Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA)

Positive Action in the CommunityRegistered Charity Number: 1088536 |  Company by Limited Guarantee: 04167948Registered in England and Wales, Hills House, Leeds Road, Nelson, BB9 8ELRECRUITMENT PACKRole: Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA)Deadline: 9am,  Wednesday 18 March 2026 thHello and thank you so much for taking an interest in our IDVA role here at PositiveAction in the Community (PAC). I am thrilled to have the opportunity to introduce andwelcome our Charity to you. I do hope that on reading the following information you willgain an insight into the work we do and the differences we make in our community. As acharity we have over 25 years’ experience of delivery and we continue to be a growing,ambitious, and passionate charity with strong foundations of fantastic people across ourprojects, including our central team, our services and programmes teams, our SeniorLeadership Team (SLT) and our board of trustees. We pride ourselves on meeting the needs of our community by embracing evidencebased and innovative approaches that create the greatest opportunities for moreoutcomes for more people. We are driven by our Mission, Vision and Values andmotivated by our purpose. So if you feel that this is something you want to be part of,that you can bring new ideas to, and that you could enhance our strong foundations,then we strongly encourage you to apply. If you do have further questions after readingthis pack, please do feel free to get in contact with us either by email on recruitment@p-a-c.org.uk or via telephone on 01282 227649. We look forward to receiving yourapplication.ClaireHELLO FROM OUR CEO,CLAIRE BENNETTPositive Action in the CommunityRegistered Charity Number: 1088536 |  Company by Limited Guarantee: 04167948Registered in England and Wales, Hills House, Leeds Road, Nelson, BB9 8ELOUR VISION, MISSION, VALUES & PURPOSEVisionTo have a community that gives the greatest opportunities for a safe, fulfilled andaspirational life free from domestic abuse, homelessness and poor mental health.MissionWe aim to make a positive difference to those impacted by Domestic abuse, homelessnessor/and poor mental health by developing innovative responses to need and providing highquality, specialist support to build independent resilience and live safely.ValuesSupportive / Empowering – to have support and be supportiveInnovative –  to be creative in lifeInspirational / aspirational –  to be inspired and to want to achieveIntegration –  to be part of somethingResilience -  to keep growing and learning at lifePurposeTo make a positive difference To proactively meet unmet needs and gaps – providing early intervention to supportstatutory, family and community needsTo empower service users’ to reach their potential and thriveTo build strong futures for communities and create generational changeTo be a trusted organisation – which is professional and respected for the quality of itsservices and its approachability and flexibilityPositive Action in the CommunityRegistered Charity Number: 1088536 |  Company by Limited Guarantee: 04167948Registered in England and Wales, Hills House, Leeds Road, Nelson, BB9 8ELABOUT US & OUR HISTORYPAC – Positive Action in the Community was set up in 1999 to meet the needs of the Pendlecommunity which were not being met through statutory provision or by other organisations,since then we have expanded to deliver support provision across East Lancashire. Our mission statement is: To provide public benefits for the inhabitants of the North of England without distinction of sex, or of political,religious or other opinions, by associating the Local Authorities, Voluntary Organisations, and local inhabitantsin the following ways: (i) The prevention and the relief of poverty. (ii) To promote the education of persons who through their social and economic circumstances are in need andunable to gain employment and in particular to provide or support schemes where such persons may acquireand develop vocational skills which will enhance their employment prospects their physical and emotionalhealth and well-being. (iii) To provide facilities in the interest of social welfare for recreation and leisure time occupation with theobject of improving the conditions of life of those persons in need, hardship or distress. (iv) To advance education for the public benefit by providing advice and guidance upon questions ofunemployment, housing, domestic abuse, safeguarding and social welfare and related topics (v) To assist persons of limited means in cases of social hardship or economic misfortune upon termsappropriate to their means whether or not members of the society to find appropriate living accommodationand whilst so doing to provide where possible temporary shelter in properties managed by the charity fromtime to time. PAC was previously known as Pendle Action for the Community, but due to demand for ourprovision outside of Pendle our name was changed in 2016 to remove any barriers andconfusion caused to beneficiaries, ensuring access was for all.  PAC is supported by a board of committed voluntary trustees who bring with them a wealth ofexperience, and knowledge ranging from legal services, business and project management,financial management, educational services, health and safety, employment and trainingopportunities and charity governance. PAC employs an incredible and dedicated frontline workforce ranging from volunteers,support staff, management, a central administration and project support team, alongside aCEO and senior leadership team who facilitate strategic and operational development of thecharity.Positive Action in the CommunityRegistered Charity Number: 1088536 |  Company by Limited Guarantee: 04167948Registered in England and Wales, Hills House, Leeds Road, Nelson, BB9 8ELOUR PROVISIONPositive Action in the CommunityRegistered Charity Number: 1088536 |  Company by Limited Guarantee: 04167948Registered in England and Wales, Hills House, Leeds Road, Nelson, BB9 8ELBe Free exists to support and empower victim-survivors of domestic abuse by providingcompassionate, trauma-informed services that promote safety, healing and choice, whileadvocating for dignity, justice and a future free from abuse.Be Free are committed to listening without judgment and standing alongside victim-survivors ofdomestic abuse with compassion, respect and belief. As a specialist service, Be Free provide safe,trauma-informed and culturally responsive support tailored to individual needs, empowering eachperson to make informed choices, regain control and move towards safety and recovery at their ownpace.SafeSpace provides supported accommodation for young people in Lancashire between the agesof 16 and 21 with experience of homelessness. Across 3 sites, providing 44 units ofaccommodation in total, SafeSpace provides a safe, supportive and nurturing environmentwhere young people can build life skills, regain confidence and achieve long-term stability intheir journey towards independence. SafeSpace offer young people guidance, resources, supportand practical assistance tailored to individual needs, always with kindness, respect, andunderstanding. All SafeSpace sites, in Pendle, Rossendale and Hyndburn, are staffed 24 hours aday, 7 days a week, all year round. SafeSpace is regulated by Ofsted under the SupportedAccommodation (England) Regulations 2023. SafeSpace have a youth homelessness prevention service called HAPI (Homelessness AwarenessPrevention Interventions) which is available to young people aged 14-25 years in Pendle, Burnleyand Rossendale providing support to young people in crisis in relation to their housing needs.  Be Free’s community provision is available for adults, young people and children who live inPendle and Rossendale. Be Free’s safe accommodation provision is based in Pendle and is available for women andchildren escaping Domestic Abuse from across the country.Be Free is a Women’s Aid member and a partner of DASSL (Domestic Abuse Support ServicesLancashire).Evolve delivers a number of community wellbeing programmes and aims to develop the pathway toindependence to support wellbeing, personal development and opportunities for individuals in ourcommunities. Evolve programmes are delivered by experienced workers and our counselling service isdelivered by qualified counsellors who are fully insured and comply with BACP regulations. Evolve provides: Education, employability and life skills programmes for individuals addressing barriers to engagingin education or employmentCounselling programmes for PAC service users or individuals in the communityPeer parenting support groups for parents with children with emotional or mental health needsYouth work provisionTraining around Mental Health First Aid and Suicide PreventionPositive Action in the CommunityRegistered Charity Number: 1088536 |  Company by Limited Guarantee: 04167948Registered in England and Wales, Hills House, Leeds Road, Nelson, BB9 8ELPositive Action in the CommunityRegistered Charity Number: 1088536 |  Company by Limited Guarantee: 04167948Registered in England and Wales, Hills House, Leeds Road, Nelson, BB9 8ELOUR ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURESTAFF BENEFITSPositive Action in the CommunityRegistered Charity Number: 1088536 |  Company by Limited Guarantee: 04167948Registered in England and Wales, Hills House, Leeds Road, Nelson, BB9 8ELPositive Action in the CommunityRegistered Charity Number: 1088536 |  Company by Limited Guarantee: 04167948Registered in England and Wales, Hills House, Leeds Road, Nelson, BB9 8ELJOB DESCRIPTIONJob Title:  Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA)Service: Be FreeSalary: Unqualified £27,699 | Qualified £29,632 - £30,682Responsible to: Domestic Abuse Project ManagerResponsible for: NoneWorking hours: To be worked Monday to Friday, between the hours of 9am – 5pm, working flexibly where required.The main objectives to be achieved by the post holder1.1 To work as a member of the Be Free team; providing a high-quality frontline service for victim-survivors of Domestic        Abuse.1.2 To lead on support for those considered high risk of serious harm; working within a multi-agency framework and          implementing crisis intervention and risk management to improve victim-survivor safety.1.3 Maintain a working knowledge of Positive Action for the Community policy and procedures and comply to all.1.4 To be positive and motivational in promoting PAC’s ethos and values.Support 2.1 To effectively respond to all referrals (new clients) and escalation of risk (current clients); supporting victim-survivors of          domestic abuse to help them access services to keep them and their children safe.2.2 Identify and assess the risks and needs of victim-survivors of domestic abuse using an evidence-based risk identification        checklist.2.3 Provide a pro-active, short to medium term crisis intervention service through individual safety planning and personal        support planning to medium and high risk victims-survivors; reviewing such plans to reflect changing and emerging needs        and keeping complex needs central to all processes and decisions. 2.4 Advocate for victim-survivors with agencies who can help to address domestic abuse by:      a. Understanding the role of all relevant statutory and non-statutory services available to victim-survivors of domestic                      abuse and how your role fits into them.       b. Providing advocacy, emotional and practical support and information to victim-survivors including exploration of legal         and civil options, housing, health and finance.       c. Working directly with all key agency partners to address the safety of high risk victim-survivors and ensuring that their        safety plans are coordinated particularly through the MARAC.2.5 To hold and manage a case load ensuring each client receives the appropriate service individual to the identified risks,          vulnerabilities and needs.Positive Action in the CommunityRegistered Charity Number: 1088536 |  Company by Limited Guarantee: 04167948Registered in England and Wales, Hills House, Leeds Road, Nelson, BB9 8EL2.6 Understand multi-agency partnership structures and work within a multi-agency setting including full participation at the       MARAC while maintaining an independent role on behalf of clients, keeping their voices and safety central to any       responses.2.7 In accordance with Be Free’s case management policy, be proactive with your line manager in carrying out periodic case        reviews based on a review of risk and abuse which:        a. Feeds back into action planning to further progress, signpost or close cases and;        b. Provides feedback to your clients/agencies.2.8 Support colleagues and partner agencies, through awareness raising and institutional advocacy, in order to provide the        best possible service for victim-survivors of domestic abuse.2.9 Support service users in understanding their strengths, identifying targets and achieving outcomes in line with a support       plan, including the creation and review of the support plan.2.10 Ensure that risk assessment and risk management procedures are followed at all times, prioritising those most at risk.2.11 To support the empowerment of service users and assist them in recognising the features and dynamics of domestic         abuse present in their situation, helping them to regain control of their lives. 2.12 Provide information and advocacy to enable service users to navigate and understand the criminal justice process and            ensure their rights are upheld in accordance with the Victims Code of Practice.2.13 To work and deliver all aspects of support in a trauma informed way. 2.14 To engage in all aspects of the Lancashire Continuum of Need including the Lancashire Early Help Assessment process,          Team Around the Family, Child in Need, Child Protection and Looked after Children protocols.2.15 To be responsible for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of service users at all times.2.16 To promote participation of service users in the delivery and development of the service.2.17 To conduct exit assessments and provide clear exit pathways from the service.Administration3.1 To ensure accurate and timely case records are maintained inline with project procedures.3.2 Complete any necessary monitoring for the service to ensure outcomes are achieved and learning is gained.3.3 To comply with data protection legislation, confidentiality and information sharing policy and procedures and all legislation        connected to your work in order to uphold standards of best practice.3.4 Remain up-to-date and compliant with all relevant legislation connected to your work, including organisational         procedures, policies and professional codes of conduct and the IDVA Charter, in order to uphold standards of best        practice.3.5 Work within WAFE National Quality Standards/ SafeLives Leading Lights accreditation guidelines.Health and Safety4.1 Comply with and contribute to all aspects of health and safety and risk assessments within the service.4.2 To report any health and safety concerns immediately and take appropriate action to minimise any risks identified. 4.3 To help maintain the cleanliness and tidiness of PAC premises, ensuring the facilities are welcoming, inclusive and         accessible by all.Finance and Resources5.1 To ensure that PAC financial policies and procedures are adhered to.Human Resources6.1 Engage in case management, supervision, clinical supervision, performance appraisals, team meetings and away days.Positive Action in the CommunityRegistered Charity Number: 1088536 |  Company by Limited Guarantee: 04167948Registered in England and Wales, Hills House, Leeds Road, Nelson, BB9 8ELWorking with others7.1 To effectively communicate internally and externally on a daily basis by assisting people in a helpful and diplomaticmanner and        dealing with enquires appropriately.7.2 To work in a way which demonstrates respect for and understanding of the diverse need, circumstances, lifestyles andchoices of         service users.7.3 To respect and value the diversity of the community in which the services works in, and recognise the needs andconcerns of a        diverse range of survivors ensuring the service is accessible to all.7.4 To effectively liaise with and engage with other professionals as appropriate.7.5 To provide advocacy on behalf of service users, representing individual’s views where appropriate, and put forwardprofessional         views.7.6 To refer clients to other services to meet unmet needs that cannot be met by the service. 7.7 To promote the participation of service users in the delivery and development of the service, including regularly seekingservice        users feedback and views and responding positively and professionally to complaints, compliments and comments.7.8 To support other team members and volunteers in carrying out their duties effectively, including the effectivecommunication of            relevant information during handover and in line with PAC procedures.7.9 To support team members in their response to escalation of risk. Additional Requirements8.1 To work flexibly in order to meet the needs of the service.8.2 To undertake appropriate training and engage in development days. 8.3 To support and positively promote the charity’s ethos, activities, development and profile to service users and the wider        community, including assisting in the organisation and participation in publicity and fundraising events as required.8.4 To contribute effectively to all quality mark systems.8.5 To fully understand and comply with PACs safeguarding policies and procedures for child protection and the protection of         vulnerable adults.8.6 To provide support elsewhere in the service as presenting needs arise, as directed by your line manager.Note: In addition, other duties at the same responsibility level may be interchanged with/ added to this list at any time.Reviewed by: Jen Gore (Head of Services and Development), February 2026Approved by: Claire Bennett (CEO)Positive Action in the CommunityRegistered Charity Number: 1088536 |  Company by Limited Guarantee: 04167948Registered in England and Wales, Hills House, Leeds Road, Nelson, BB9 8ELPERSON SPECIFICATION Essential Criteria – Successful applicants must have: 9.1   Hold a SafeLives IDVA training certificate or be willing to undertake the relevant study to achieve this. 9.2  Direct service delivery experience of working with vulnerable families/people or those at risk. 9.3  A thorough understanding of domestic abuse including the impact of domestic abuse on victim-survivors and their          children. .4 A thorough understanding of the principles of risk assessment, safety planning and risk management for           victim-survivors of domestic abuse and their children. 9.5  Experience of Safelives/DASH/DARA risk and needs assessment frameworks. 9.6  Experience of effective crisis intervention and risk management, being able to deliver this using own initiative. 9.7  Experience of effective case management, managing a complex caseload, an ability to prioritise work and deal with          competing demands.  9.8   Have theoretical, practical and procedural knowledge of civil and criminal justice remedies for victim-survivors of            domestic abuse and their children. 9.9   To have experience of working in a multi-agency and legislative framework.9.10  Have excellent communication, negotiation and advisory skills, both written and verbal when interacting with a range          of agencies and individuals.  9.11 An understanding of confidentiality, equal opportunities, non-judgemental attitudes and be committed to these            principles. 9.12 An ability to be empathetic with service users and act with integrity and respect with all service users, agencies and           individuals. 9.13 Strong crisis management skills and the ability to deal with stressful and difficult situations. 9.14 A working knowledge of child protection and protecting vulnerable adults procedures and the legal responsibilities            surrounding these issues. 9.15 Ability to work sensitively in a diverse environment. 9.16 An ability to work as an effective team member. 9.17 To be computer literate and have the ability to maintain client records and monitoring information in a clear and           accurate manner; being confident in the use of Microsoft packages and case management software. 9.18 A full UK driving license and have use of a vehicle for work purposes. 9.19 Able to work flexibly and sometimes unsociable hours. 9.20 Possess/gain and maintain a satisfactory enhanced disclosure and barring service check.  Desirable Criteria – Applicants with these requirements are more likely to be successful. 10.1 Relevant qualification e.g. Health & Social Care, Social Work. 10.2 An awareness of existing Local and national services available for victims of domestic abuse. ENHANCED DBS REQUIREMENT  Equality, diversity and inclusion is about valuing differences and creating an environmentwhere everyone has an equal chance to live, learn and work, free from discrimination andprejudice and to be included. To this end, PAC and its projects wholeheartedly support theprinciples of equal opportunities in employment and service delivery and oppose all forms ofunlawful or unfair discrimination on the grounds of colour, race, gender, being transgender,appearance, age, disability, faith, ethnic or national origin, sexual orientation, marital status,maternal status, being pregnant, being married or in a civil partnership, or HIV status. PACrecognises that certain groups of people in society are denied equal opportunity and sufferdiscrimination. Therefore PAC is committed to developing an effective equal opportunitiespolicy and plan to provide equal treatment, equal access and equal benefits, and strives forgood practice in all its area of work including services to clients; in its practice as an employerand in the way it works with other organisations, both statutory and voluntary. PACrecognises that equal opportunities must be actively promoted, implemented and monitored,and that policies must be reviewed on a regular basis. We do not discriminate against staff orthose coming into contact with us via our services on the basis of age, disability, genderreassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, race, colour, nationality,ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation (protectedcharacteristics). Your attention is drawn to the fact that this post is covered under the Rehabilitation ofOffenders Act 1974 (Exemptions) Order 1975 and you should declare any convictions. Ifsuccessful at interview, an Enhanced Criminal Record Certificate will be sought from theCriminal Records Bureau before confirmation of appointment. It is suggested that you takeappropriate advice if you are in doubt as to the correct answer to give. Positive Action in the CommunityRegistered Charity Number: 1088536 |  Company by Limited Guarantee: 04167948Registered in England and Wales, Hills House, Leeds Road, Nelson, BB9 8ELEQUALITY, DIVERSITY & INCLUSION STATEMENTPositive Action in the CommunityRegistered Charity Number: 1088536 |  Company by Limited Guarantee: 04167948Registered in England and Wales, Hills House, Leeds Road, Nelson, BB9 8ELHOW TO APPLYFor more information about this role, you can make contact with us in the following ways:Email: recruitment@p-a-c.org.uk Call: 01282 227649If you would like to proceed in applying for the post please complete the application form thataccompanies this pack. Please do ensure that you complete all sections of the application includingthe monitoring information.Statement on the use of AI Please note, whilst we are aware of the true benefits and advancements of the use of AI, we ask thatan application is produced with your own words, reflecting your direct knowledge and experience. Wereserve the right to eliminate applications that we believe have not been directly produced by theapplicant. Thank you again for considering this role, we look forward to receiving yourapplication.