Independent Domestic Abuse Advocate (Idaa) Training

Time commitment

This training is delivered online, across four different blocks with a total of 12 training days.

Further information including details about the course structure can be found in our FAQs about Independent Domestic Abuse Advocacy (Idaa) training.

Eligibility

The Idaa course is specifically tailored to those practicing within Scotland with the relevant knowledge and experience.

This is not an entry level course and the broad range of topics covered means it is only suitable for practitioners with at least six months of experience.

This includes those who are:

• Currently working as an independent domestic abuse advocate or domestic abuse practitioner.
• About to start work as an independent domestic abuse advocate or domestic abuse practitioner but have previous experience of working with those who are experiencing DA.
• Managers of a domestic abuse service who have experience of managing a caseload or managing those with a caseload.

If you are new to supporting people experiencing domestic abuse, an application should not be made until you have at least six months experience.

If you are providing support to victims in a voluntary capacity, this course is unlikely to be suitable for you, but if you have any doubts about whether you are eligible for the training, please get in touch with our team via [email protected].

Price

£1,652 per learner (includes registration fees with SQA).

There are not currently any subsidies available for the Idaa training course.

For more information about the price and decision to not have subsidies, please see the joint statement from the Professional Development Award in Domestic Abuse Advocacy Steering Group.

How to apply

Applications are now closed for Spring 2025

Please register interest for our Autumn 2025 course via the link below (dates TBC):

Register interest

Additional information about the application process can be found in our FAQs

Accessibility

We welcome learners of all backgrounds and abilities. We encourage you to share with us any details on accessibility and diversity needs so we can ensure the right support is in place. You can also contact us if you have any queries via [email protected].

Learner expectations

In order to receive the accreditation, learners must:

• Attend all 12 training days in full
• Complete all 4 adjoining assessments (taking on average 2.5 days per assessment) *
• Train online with cameras on and contributing throughout.

*We do not allow learners to only attend the training and opt out of the qualification. By signing up, learners are committing to attending the full 12 days, as well as completing the four adjoining assessments to receive their accreditation.

Manager expectations

If you are Line Manager thinking of putting someone forward for the training, it is important to understand that:

• Learners must not be interrupted during training
• Study time should be provided (1 day minimum per assessment – 4 in total)
• Support should be offered throughout to ensure that workload and training is balanced.