DASSH Team Advocate

About the Job

Part time: 22.5 Hours Per Week

Interview Date: 8 January 2025

Working within the Safeguarding Team in Student Services, the DASSH Advocate provides specialist advocacy and casework support to students affected by domestic abuse, sexual violence, stalking, and harmful cultural practices. The post-holder responds to referrals, undertakes risk assessments, develops safety and support plans and coordinates with internal and external agencies to ensure a holistic, survivor-centred approach.

They provide practical and emotional support, facilitate referrals to support services and organisation both internally and externally to UON and facilitate engagement with workshops or peer-support initiatives.

The post contributes to DASSH's strategic objectives, fostering cultural competence, intersectional practice, and adherence to University of Northampton polices and National Frameworks whilst supporting the wider university community in safeguarding and multi-agency responses.

We are only seeking women for this post as the Occupational Requirement under Schedule 9 (part 1) of the Equality Act 2010 applies to the post. We specifically encourage women of minortised heritage with experience of the migration system and or embodied difference to apply for this position.

This post is subject to a background disclosure check by the Disclosure and Barring Service before any appointment can be confirmed.

About You

We are looking for a compassionate, motivated and resilient individual with experience supporting vulnerable or marginalised groups, such as refugees or care-experienced people.

The ideal candidate will have exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, be confident managing their own caseload, and work effectively both independently and as part of a multi-agency team.

They will demonstrate a solid understanding of safeguarding, confidentiality, and survivor-centred, culturally competent practice.

Fluency in a community language such as Punjabi, Hindi, Urdu or Bangla would be an advantage. Above all, we seek someone with integrity, discretion, and a commitment to continuous professional development and high-quality support for those they serve.

Qualifications

Essential;

• Educated to A-Level- or equivalent qualifications/ experience

Desirable;

• Educated to degree level in a relevant field (eg. humanities, Essential Application social sciences, law)- or equivalent experience
• A relevant professional qualification, or willingness to undertake this (eg. ISVA, IDVA, SVLO, Safeguarding Adults and Children)

Department

This post is situated within the DASSH Team, which forms a key part of the Safeguarding Team within Student Services at UON. The post holder will be working within the Library, Learning and Student Services Department.

About Us

At the University of Northampton, we are committed to supporting aspirations, creating opportunities, and delivering meaningful impact. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we foster a progressive, inclusive environment where excellence thrives for our students and staff.

Our People

Our staff are our greatest asset. We are dedicated to building an inclusive community that values diversity, promotes wellbeing, and supports personal and professional growth. By developing a first-rate People Strategy, we aim to attract and retain top talent, enhance career progression, and ensure that every colleague feels empowered to achieve their best.

Our Values

• Inclusivity: We celebrate diversity and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to excel.
• Sustainability: We are committed to becoming a net zero carbon institution, taking collective action for the benefit of society and the environment.
• Aspiration: We strive for excellence in all we do, empowering our staff, students, and partners to reach their highest potential.
• Trust: We build relationships based on respect, transparency, and shared goals.

Together, we are creating a future where our community, our work, and our impact truly make a difference.

Right to work

All candidates will be asked to provide proof of eligibility to work in the UK at interview.

Due to the requirements laid out by UK Visas and Immigration regarding Right to Work in the UK, the University can only accept applications from individuals who currently have a status allowing them to work in the UK for this position. Due to this criteria we regret that we are unable to offer sponsorship at this time.

Equality

We welcome applications from individuals from underrepresented groups.

The University of Northampton is committed to providing a vibrant, ethical, and sustainable environment that values equality, diversity, and inclusion. Our commitment ensures an inclusive atmosphere for staff, students, and the public. We manage equality and diversity through key committees and formal policies, extending our responsibility to subsidiary companies and partnerships.

Together @ UON

Our Commitment to Equality and Inclusion

Together @ UON affirms our dedication to creating an environment that celebrates diversity and promotes equality. We aim to foster a space where all can thrive, aligning with our mission to transform lives and inspire change.

Commitments Include:

• Creating an Inclusive Environment: Adopting a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination and ensuring all activities are inclusive.

• Supporting Students and Staff: Strengthening mental health support, enhancing disability confidence, and ensuring academic and professional support.

• Tackling Inequalities: Involving students in recruitment, integrating forums for equality data analysis, and supporting networks for protected characteristics.

UON's Major Commitments:

• Disability Confident
• Standalone Pledge
• IHRA Working Definition

For more details, visit: Equality and Diversity at UON