Position: MARAC IDVA (Independent Domestic Violence Advisor)

Salary: £26,505 (Unqualified) / £28,477 (Qualified) per annum

Hours: 35 per week

Contract type: Permanent

Location: Thanet & Dover

Closing date: Wednesday 1st May 2024

Interview date: w/c 7th May 2024

Background:

Oasis is a passionate and ambitious organisation committed to tackling the causes and consequences of domestic abuse on families. We are known in Kent & Medway for our dedicated, independent services that have been supporting the cause with a local focus for many years.

Overall:

We provide an efficient service for families affected by domestic violence and abuse across Kent & Medway. These families and individuals will have a range of needs, and our client support work is needs-led, risk-focused & trauma-informed with a focus on developing individual resilience. We work with clients in a range of settings. We provide group working and all support staff are expected to be capable of integrated working in the wider social system. Staff are expected to work flexibly as needed by service demands, this may include evenings and weekends. Staff are also expected to participate in the out of hours service, providing an on-call system for the refuge service users (for which enhancements are paid) where necessary.

Working with the mission of the organisation:

Frontline roles are the reason for the charities existence, and the holder of this post must have excellent team and communication skills (especially in working across the internal and external systems), must have a strong understanding of the dynamics of domestic violence and abuse, and must have excellent boundaries in working within the limits of the role and be committed to ensuring that Oasis service users have excellent support. This role requires a can-do attitude in helping service users to progress on their journeys, building new lives free from violence and abuse.

Competency:

Staff at Oasis have a commitment to and optimistic approach with the emotional support and development of their client group. They are reflective about their practice and able to use techniques to keep their work sound and safe for both them and the client.

The organisation utilises a competency framework to enable the development of competent and emotionally intelligent behaviors. All staff are expected to engage with personal learning through the use of this framework. A summary is attached at the end of this role description.

Purpose of the role:

The post will be part of the adult services (RAISE interventions), including a range of services aimed at creating a whole family approach to those experiencing domestic abuse living both in a refuge setting and in the community. As a team you will provide a wraparound approach, along with specialist/statutory services.

The team offer flexible support to recent victims of domestic abuse and their children through a needs-led, risk-focused approach.

The key purpose of an IDVA is to enhance the safety of individuals and children in their homes and communities whilst enabling service users to address their needs. The service aims to enable victims to discuss issues relating to their experiences freely and without judgement. They will be supported in whatever decisions they make and be assisted in accessing other agencies as appropriate to their individual circumstances and wishes.

Oasis’ IDVAs specialise as follows:

MARAC IDVA

MARAC IDVAs work to support and represent high risk clients through MARAC (Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conference). MARAC IDVAs work within a multi-agency partnership to ensure risk-led support of clients experiencing domestic abuse. They will conduct rigorous safety planning, enable the client to move forward in their recovery and ensure a coordinated community response to the client’s needs. MARAC IDVAs are the voice of clients during the MARAC process and must have the skills and capabilities to advocate with a range of partners and may include your attendance at the MARAC meeting.

Application Form

Job Description

Job Title: Access IDVA- (Independent Domestic Violence Adviser) Safe Accommodation
Grade: Point 5 (Unqualified) / Point 6 (Qualified)
Salary: £26,505 (Unqualified) / £28,477 (Qualified) per annum
Hours: 35
Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract 12 months.
Location: Medway
Responsible to: SIM Service Manager
Responsible for: All associated reporting data and case studies

Closing date: Wednesday 24th April 2024

Interview date: w/c 29th April

Background:

Oasis is a passionate and ambitious organisation committed to tackling the causes and
consequences of domestic abuse on families. We are known in Kent & Medway for our
dedicated, independent services that have been supporting the cause with a local focus for
many years.

Overall:
We provide an efficient service for families affected by domestic violence and abuse across
Kent & Medway. These families and individuals will have a range of needs, and our client
support work is needs-led, risk-focused & trauma-informed with a focus on developing
individual resilience. We work with clients in a range of settings. We provide group working
and all support staff are expected to be capable of integrated working in the wider social
system. Staff are expected to work flexibly as needed by service demands, this may include
evenings and weekends. Where necessary staff are also expected to participate in the out of
hours service, providing an on-call system for the refuge service users (for which enhancements are paid)

Working with the mission of the organisation:
Frontline roles are the reason for the charities existence, and the holder of this post must
have excellent team and communication skills (especially in working across the internal and
external systems), must have a strong understanding of the dynamics of domestic violence
and abuse, and must have excellent boundaries in working within the limits of the role and
be committed to ensuring that Oasis service users have excellent support. This role requires
a can-do attitude helping service users to progress on their journeys, building new lives free
from violence and abuse.

Competency:
Staff at Oasis have a commitment to and optimistic approach with the emotional support
and development of their client group. They are reflective about their practice and able to
use techniques to keep their work sound and safe for both them and the client.
The organisation utilises a competency framework to enable the development of competent
and emotionally intelligent behaviors. All staff are expected to engage in personal learning
using this framework. A summary is attached at the end of this role description.

Purpose of the role:
The post will be part of Oasis frontline services, including a range of services aimed at
creating a whole family approach to those experiencing domestic abuse living in the
community. As a team you will provide a wraparound approach, along with
specialist/statutory services. The team offers flexible support to recent victims of domestic
abuse through a strengths and needs-led, risk-focused approach.
The key purpose of an IDVA is to enhance the safety of individuals and children in their
homes, communities and, where the service demands, Oasis accommodation, whilst
enabling service users to address their needs. The service aims to enable victims to discuss
issues relating to their experiences freely and without judgement. They will be supported in
whatever decisions they make and be assisted in accessing other agencies as appropriate to
their individual circumstances and wishes.

MARAC IDVA:

MARAC IDVAs work to support and represent high risk clients through MARAC (Multi
Agency Risk Assessment Conference). They work within a multi-agency partnership to
ensure risk-led support of clients experiencing domestic abuse. They will conduct rigorous
safety planning, enable the client to move forward in their recovery and ensure a
coordinated community response to the client’s needs. Access IDVAs are the voice of clients
during the MARAC process and must have the skills and capabilities to advocate with a range
of partners and will include your attendance at the MARAC meeting.
MARAC IDVAs also create support plans that will include, but is not limited to, safety
planning, housing, legal and financial matters, which are tailored to meet their clients' needs.
They should have a good understanding of trauma-informed practice and be able to offer
services that meet the needs of people with a range of needs.

ADDITIONAL ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES:
Within the MARAC IDVA role circumstances and funding can require the MARAC IDVA to
have additional responsibilities and therefore require an additional set of skills and
knowledge. The job title will dictate the additional role requirements.

MARAC ACCESS IDVA:
This is a MARAC IDVA who will also have an accessibility focus. supporting those who are
assessed at all risk levels in the local community This involves assertive engagement and
intervention that creates opportunities for those who may be deemed to have ‘complex
needs’ to be involved with the service.
The post holder will be aware of Intersectionality and how it affects our clients.
Intersectionality’s range from Equality & Diversity through to substance misuse and
disabilities. This role will include proactively working with local services to support clients,
identifying client’s barriers to engagement, and having a ‘Hands-On’ approach to ensure
clients receive the correct support to meet their particular needs and priorities.

MARAC ACCESS IDVA - SAFE ACCOMMODATION:
In addition to the MARAC access IDVA role, this role will support clients who present with a
housing need, therefore requiring knowledge of housing legislation and both statutory and
non-statutory responses to homelessness.

YP IDVA:
This is a MARAC IDVA that works with those aged between 16 and 24, with a more flexible
approach to actively engaging young people who may otherwise struggle to build rapport
with professionals. The YP IDVA can accommodate for this by ensuring that they are led by
what the client wants to achieve; how they want to receive support; and through more
innovative methods of communication. The YP IDVA can work closely with family, friends,
carers, and other trusted adults around the young person in order to improve the safety of
those they support.

HIDVA:
The HIDVA will provide specialist, high-quality support and advice to staff members and
patients who have disclosed domestic abuse, (DA), within the hospital setting. This will be
those who present to the Accident and Emergency (A&E) department either with injuries
caused by DA or who disclose DA when receiving care. You will also accept referrals either
directly from other wards and departments, including maternity, or via the hospital's
safeguarding team. This role will require liaison with NHS staff and other multi agency
partners with the aim of reducing further harm to staff members, patients (and their
children), while in the hospital environment, at the point of discharge and when necessary,
within their community.
In addition to this direct support, the health IDVA will be required to work alongside the
safeguarding team to provide training to hospital staff to ensure that they are equipped to
notice the signs of domestic abuse, enquire safety to establish the safety needs of the patient
and refer on for support.
The role involves working in highly skilled and pressured environments and will require the
post holder to have strong resilience both emotionally and practically, as well as to be a
qualified and experienced IDVA. You will be expected to work flexibly as needed by service
demands; this may include evenings and weekends.

Key Responsibilities:
1. To manage a caseload; focusing on High and extreme risk victims to provide a
proactive short to medium term service based on Safe lives care pathways.
2. To assess incoming referrals and identify the best support agreement for their needs
in accordance with the RAISE support framework toolkit, including specific response
times.
3. To contact service users, providing and seeking information with a professional
approach via telephone, online and in person.
4. To provide on-going assessment and review of a trauma-informed SMART support
and safety plan. This will include a holistic, ongoing view of the multiple needs of
the individual.
5. To provide support, information, advocacy and signposting, including relationship
breakdown, substance misuse, mental health, safety planning, housing options,
welfare & benefits, civil and criminal legal issues, immigration, budgeting, paying
bills, addressing debt, tenancy sustainment, education, training, employment and
access to other agencies, by telephone, online or in person in a mutually agreed safe
place.
6. To enable service users to develop the skills and resources necessary to move on
and maintain independence and self-reliance.
7. To provide emotional support, using solution-focused practice and ways to
wellbeing.
8. To identify and risk assess complex multiple needs such as substance misuse and
mental health.
9. To follow Risk Assessment and Safety Planning processes as detailed in the RAISE
toolkit, including the DASH checklist.
10. Liaise with the IDVA attending MARAC to ensure that clients are appropriately
represented.
11. Manage the safeguarding of vulnerable adults and children in line with
organisational policy, in discussion with a Senior/Manager and with open
communication with Children and Families and Adult Services.
12. Risk assess and safety plan with service users and deliver service in keeping with the
result.
13. Support the empowerment of the client and assist them in recognising the dynamics
of domestic/sexual violence.
14. Develop individual safety and support plans to meet individual risks and support
needs that clients face, regularly review cases ensuring that all agencies are meeting
the needs of clients. Ensure effective liaison with agencies regarding case
management.
15. Refer appropriate clients to MARAC, explaining procedures and rights within the
MARAC process to the client and, keeping clients’ safety central to all coordinated
responses, ensure all safeguarding referrals are made.
16. To represent the clients’ safety needs and wishes, at MARAC, ensuring they are
appropriately represented, either personally or via a formal handover to the
attending IDVA. Complete any actions relating to your client as agreed at the MARAC
meeting.
17. To work within the terms of the MARAC and Court Protocols.
18. To support clients through the criminal justice system, explaining the procedures
and their roles and rights within the court process, ensuring that, whenever possible,
clients have realistic expectations of the criminal justice system.
19. To liaise with the CPS, Witness Care Unit, police and other partner agencies to ensure
that the clients’ safety needs are considered within the judicial process.
20. To facilitate group work.
21. Provide direct support to Police, primary care services, housing departments, adult
and children’s social services in the provision and coordination of support
developing strong relationships with these and other partners to improve the
outcomes for clients.
22. Provide coverage at One Stop shops, drop-ins and helplines as required.
23. To participate in co located working with partner agencies, such as police, social
services, housing, and any other places where attendance is beneficial to the client
group.
24. To attend any multi agency meetings or forums as required
25. To participate in awareness raising and training to partner agencies and the public
as requested
26. To ensure that caseload is regularly reviewed, actions recorded and undertaken, and
cases transferred or closed following case review.
27. To hold a caseload efficiently and effectively.to ensure that regular opportunities are
given for service users to feedback on the service.
28. To maintain thorough, confidential, and up-to-date service user records and case
management notes using a client database.
29. Managing a caseload based on Safe Lives care pathway.
30. To engage with all impact analysis and story gathering for organisational learning.
31. To remain up-to-date and compliant with all organisational policies and procedures
and professional codes of conduct to uphold standards of best practice.
32. Participate in an on-call system for out-of-hours emergencies for accommodation
clients.
33. To perform other reasonable tasks as identified by the organisation.
34. To engage positively with the clinical supervision process.

Additional responsibilities for MARAC IDVA role specialisms

MARAC ACCESS IDVA:
1. Supporting the development of the referral and assessment pathway for those who
struggle to access services.
2. To advocate on behalf of our most vulnerable clients to enhance accessibility to both
internal and external services.
3. Where engagement requires, to provide support in a location that meets the needs
of the client, ensuring that the lone working policy is adhered to, and the location is
mutually agreed to be safe.
4. Working face to face is integral to this service provision and may often be in the form
of joint visits with other providers.
5. Initiating, attending, and developing additional drop ins and other services to support
vulnerable service users.
6. Identifying awareness raising and primary prevention opportunities in the
community. This will include regular visits to community groups and other services
to aid the development of close multi-agency support and referral systems. Complete
additional monitoring information for the service as required and support and
engage with all impact analysis and story gathering for organisational learning.
7. Complete additional monitoring information for the service as required and support
and engage with all impact analysis and story gathering for organisational reporting
and learning.

MARAC ACCESS IDVA - SAFE ACCOMMODATION:
1. In addition to the MARAC Access IDVA role, to support clients to be able to safely
remain in their accommodation or access appropriate alternative accommodation.
2. Complete additional monitoring information for the service as required and support
and engage with all impact analysis and story gathering for organisational reporting
and learning.

YPIDVA:
1. To support the development of the referral and assessment pathway for those aged
between 16 and 24.
2. To use a range of techniques and resources to engage young people in a program
of support.
3. Using evidence-based models, provide motivating support on a client led basis,
with the aim of enhancing safety and enabling change.
4. To identify the local agencies, professionals and forums which would need to be
involved in identifying the cases of young people experiencing serious harm from
interpersonal violence and abuse and ensure that they are linked into the Oasis and
MARAC referral pathway.
5. To build good relationships and partnership working between practitioners in
children’s safeguarding services, the domestic abuse arena, youth offending and
MARAC.
6. To enhance the partnership working with local specialist agencies, developed by the
RAISE young people’s team, for advice and direct support for the young person.
Particularly around issues of sexual exploitation, gang involvement, cyber stalking,
Prevent and HBV/forced marriage.
7. To attend schools, colleges, the local university campus, and young people’s
recreational and support groups to promote understanding of interpersonal
violence and abuse and to encourage young people to self-refer or for their families
and friends to request referral.
8. To provide training externally
9. To engage in training internally to develop skills in using the organisation’s
theoretical models.
10. Complete additional monitoring information for the service as required and support
and engage with all impact analysis and story gathering for organisational reporting
and learning.

HIDVA:
1. Identify and assess the risks and needs of DA victims (and their children) within the
hospital setting and provide crisis-led immediate support.
2. To support clients whilst they are in hospital and/or accessing hospital services,
ensuring each client receives the appropriate support relevant to their needs, while
keeping their safety central to the response.
3. To respond to referrals, either direct referrals from the hospital or via the service
manager, within the required time limit relative to their risk.
4. Ensure effective continuity of service for those being transferred into communitybased services and that clear communication is provided to the client and community
provider so that expectations are managed, and the transfer is seamless.
5. Establish close working relationships within the hospital, primarily though not
exclusively, with the Emergency and Maternity Departments and the Trust’s
Safeguarding Specialists.
6. Delivering training and awareness-raising sessions for staff on DA and role of the
health IDVA.
7. Understand multi-agency partnership structures and work within a multi-agency
setting to help design interventions and develop plans to protect victims, and any
children, while maintaining an independent role on behalf of the client.
8. Complete additional monitoring information for the service as required and support
and engage with all impact analysis and story gathering for organisational learning.

Review arrangements:
The details contained in the role specification reflect the content of the job at the date the
document was prepared. It should be remembered, however, that it is inevitable that over
time the nature of individual jobs will change; existing duties may be lost, and other duties
may be gained without changing the general character of the duties or the level of
responsibility entailed. Consequently, we will expect to revise this role specification from
time to time and will consult with the post holder at the appropriate time.

Oasis Domestic Abuse Service is committed to safeguarding and promoting the
welfare of children; applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening
appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and
Barring Service

Job Description

Application Form

Job Title: Outreach DA Support Worker
Grade: Point 4.5
Salary: £25,000 per annum
Hours: 35
Contract Type: Permanent
Location: Thanet and Dover
Responsible to: Community Team Service Manager
Responsible for: All associated reporting data and case studies

Closing date: Tuesday 7th May 2024

Interview date: w/c 13th May 2024

Background:

Oasis is a passionate and ambitious organisation committed to tackling the causes and consequences of domestic abuse on families. We are known in Kent & Medway for our dedicated, independent services that have been supporting the cause with a local focus for many years.

Overall:

We provide an efficient service for families affected by domestic violence and abuse across Kent & Medway. These families and individuals will have a range of needs, and our client support work is needs-led, risk-focused & trauma-informed with a focus on developing individual resilience. We work with clients in a range of settings. We provide group working and all support colleagues are expected to be capable of integrated working in the wider social system. Colleagues are expected to work flexibly as needed by service demands, this may include evenings and weekends. Where necessary colleagues are also expected to participate in the out-of-hours service, providing an on-call system for the refuge service users (for which enhancements are paid)

Working with the mission of the organisation:

Frontline roles are the reason for the charity's existence, and the holder of this post must have excellent team and communication skills (especially in working across the internal and external systems), must have a strong understanding of the dynamics of domestic violence and abuse, and must have excellent boundaries in working within the limits of the role and be committed to ensuring that Oasis service users have excellent support. This role requires a can-do attitude helping service users to progress on their journeys, building new lives free from violence and abuse.

Competency:

Colleagues at Oasis have a commitment to and optimistic approach with the emotional support and development of their client group. They are reflective about their practice and able to use techniques to keep their work sound and safe for both them and the client.

The organisation utilises a competency framework to enable the development of competent and emotionally intelligent behaviors. All colleagues are expected to engage with personal learning through the use of this framework. A summary is attached at the end of this role description.

Purpose of the role:

The post will be part of Oasis frontline services, including a range of services aimed at creating a whole family approach to those experiencing domestic abuse living in the community and as the role dictates, in Oasis accommodation. As a team you will provide a wraparound approach, along with specialist/statutory services. The team offers flexible support to recent victims of domestic abuse through a strengths and needs-led, risk-focused approach.

The key purpose of the Community team, communities, and Oasis accommodation, while enabling service users to address their needs. The service aims to enable victims to discuss issues relating to their experiences freely and without judgement. They will be supported in whatever decisions they make and be assisted in accessing other agencies as appropriate to their circumstances and wishes.

Community DA support worker:

 The community team's work is focused on supporting those living in the community and working with those at medium risk, utilizing a coordinated community response. Following a full needs assessment, they will create support plans that will include, but are not limited to considering risk, safety planning, housing, legal, and financial matters, which are tailored to meet their clients' needs.

Additional Role Responsibilities:

Within the Community DA support worker role circumstances and funding can require the role to have additional responsibilities and therefore require an additional set of skills and knowledge. The job title will dictate the additional role requirements.

Community and accommodation DA support worker:

This dual-purpose role covers both the Community DA support worker role and the direct support of those living in Oasis accommodation.  They are the voice of clients throughout their journey within the accommodation, creating individually tailored interventions to meet their practical and emotional needs. This role requires the skills and capabilities to advocate with a range of multi-agency partners, particularly housing and children’s specialist services, and the patience and understanding of mental health and trauma to manage any negative coping strategies of our residents.

Access Accommodation IDVA:

This is a Community and Accommodation DA support worker with an accessibility focus. This specialist support involves assertive engagement and intervention that creates opportunities for those who may be deemed to have ‘complex needs’ to be housed within the service. An Access IDVA should have a good understanding of trauma-informed practice and be able to offer services that meet the needs of people with a range of additional needs. This will involve excellent multi-agency working and relationship building.

Key Responsibilities:

1. To manage a caseload; focusing on medium-risk victims to provide a proactive short to medium-term service based on the RAISE policies and procedures
2. To assess incoming referrals and identify the best support agreement for their needs following the RAISE support framework toolkit, including specific response
3. To contact service users, providing and seeking information with a professional approach via telephone, online, and in person.
4. To provide ongoing assessment and review of a trauma-informed SMART support and safety plan. This will include a holistic, ongoing view of the multiple needs of the individual.
5. To provide support, information, advocacy, and signposting, including relationship breakdown, substance misuse, mental health, safety planning, housing options, welfare & benefits, civil and criminal legal issues, immigration, budgeting, paying bills, addressing debt, tenancy sustainment, education, training, employment and access to other agencies, by telephone, online or in person in a mutually agreed safe
6. To enable service users to develop the skills and resources necessary to move on and maintain independence and self-reliance.
7. To provide emotional support, using solution-focused practice and ways to
8. To identify and risk assess complex multiple needs such as substance misuse and mental
9. To follow Risk Assessment and Safety Planning processes as detailed in the RAISE toolkit, including the DASH
10. Manage the safeguarding of vulnerable adults and children in line with organisational policy, in discussion with a Senior/Manager, and with open communication with Children and Families and Adult Services.
11. Risk assessment and safety plan with service users and deliver service in keeping with the
12. Support the empowerment of the client and assist them in recognising the dynamics of domestic/sexual violence.
13. Develop individual safety and support plans to meet individual risks and support needs that clients face, regularly review cases ensuring that all agencies are meeting the needs of clients. Ensure effective liaison with agencies regarding case management.
14. Refer appropriate clients to MARAC, explaining procedures and rights within the MARAC process to the client and, keeping clients’ safety central to all coordinated responses, ensure all safeguarding referrals are made.
15. Where required, work alongside the MARAC team to support High-risk clients within accommodation settings.
16. To refer to High-risk clients to MARAC using the RAISE team protocols.
17. To support clients within the criminal justice system.
18. To support clients through the criminal justice system, explaining the procedures and their roles and rights within the court process, and ensuring that, whenever possible, clients have realistic expectations of the criminal justice system.
19. To liaise with the CPS, Witness Care Unit, police, and other partner agencies to ensure that the client's safety needs are considered within the judicial process
20. To facilitate group work.
21. Provide direct support to Police, primary care services, housing departments, and adult and children’s social services in the provision and coordination of support developing strong relationships with these and other partners to improve the outcomes for clients.
22. Provide coverage at One Stop shops, drop-ins and helplines as required.
23. Where engagement requires, to provide support in a location that meets the needs of the client, ensuring that the lone working policy is adhered to and the location is mutually agreed to be safe
24. To participate in co-located working with partner agencies, such as police, social services, housing, and any other places where attendance is beneficial to the client group.
25. To attend any multi-agency meetings or forums as required
26. To participate in awareness raising and training to partner agencies and the general public as requested
27. To ensure that caseload is regularly reviewed, actions recorded and undertaken, and cases transferred or closed following case review.
28. To hold a caseload efficiently and
29. To ensure that regular opportunities are given for service users to feedback on the
30. To maintain thorough, confidential, and up-to-date service user records and case management notes using a client database.
31. To engage with all impact analysis and story gathering for organisational
32. To remain up-to-date and compliant with all organisational policies and procedures and professional codes of conduct to uphold standards of best practice.
33. Participate in an on-call system for out-of-hours emergencies for accommodation clients.
34. To perform other reasonable tasks as identified by the
35. To engage positively with the clinical supervision

 Additional Responsibilities (Community and Accommodation DA support worker role):

1. To manage the day-to-day running of the accommodation, including undertaking health and safety and fire checks and assessments, and ensuring compliance with relevant health and safety legislation.
2. Manage the dynamic relationships with the household, including any resident and neighbour disputes and complaints,
3. Encourage participation in service user consultation and involvement with the organisation.
4. To make applications to appropriate funders and charitable organisations for appropriate individual grants for those leaving the accommodation.
5. Chairing regular House meetings.
6. Managing the daily safety and security of the accommodation.
7. To support clients to fulfill their potential throughout their journey in accommodation.
8. Provide 12 weeks of resettlement support to those who have moved on from refuge into settled accommodation.

 Additional Responsibilities (Access Accommodation DA support worker role):   

1. Supporting the development of the referral and assessment pathway for those who

struggle to access services.

2. Working face-to-face is integral to this service provision and may often be in the form of

joint visits with other providers.

3. Advocate on behalf of our most vulnerable client group to ensure that their voice is heard, their needs are met and they are treated with the respect and dignity they rightfully deserve.
4. Initiating, attending, and developing drop-ins and other services to support complex service users both, within the accommodation and in the community.
5. Attending local forums and meetings that consider our most vulnerable client groups and developing strong networking opportunities with attendees.
6. Identifying awareness-raising and primary prevention opportunities in the community.

This will include regular visits to community groups and other agencies to aid the

development of close multi-agency referral systems

7. Complete additional monitoring information for the service as required and support and engage with all impact analysis and story gathering for organisational reporting and learning

Review arrangements:

The details contained in the role specification reflect the content of the job at the date the document was prepared. It should be remembered, however, that it is inevitable that over time the nature of individual jobs will change; existing duties may be lost and other duties may be gained without changing the general character of the duties or the level of responsibility entailed. Consequently, we will expect to revise this role specification from time to time and will consult with the post holder at the appropriate time.

Oasis Domestic Abuse Service is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children; applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Job Description

Application Form

Job Title: Outreach DA Support Worker
Grade: Point 4.5
Salary: £25,000 per annum
Hours: 35
Contract Type: 18 Month FTC
Location: Thanet and Dover
Responsible to: Community Team Service Manager
Responsible for: All associated reporting data and case studies

Closing date: Tuesday 7th May 2024

Interview date: w/c 13th May 2024

Background:

Oasis is a passionate and ambitious organisation committed to tackling the causes and consequences of domestic abuse on families. We are known in Kent & Medway for our dedicated, independent services that have been supporting the cause with a local focus for many years.

Overall:

We provide an efficient service for families affected by domestic violence and abuse across Kent & Medway. These families and individuals will have a range of needs, and our client support work is needs-led, risk-focused & trauma-informed with a focus on developing individual resilience. We work with clients in a range of settings. We provide group working and all support colleagues are expected to be capable of integrated working in the wider social system. Colleagues are expected to work flexibly as needed by service demands, this may include evenings and weekends. Where necessary colleagues are also expected to participate in the out-of-hours service, providing an on-call system for the refuge service users (for which enhancements are paid)

Working with the mission of the organisation:

Frontline roles are the reason for the charity's existence, and the holder of this post must have excellent team and communication skills (especially in working across the internal and external systems), must have a strong understanding of the dynamics of domestic violence and abuse, and must have excellent boundaries in working within the limits of the role and be committed to ensuring that Oasis service users have excellent support. This role requires a can-do attitude helping service users to progress on their journeys, building new lives free from violence and abuse.

Competency:

Colleagues at Oasis have a commitment to and optimistic approach with the emotional support and development of their client group. They are reflective about their practice and able to use techniques to keep their work sound and safe for both them and the client.

The organisation utilises a competency framework to enable the development of competent and emotionally intelligent behaviors. All colleagues are expected to engage with personal learning through the use of this framework. A summary is attached at the end of this role description.

Purpose of the role:

The post will be part of Oasis frontline services, including a range of services aimed at creating a whole family approach to those experiencing domestic abuse living in the community and as the role dictates, in Oasis accommodation. As a team you will provide a wraparound approach, along with specialist/statutory services. The team offers flexible support to recent victims of domestic abuse through a strengths and needs-led, risk-focused approach.

The key purpose of the Community team, communities, and Oasis accommodation, while enabling service users to address their needs. The service aims to enable victims to discuss issues relating to their experiences freely and without judgement. They will be supported in whatever decisions they make and be assisted in accessing other agencies as appropriate to their circumstances and wishes.

Community DA support worker:

 The community team's work is focused on supporting those living in the community and working with those at medium risk, utilizing a coordinated community response. Following a full needs assessment, they will create support plans that will include, but are not limited to considering risk, safety planning, housing, legal, and financial matters, which are tailored to meet their clients' needs.

Additional Role Responsibilities:

Within the Community DA support worker role circumstances and funding can require the role to have additional responsibilities and therefore require an additional set of skills and knowledge. The job title will dictate the additional role requirements.

Community and accommodation DA support worker:

This dual-purpose role covers both the Community DA support worker role and the direct support of those living in Oasis accommodation.  They are the voice of clients throughout their journey within the accommodation, creating individually tailored interventions to meet their practical and emotional needs. This role requires the skills and capabilities to advocate with a range of multi-agency partners, particularly housing and children’s specialist services, and the patience and understanding of mental health and trauma to manage any negative coping strategies of our residents.

Access Accommodation IDVA:

This is a Community and Accommodation DA support worker with an accessibility focus. This specialist support involves assertive engagement and intervention that creates opportunities for those who may be deemed to have ‘complex needs’ to be housed within the service. An Access IDVA should have a good understanding of trauma-informed practice and be able to offer services that meet the needs of people with a range of additional needs. This will involve excellent multi-agency working and relationship building.

Key Responsibilities:

1. To manage a caseload; focusing on medium-risk victims to provide a proactive short to medium-term service based on the RAISE policies and procedures
2. To assess incoming referrals and identify the best support agreement for their needs following the RAISE support framework toolkit, including specific response
3. To contact service users, providing and seeking information with a professional approach via telephone, online, and in person.
4. To provide ongoing assessment and review of a trauma-informed SMART support and safety plan. This will include a holistic, ongoing view of the multiple needs of the individual.
5. To provide support, information, advocacy, and signposting, including relationship breakdown, substance misuse, mental health, safety planning, housing options, welfare & benefits, civil and criminal legal issues, immigration, budgeting, paying bills, addressing debt, tenancy sustainment, education, training, employment and access to other agencies, by telephone, online or in person in a mutually agreed safe
6. To enable service users to develop the skills and resources necessary to move on and maintain independence and self-reliance.
7. To provide emotional support, using solution-focused practice and ways to
8. To identify and risk assess complex multiple needs such as substance misuse and mental
9. To follow Risk Assessment and Safety Planning processes as detailed in the RAISE toolkit, including the DASH
10. Manage the safeguarding of vulnerable adults and children in line with organisational policy, in discussion with a Senior/Manager, and with open communication with Children and Families and Adult Services.
11. Risk assessment and safety plan with service users and deliver service in keeping with the
12. Support the empowerment of the client and assist them in recognising the dynamics of domestic/sexual violence.
13. Develop individual safety and support plans to meet individual risks and support needs that clients face, regularly review cases ensuring that all agencies are meeting the needs of clients. Ensure effective liaison with agencies regarding case management.
14. Refer appropriate clients to MARAC, explaining procedures and rights within the MARAC process to the client and, keeping clients’ safety central to all coordinated responses, ensure all safeguarding referrals are made.
15. Where required, work alongside the MARAC team to support High-risk clients within accommodation settings.
16. To refer to High-risk clients to MARAC using the RAISE team protocols.
17. To support clients within the criminal justice system.
18. To support clients through the criminal justice system, explaining the procedures and their roles and rights within the court process, and ensuring that, whenever possible, clients have realistic expectations of the criminal justice system.
19. To liaise with the CPS, Witness Care Unit, police, and other partner agencies to ensure that the client's safety needs are considered within the judicial process
20. To facilitate group work.
21. Provide direct support to Police, primary care services, housing departments, and adult and children’s social services in the provision and coordination of support developing strong relationships with these and other partners to improve the outcomes for clients.
22. Provide coverage at One Stop shops, drop-ins and helplines as required.
23. Where engagement requires, to provide support in a location that meets the needs of the client, ensuring that the lone working policy is adhered to and the location is mutually agreed to be safe
24. To participate in co-located working with partner agencies, such as police, social services, housing, and any other places where attendance is beneficial to the client group.
25. To attend any multi-agency meetings or forums as required
26. To participate in awareness raising and training to partner agencies and the general public as requested
27. To ensure that caseload is regularly reviewed, actions recorded and undertaken, and cases transferred or closed following case review.
28. To hold a caseload efficiently and
29. To ensure that regular opportunities are given for service users to feedback on the
30. To maintain thorough, confidential, and up-to-date service user records and case management notes using a client database.
31. To engage with all impact analysis and story gathering for organisational
32. To remain up-to-date and compliant with all organisational policies and procedures and professional codes of conduct to uphold standards of best practice.
33. Participate in an on-call system for out-of-hours emergencies for accommodation clients.
34. To perform other reasonable tasks as identified by the
35. To engage positively with the clinical supervision

 Additional Responsibilities (Community and Accommodation DA support worker role):

1. To manage the day-to-day running of the accommodation, including undertaking health and safety and fire checks and assessments, and ensuring compliance with relevant health and safety legislation.
2. Manage the dynamic relationships with the household, including any resident and neighbour disputes and complaints,
3. Encourage participation in service user consultation and involvement with the organisation.
4. To make applications to appropriate funders and charitable organisations for appropriate individual grants for those leaving the accommodation.
5. Chairing regular House meetings.
6. Managing the daily safety and security of the accommodation.
7. To support clients to fulfill their potential throughout their journey in accommodation.
8. Provide 12 weeks of resettlement support to those who have moved on from refuge into settled accommodation.

 Additional Responsibilities (Access Accommodation DA support worker role):   

1. Supporting the development of the referral and assessment pathway for those who

struggle to access services.

2. Working face-to-face is integral to this service provision and may often be in the form of

joint visits with other providers.

3. Advocate on behalf of our most vulnerable client group to ensure that their voice is heard, their needs are met and they are treated with the respect and dignity they rightfully deserve.
4. Initiating, attending, and developing drop-ins and other services to support complex service users both, within the accommodation and in the community.
5. Attending local forums and meetings that consider our most vulnerable client groups and developing strong networking opportunities with attendees.
6. Identifying awareness-raising and primary prevention opportunities in the community.

This will include regular visits to community groups and other agencies to aid the

development of close multi-agency referral systems

7. Complete additional monitoring information for the service as required and support and engage with all impact analysis and story gathering for organisational reporting and learning

Review arrangements:

The details contained in the role specification reflect the content of the job at the date the document was prepared. It should be remembered, however, that it is inevitable that over time the nature of individual jobs will change; existing duties may be lost and other duties may be gained without changing the general character of the duties or the level of responsibility entailed. Consequently, we will expect to revise this role specification from time to time and will consult with the post holder at the appropriate time.

Oasis Domestic Abuse Service is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children; applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Job Description

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