SEXUAL ASSAULT PREVENTION RESPONSE VICTIM ADVOCATE (SAPR VA)

Sexual Assault Prevention Response Victim Advocate

A GS-0101-11, Sexual Assault Prevention Response Victim Advocate (SAPR VA):

Perform essential victim service, advocacy, and support duties; provide a non-clinical response that is trauma-informed, gender-responsive, culturally responsive, and recovery-oriented, and without prejudice to adult victims of sexual assault. Demonstrate understanding of trauma related to sexual violence and related complexities. This work involves Privacy Act and Controlled Unclassified Information and is therefore highly sensitive in nature.

Apply basic strategies for skilled communication, including developing rapport and actively listening, to provide initial victim advocacy services and crisis intervention support for adult victims of sexual assault and comply with mandated timeframes for responding to requests and completing required documents within those timeframes. Conduct mandated initial risk screening; non-clinical safety assessment and planning; and coordinate medical, legal, and civilian and military law enforcement resources to address immediate risk, safety, and supportive service needs in accordance with applicable policy, prioritizing confidentiality and informed consent.

Accept official reports of sexual assault by assisting the victim in completing the Defense Department (DD) Form 2910 and other official Department of Defense (DoD) forms as applicable, taking sensitive care of handling personally identifiable information when it is disclosed, as well as covered communications. Ensure to communicate with the victim an understanding of the SAPR VA role in the reporting process, subsequent processes associated with their election to file a report in accordance with DoD and Service level policies and regulations and provide tailored referrals and resources as applicable.

Demonstrate expertise in offering comprehensive guidance to victims on reporting options (Restricted and Unrestricted), to include options for those not ready to report, explaining exceptions and limitations for each, and ensuring understanding of the eligibility criteria for Special Victims' Counsel (SVC). Uphold the rights and confidentiality preferences of victims consistently throughout the reporting process. Support victims when contacting appropriate offices and facilitate warm hand-offs as requested.

Perform a series of complex assessments using trauma-informed approaches for all reports of adult sexual assault. Apply research informed practices associated with victim advocacy, social service principles, and behavioral theories to include mandatory administration of standardized risk screenings and non-clinical safety assessment(s), thoroughly addressing all presenting safety concerns through use of risk mitigation strategies and techniques, developing an individualized safety plan with each victim, and conducting ongoing needs assessments and planning to address victim safety and support needs.

Implement mandatory standardized risk screening protocols to address immediate risk and safety concerns and apply strategies to develop tailored interventions that address the needs of individual victims. Provide assistance to victims in securing medical treatment for physical and psychological injuries; safe shelter; protective orders; support before, during, and after trials; educational services; transportation; financial services; and any other services identified and requested by the victim.

Inform victims of the resources available to report instances of sexual assault related retaliation, reprisal, ostracism, maltreatment, sexual harassment, or to request a transfer.

Collaborate and consult with other SAPR personnel in the state to ensure efficient service delivery, manage caseloads, and meet reporting requirements. Demonstrate proactive awareness of vicarious trauma and support efforts to address and build individual and organizational resilience.

Facilitate the planning, scheduling, and delivery of SAPR training for diverse stakeholders and local populations, covering SAPR policies, procedures, reporting options, and other pertinent topics delegated by the Supervisory Principal SARC in compliance with DoD and Service policy. Locate and reserve training sites for SAPR annual training and briefs, to include the coordination of audio-visual support and equipment and that necessary training materials are present.

Assist the SARC in the management and maintenance of up-to-date case files in Defense Sexual Assault Incident Database (DSAID), as applicable, ensuring compliance with legal, privacy, and organizational policies and victim advocacy professional standards within the applicable timeframes per guidance.

Employ complex trauma-informed practices to provide tailored emotional support, ensuring victims feel respected, heard, and understood.

Other duties as assigned.