Main Duties of a DA Advisor:

*Please note that a DA Advisor’s role can encompass any or all of the following*

Service to Clients:
• Provide a pro-active support service to victims of domestic abuse (DA) aiming to keep them and their children safe
• Maintain the confidentiality of the service at all times in accordance with DAVSS policy
• Risk assess to national standards using the DASH toolkit and deliver services in keeping with the result
• Refer High Risk clients to Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conferences (MARACs)
• Participate in the MARAC framework: making client referrals, attending and participating in meetings, and following up on actions agreed at MARAC
• Carry out safety planning with clients to secure practical safety measures
• Explain housing, civil and criminal law, and other options to clients
• Develop individual service plans to meet the individual risks clients face
• Support clients to get the services to which they are entitled
• Understand the legal framework relating to the protection of children
• Support clients through the Civil and Criminal Justice Systems, explaining the procedures and their role and rights within that system
• Refer on and arrange meetings with other agencies/services as necessary, for instance, solicitors, benefit agencies, counselling services etc.
• Help clients develop their own support network

Helpline:

• Staff the helpline on a rota agreed with the Managers
• Maintain the confidentiality of the service at all times in accordance with DAVSS policy
• Log new referrals, give initial safety advice and bring to the attention of the manager for allocation if case work is necessary.
• Provide ongoing support for existing clients

Case Work:

• Manage a caseload agreed with the managers
• Maintain and update records in accordance with DAVSS systems and general admin
• Advocate for the client’s interests when liaising with and referring to partner agencies
• Keep relevant agencies informed about important changes in a client’s situation where appropriate

Person Specification:
• Pro-active
• Sympathetic and calm
• Non-judgmental listening
• Commitment to the confidential nature of the work
• Good communication skills: both written and verbal
• Computer literate
• Ability and willingness to work as part of a team and in partnership with other agencies
• Awareness of the impact of DA on victims and children (accredited training will be provided)
• Willingness to undertake the accredited training programme and commit to ongoing personal development.
• Willingness to undertake a DBS disclosure check and Kent Police Vetting (this will be arranged by DAVSS)
• Access to a car for meetings with clients and agency meetings is desirable but not essential.

What support will I get?

- Mentoring
- Ongoing training and personal development
- Clinical Supervision
- Supportive team environment