Specialist Domestic & Sexual Violence Adviser

About us:

King's College London, a leading global university with a commitment to impactful research and education, provides comprehensive support services for its diverse student body.

Within Student Advice, Wellbeing and Welfare Services, dedicated practitioners, including the Specialist Domestic and Sexual Violence Adviser, offer crucial assistance to students facing a range of complex challenges affecting their lives and studies. 

These professionals work collaboratively to ensure a supportive and inclusive environment for all.

About the role:

The Specialist Domestic and Sexual Violence Adviser within Student Support & Wellbeing Services provides crucial support to students affected by harassment and/or sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment, assault, rape, unwanted sexual conduct, bullying, domestic violence, and coercive control. The role also encompasses broader welfare cases to ensure comprehensive student support.

Supporting a diverse student population, including those with complex needs, the post holder offers tailored guidance and advocacy. The varied and challenging caseload involves navigating difficult situations for students and connecting them with relevant internal and external specialist services. Key responsibilities include conducting risk and safety assessments, contributing to coordinated support plans through collaboration with university colleagues and external partners, and aiming to reduce harm and improve student well-being.

Maintaining case ownership until initial concerns are stabilised and appropriate support is in place is essential. The role demands a strong understanding of domestic and sexual violence/abuse, safeguarding principles, and the evolving regulatory landscape concerning harassment and sexual misconduct within a university context.

This is a full time post (35 Hours per week), and you will be offered an indefinite contract.

About you: 

Essential criteria

• Education/Qualification: Educated to degree level or possess relevant professional qualifications such as ISVA, IDVA, Social Work, or a similar field.
• Expert Knowledge: Deep understanding of domestic abuse and sexual violence dynamics, trauma, and impact. Including familiarity with UK legislation, national guidance and safeguarding procedures.
• Risk Assessment & Safety Planning Proficiency: Proven ability to conduct risk assessments and develop safety plans.
• Direct Support Experience: Demonstrable experience providing direct support and advocacy to those who have experienced domestic/sexual violence or harm.
• Strong Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Excellent ability to communicate sensitively and build rapport with diverse individuals.
• Understanding of Confidentiality & Safeguarding: Firm grasp of data protection and information sharing protocols.
• Understanding of higher education: Understanding the current context of pressures and concerns in relation to student engagement and participation, and how to be an ally in navigating these, including those who are experiencing mental ill-health
• Effective Caseload Management: Ability to manage a caseload, prioritise, and maintain accurate records.

Desirable criteria

• Higher Education Experience: Understanding of the university environment and its specific challenges.
• Line management experience: Proven experience in supervising and supporting staff, including performance management and professional development.

Further information:

We ask all candidates to submit a copy of their CV, and a supporting statement, detailing how they meet the essential criteria listed in the advert. If we receive a strong field of candidates, we may use the desirable criteria to choose our final shortlist, so please include your evidence against these where possible.

Interviews are due to be held on 19th June 2025.

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