We're looking for a compassionate, proactive and resilient Independent Domestic Violence Adviser (IDVA) to join our Domestic Abuse Service in St Helens on a fixed-term contract until at least 31 March 2027. This is an opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of vulnerable individuals and families, empowering them to regain control and build safer futures.
In this role, you'll provide high-quality advocacy, practical support and specialist advice to survivors of domestic abuse assessed as being at high risk of serious harm or homicide. Acting as a trusted advocate, you'll work alongside survivors to increase their safety, reduce risk and help them access the support they need to move forward with confidence.
Working closely with partner agencies, including the police, local authorities, health professionals and specialist support services, you'll ensure survivors receive a coordinated response while keeping their voice, wishes and safety at the centre of all decision-making.
Working pattern:
You'll spend your first few months primarily based in the office and out in the community, giving you the opportunity to build your knowledge, develop confidence and get to know the team.
Following successful completion of your probation period, you'll have the opportunity to work in a hybrid way, with up to two days working from home each week. We'll take a supportive and flexible approach, balancing individual development needs with the requirements of the service.
What you'll be doing:
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Managing a caseload of high-risk domestic abuse cases, providing tailored advocacy, support and safety planning.
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Undertaking MERIT risk assessments to identify risk levels, support needs and appropriate interventions.
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Representing survivors at Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conferences (MARAC) and ensuring their voice is heard throughout the process.
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Working collaboratively with partner agencies to develop and implement plans that reduce risk and improve safety outcomes.
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Providing practical and emotional support, including guidance around housing, legal options, health, finance and access to specialist services.
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Supporting survivors to understand the dynamics and impact of domestic abuse, empowering them to make informed decisions about their future.
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Attending court hearings and other appointments where advocacy and support is required.
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Making referrals to internal and external services to ensure survivors receive holistic support tailored to their individual circumstances.
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Maintaining accurate and timely case records, risk assessments, support plans and outcomes using case management systems.
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Promoting safeguarding and ensuring concerns relating to vulnerable adults and children are reported and managed in line with safeguarding procedures.
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Sharing specialist knowledge and contributing to awareness raising, partnership working and the continuous development of domestic abuse services.
What we're looking for:
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Experience supporting individuals and families affected by domestic abuse and/or other complex needs, with a proven ability to manage a caseload and achieve positive outcomes.
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Strong knowledge of domestic abuse, safeguarding, risk assessment and safety planning, including a trauma-informed and survivor-centred approach.
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Knowledge of legislation and guidance relating to domestic abuse and safeguarding, including the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, and wider support services available.
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Excellent communication, advocacy and relationship-building skills, with the ability to work effectively with clients, colleagues and partner agencies.
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Experience using case management systems and maintaining accurate, confidential records.
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The ability to manage challenging situations professionally, demonstrate sound judgement and make informed decisions to reduce risk and improve safety.
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A resilient, organised and adaptable approach, with the ability to maintain professional boundaries and manage competing priorities.
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A commitment to equality, inclusion and empowering survivors to make informed choices and regain control of their lives.
Interview process:
Interviews will take place at our St Helens Office on Wednesday 17th September and Thursday 18th September 2026, and will include a 15-minute case study written exercise and a competency-based interview, focusing on your experience, decision-making, safeguarding knowledge and ability to support survivors of domestic abuse.
What we offer:
Torus offers a great benefits package designed to support you on and off the job. You can view our full employee benefits pack on our website to see everything available across the Torus Group. Please see below an overview of our key employee benefits:
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Generous annual leave – 25 days plus bank holidays, rising each year up to 28.
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Health and Wellness – For eligible roles, we offer additional health support such as BUPA health expenses coverage, helping you manage everyday healthcare costs.
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Family support – enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay.
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Financial flexibility – Aviva pension and Wagestream for instant access to part of your pay.
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Travel & transport perks – lease car scheme and discounts on bikes, holidays and more.
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Continuous learning – e-learning, workshops and support for professional qualifications.
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Recognition & wellbeing – reward schemes, volunteering, enhanced sick pay and discounted gym memberships.
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Flexible working – agile working that supports your needs on and off the job.
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Comfortable workspaces – good offices, strong transport links, employee assistance and occupational health support.
Additional Information:
Each successful applicant will be required to complete the following pre-employment checks prior to a start date being agreed:
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Right to work verification
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Qualification certificate check (where applicable)
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Two satisfactory references
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Occupational Health questionnaire – Fit for Work
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Enhanced DBS check
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Completion of all new starter documentation, including signed terms and conditions
Please note, we reserve the right to close this advert early if we receive a sufficient number of applications.
