Independent Sexual Violence Advisor - Full Time

Family Matters (FM) is a dedicated independent charity supporting individuals affected by sexual crime in Kent. We are seeking a committed and compassionate Independent Sexual Violence Advisor to join our team in East Kent.

Key Responsibilities

• Client Support: Provide proactive support to adults who have experienced sexual violence, both within and outside the criminal justice system.
• Risk Assessment: Conduct thorough risk assessments to ensure the safety and well-being of clients.
• Rights and Access: Assist clients in accessing their legal rights, health services, and other necessary support services.
• Case Management: Monitor and inform clients of case progress, offering continuous support through the criminal justice process.
• Community Engagement: Attend relevant meetings, deliver talks and presentations to local groups, and develop networks and partnerships to enhance the visibility and role of Family Matters in the community.
• Reporting: Prepare regular reports for line managers and external funders, ensuring thorough monitoring, evaluation, and administration of project outcomes.
• Outreach Work: Conduct extensive outreach work to support clients across East Kent, requiring regular travel.

Essential Qualifications and Skills

• ISVA Qualification: Possess an accredited ISVA qualification or a willingness to undertake the training.
• Experience: Demonstrated experience in planning and managing caseloads, with strong crisis management skills.
• Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of the needs of victims of sexual violence, especially adults, and sound knowledge of the Criminal Justice System.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to quickly build rapport and provide emotional support to clients.
• IT Proficiency: Good IT skills and familiarity with office management systems and procedures.
• Interpersonal Skills: Strong interpersonal skills with an empathetic, non-judgemental, and compassionate approach.
• Time Management: Exceptional time management skills and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
• Team Collaboration: Ability to work collaboratively with a positive outlook and strong work ethic.
• Resilience: Self-awareness and emotional resilience to handle sensitive situations.

Additional Requirements

• Transportation: A vehicle is essential for this role due to the necessity of travel for outreach work.
• Safeguarding: Commitment to safeguarding children and adults at risk, adhering to FM’s safeguarding policies and procedures.
• DBS Check: All staff members are required to undertake enhanced DBS checks.

Personal Attributes

• Empathetic, non-judgemental, and compassionate attitude
• Proven experience working with gangs, children, and young people
• Strong report writing skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality, data protection, safeguarding, and appropriate boundaries

Family Matters is dedicated to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for all employees. We encourage applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds who share our commitment to supporting victims of sexual violence.

If you are passionate about making a difference and have the necessary qualifications and experience, we would love to hear from you. Apply now to join our dedicated team and help us support those in need.