Overall Aim
To provide high quality support to women and men experiencing domestic violence whilst living in the community. To be responsible for implementing a range of interventions and support measures as part of an integrated package of health, therapeutic and social support to survivors experiencing DVA. To work in partnership with local and national services to improve and achieve best outcomes for the women. To deliver support services for Housing for Women within the standards and contract assessment and monitoring framework set out by our Commissioners and funders.
Key Responsibilities
Responsible for the delivery of high quality services , ensuring effective reporting to the Manager as appropriate
Responsible for effective risk management
Responsible for, high standards of customer care.
To act in accordance with the values and aims of Housing for Women
To promote and implement Housing for Women’s policies and procedures
Customer Focus
Provide a trauma informed support service to a caseload of women and men in the community who have experienced domestic abuse with complex needs, including those who are high risk referred through MARAC
Empower service users to take an active lead in their support, work in partnership to assess needs, develop appropriate methods and techniques to enable them to express their views and inform decisions
Work innovatively and creatively in order to engage hard to reach, chaotic and complex needs service users
Develop and monitor outsome focused individual support plans with the service user
Plan and facilitate sessions which explore understanding of DVA, support life skills, healthy lifestyles and support social interaction
Support the service user in minimising risk by undertaking formal risk assessments, developing safety plans and reviewing regularly alongside other relevant agencies.
Provide effective advice and advocacy services to ensure the women have access to specialist advice in key support areas.
Ensure the support is sensitive to the cultural, religious and specific needs of the client group and their children
Participate in the Out of Hours emergency on call rota as required
To engage and involve service users, in line with the service user engagement policy and strategy, by identifying opportunities for involvement through a process of on-going consultation and to use this process to inform and develop strategies, help shape the service and to enhance engagement and involvement.
Working with others
Support the Manager to induct, train and develop new staff and volunteers in accordance with HfW policy and procedure and best practice.
To develop and maintain positive, collaborative working relationships with all Housing for Women staff both locally and across the wider organisation, being committed as part of the team to providing a high level of support to survivors.
Foster a team working ethos, meet deadlines, offer support to colleagues and stakeholders where necessary and share successes. Build a team culture that is committed to delivering excellent results and continuous improvement.
Play an active role in service audit and reviews.
Develop positive working relationships with external agencies and relevant professionals to support the delivery and development of quality services that meet the needs of service users, ensuring that the interests of HfW are protected.
Work in conjunction with partner agencies and key stakeholders within safeguarding Child and Adult Protection Guidelines.
Act in a constructive and professional manner at all times, recognising the role is representing HfW and educating the community about domestic violence.
To actively participate in Housing for Women’s performance management processes including regular supervisions and development. Use supervisions and other reflective practice opportunities to consider strengths and weaknesses, thoughts beliefs and motivation.
Attend relevant training courses as identified during supervision and appraisal. To be mindful of your own wellbeing and seek support when needed.
Ensure effective implementation of Housing for Women’s Diversity and Inclusion policy. Foster an awareness of equality and human rights; integrate this ethos into all practices of your work. Always seek to further develop all anti-discriminatory practices.
Record keeping, data management
Ensure that accurate and up to date service user, financial and other relevant service records are maintained.
Ensure service user files and support plans are accurately completed and clear and that data is entered onto relevant system within policy timescales
Ensure that confidentiality of records and information relating to service users and staff is maintained in accordance with HfW’s Confidentiality Policy
Role Experience, Knowledge and Skills Profile Experience
Minimum of 2 years’ experience of working with vulnerable adults from diverse backgrounds on a floating support basisExperience of supporting survivors of DVA Experience of undertaking individual assessments including risk assessments and developing and delivering support plans.Experience of working collaboratively with external agencie Knowledge of the impact that DVA has upon service users and children.
Qualifications
Educated to NVQ III, A level standard or equivalent. Good standard of literacy & numeracy. Personal style and behaviour
A thorough understanding of and a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion as well as anti-discriminatory practice.
A flexible approach.
A commitment to the values, vision and objectives of Housing for Women’s culture of continuous service improvement.