Become a Skilled Advocate for Victims and Survivors of Domestic Abuse

COURSE DATES

Unit 1: 23-25 March 2027
Unit 2: 4-6 May 2027
Unit 3: 1-3 June 2027
Unit 4: 6-8 July 2027

The National Level 3 Independent Domestic Violence Advocate (IDVA) Qualification has been designed to equip learners with the specialist knowledge, practical skills, and professional confidence required to support individuals affected by domestic abuse.

This nationally recognised qualification provides a comprehensive understanding of domestic abuse, risk assessment, safeguarding, trauma-informed practice, and multi-agency working. It prepares learners to work effectively within a range of domestic abuse, safeguarding, housing, community safety, and support service settings.

Whether you are already working within the sector or seeking to develop a career in advocacy and victim support, this qualification offers a strong foundation for professional practice.

Why Choose This Qualification?

✔ Ofqual regulated and nationally recognised
✔ Accredited by OCN London
✔ Developed to support best practice within the domestic abuse sector
✔ Enhances professional knowledge and career progression opportunities
✔ Supports effective and ethical victim-centred practice
✔ Promotes trauma-informed and safeguarding-focused approaches
✔ Recognised by employers across the support, housing, safeguarding, and community sectors

Who Is This Qualification For?

This programme is suitable for:
Independent Domestic Violence Advocates (IDVAs)
Domestic abuse practitioners
Outreach and support workers
Refuge and safe accommodation staff
Housing professionals
Family support workers
Community safety practitioners
Social care professionals
Safeguarding practitioners
Individuals seeking a career supporting victims and survivors of domestic abuse

No previous IDVA qualification is required, although experience in a related support role may be beneficial.

What Will You Learn?

Throughout the programme, learners will develop knowledge and understanding of:

Understanding Domestic Abuse
Types and indicators of domestic abuse
Coercive and controlling behaviour
The impact of abuse on adults, children, and families
Barriers to disclosure and engagement

Risk Assessment and Safety Planning
Identifying levels of risk
Assessing immediate and ongoing safety concerns
Developing effective safety plans
Crisis intervention strategies

Trauma-Informed Practice
Understanding trauma and its effects
Building trust and professional relationships
Empowerment and recovery-focused approaches

Safeguarding Responsibilities
Adult and child safeguarding principles
Information sharing and confidentiality
Professional accountability and ethical practice

Multi-Agency Working
Working collaboratively with statutory and voluntary services
Understanding referral pathways
Supporting clients through criminal justice, housing, and social care processes

Professional Practice
Maintaining professional boundaries
Record keeping and case management
Equality, diversity, and inclusion
Reflective practice and continuous professional development

Assessment Methods

Assessment may include:
Written assignments
Case study analysis
Reflective accounts
Professional discussions
Portfolio-based evidence

There are no formal examinations.


TIME COMMITMENT - IMPORTANT

The course will take place across 4 Units comprising 3 consecutive full day sessions, usually 10am to 4pm. The sessions will be delivered by Zoom.

This means 12 days of training, and an estimate of another 5 days for coursework completion. All learners must submit their completed coursework within 3 months from completing Unit 4.

Please ensure that you have discussed this time commitment with your manager so they are aware and plan your workload accordingly

Before the first unit commences we will need you to first read the induction manual which is the first document in the course content. As the induction manual also contains instructions on how to use the learning portal you may wish to download the manual to your files so you can review it as needed.