Overview
Domestic Abuse Caseworker (all victims/survivors)
Job Description
Job TitleDomestic Abuse Caseworker (all victims/survivors)
Accountable toThe Board of Trustees / Chief Executive
Line ManagerCOO / Operational Practice Manager
Hours of Work35 hours per week – part time hours considered
Salary£26,000 pro rata
Closing Date15th May 2026
Job PurposeTo provide a direct support service to any victim / survivor of domestic abuse.
Job Responsibilities
* To operate a helpline service for victim/survivors, professionals and the wider community. You will conduct a full needs assessment, risk assessments and safety planning with a victim/survivor at the first point of contact. You will be the allocated worker overseeing case management by providing person-centred advice and support sessions to assist the service user in developing their personal plan.
* Ensure effective access for all victim/survivors of domestic abuse and encourage engagement with the service through proactive contact, rapport building and assessment.
* Hold and manage a varied and fluctuating caseload and work on a rota basis within the team to carry out comprehensive assessments of need and risk for victim/survivors experiencing domestic abuse. Deliver short and longer-term risk management, safety planning and support, and identify and refer to services appropriate to individual needs in line with internal and external guidance, policies and procedures.
* Attend multi-agency and partnership meetings as required and act in a consultancy or advisory capacity for external agencies, including statutory and other relevant agencies, in line with the responsibilities of the role.
* Advise service users of their rights and options for seeking help and support. Develop person-centred support plans underpinned by empowerment approaches. Make referrals, coordinate multi-agency support and advocate on behalf of service users to reduce barriers to accessing protection and support, using a trauma-informed approach.
* Proactively assess the needs and safety of service users at risk, following internal and external policies and procedures and the SWACA Safeguarding Policy.
* Work with the Head of Operations and senior management to ensure monitoring and evaluation requirements are completed accurately and maintained in line with service specifications and contract key performance indicators. Engage service users in the development and improvement of service delivery and keep managers informed of issues and successes.
* Support new staff, students and volunteers through induction, including shadowing and sharing organisational processes, to ensure consistent service delivery.
* Maintain accurate, up-to-date and relevant case notes on both the SWACA Case Management system and Local Authority systems. Prepare internal and external reports as required, including safeguarding conference reports, court reports, legal aid letters, team meeting minutes and monitoring reports.
* Work within confidentiality and data protection requirements, ensuring professional boundaries are maintained when working with service users, staff, volunteers and external agencies.
* Continue personal development through training, supervision and team meetings as directed, and remain up to date with relevant legislation, policy and practice.
* Some evening and weekend work is required as part of the role. Time off in lieu will be authorised.
* Promote the interests of the charity, including supporting fundraising and public relations events.
* Other duties appropriate to the general nature of the role may be allocated from time to time.
Person Specification
Essential Requirements
Knowledge, Education and Qualifications
* A relevant qualification or training in domestic abuse, criminal justice, law, social work, child development, substance misuse or a related area.
* A thorough understanding of the dynamics of domestic abuse and its impact on victim/survivors and communities.
* A sound working knowledge of safeguarding legislation and practice.
Experience
* Experience of supporting victim/survivors of domestic abuse, forced marriage or so-called honour-based violence, or experience supporting individuals with complex needs.
* Experience of identifying and managing risk, completing needs assessments and safety and support planning, particularly with individuals with complex or multiple needs.
* A working knowledge of multi-agency approaches and partnership networks.
Skills
* Excellent listening skills and ability to engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
* Ability to work effectively as part of a team and use own initiative.
* Accurate data recording and monitoring skills, with confidence using IT systems.
* Strong report writing skills, including reports for courts, case conferences and Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conferences (MARAC).
* Ability to manage a busy and complex caseload.
General
* Ability to reflect on own practice through supervision, line management and peer support.
* Strong understanding of confidentiality, data protection, trauma-informed practice and safe working practices.
* Strong understanding of and ability to support Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.
* Ability to maintain high professional standards in line with organisational policies and procedures.
Desirable Requirements
* Access to own vehicle.
* Willingness to support fundraising and income generation activities.
Notes
Due to the nature of SWACA's work, a satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check is required.
SWACA is committed to safeguarding women, men, children and young people.
How to apply
Please email recruitment@swaca.com to request an application form.
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