Senior Child and Young Person's Advocate

Solace Women’s Aid is an innovative, exciting, grassroots charity working across London. Our purpose is to bring to an end the harm done through domestic and sexual violence to all survivors, and in particular women and children. Our work is holistic and empowering, working alongside survivors to achieve independent lives free from abuse.

You will be joining a team of committed and inspiring individuals whose dedication has saved the lives of thousands of women, men and children in the capital. We are looking for friendly and diligent individuals to join our services and help us make a difference.

About the Service

The Lighthouse is the UK’s first Child House, a service where children are put at the centre and given the support they need to recover and rebuild their lives after having experienced sexual abuse. Instead of putting a child through an adult-facing system, the Lighthouse focuses on meeting the needs of the child. It provides a coordinated approach, where all medical, advocacy, social care, police, and therapeutic support is delivered from one place. The aim is that children, young people and their families receive justice, support and therapy in a timely manner meaning they can move forward towards recovery.

About the Role

We are seeking a Senior Child and Young Person’s Advocate to work to ensure child victims of sexual abuse, their families and their ‘key support networks’ who attend the Lighthouse are supported to navigate the criminal justice, health and therapeutic systems.

Working within the multi-disciplinary Lighthouse, but managed by Solace, the post holder will deliver direct high-quality advocacy service to children, young people and their families.

There is a requirement to take considerable responsibility and work autonomously.

The Lighthouse is open Monday to Saturday 10am – 8pm and Sunday morning, if service users require. The team will be required to cover the opening hours by working flexibly to a pattern.

About You

Ideal candidates will have experience of child-centred direct work, promoting the voice, rights, participation and best interests of the child and engaging family/key people in planning, decision-making and evaluation. 

A clear understanding of sexual and domestic violence, trauma and the long-term mental health effects of sexual violence, especially on children, is essential. You will demonstrate a working knowledge of criminal and civil legislation, the Criminal Justice System, court and police procedures and how these relate to sexual abuse.

A flexible approach to your work and a commitment to the values of Solace Women’s Aid is essential.

In return, we offer great employee benefits including three per cent employer pension contribution, generous holiday entitlement and a focus on learning and development.