gain insights that could be beneficial during your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in crisis management and customer-focused service delivery. Think of specific examples where you successfully navigated challenging situations, as these will showcase your skills and resilience.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Victim Support's values and mission thoroughly. Being able to articulate how your personal values align with theirs will show your genuine interest in the role and the organisation, making you a more compelling candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Independent Domestic Violence Advocate in Bedford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Independent Domestic Violence Advocate position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these specific needs.
Highlight Relevant Experience:In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience in multi-agency partnerships, crisis management, and customer-focused service delivery. Use specific examples to demonstrate your ability to handle challenging environments effectively.
Showcase Your Skills:Make sure to mention your strong communication, negotiation, and analytical skills. Provide examples of how you've used these skills in previous roles, particularly in relation to safeguarding and risk assessments.
Personalise Your Application:Address your application to the hiring team at Victim Support and express your passion for making a difference in the lives of those affected by crime. A personal touch can make your application stand out.
How to prepare for a job interview at Victim Support
✨Show Your Passion for Advocacy
Make sure to express your genuine passion for supporting victims of domestic violence. Share personal experiences or motivations that led you to this field, as it will resonate with the interviewers and demonstrate your commitment.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that showcase your experience in multi-agency partnerships, crisis management, and customer-focused service delivery. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Demonstrate Strong Communication Skills
As an Independent Domestic Violence Advocate, effective communication is key. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, and be ready to discuss how you've successfully navigated challenging conversations in previous roles.
✨Research Victim Support's Values
Familiarise yourself with Victim Support's mission and values. Be prepared to discuss how your own values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their goal of providing high-quality services to victims and witnesses.
