Skip to content

Independent Sexual Violence Advocate (ISVA) training

Rape Crisis England & Wales (RCEW) offers accredited ISVA training for people working in both Rape Crisis and non-Rape Crisis services. Find out more on this page.

➡️ How to book

About our ISVA training

Our training helps ISVAs gain the skills, knowledge and awareness they need to properly support victims and survivors of sexual violence and abuse.

Book your spot
A middle-aged woman with bobbed hair smiles and looks straight into the camera.

Useful information

Who is the training for?

  • Anyone currently training to become an ISVA.
  • Newly qualified ISVAs.
  • Anyone in a role where they are providing practical and emotional support to survivors of sexual violence.

This includes people working at both Rape Crisis and non-Rape Crisis services.

What does it involve?

The training is made up of six units, delivered over six full days of training:

  1. Working with survivors of sexual violence.
  2. Key principles of advocacy.
  3. Supporting survivors through the criminal justice system.
  4. Working with children and young people.
  5. Risk assessments and safety planning.
  6. Effects on wellbeing and self-care.

Each unit has assignments, which allow participants to demonstrate their full understanding of the course material and relevant skills.

Who delivers the training?

The training is delivered on behalf of RCEW by Purple Leaf.

Purple Leaf is a trading name of West Mercia Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre, an RCEW member centre.

What qualification will participants receive?

Participants who successfully complete the course will receive an AIM Qualifications Level 3 Award in Advocacy for Working with Survivors of Sexual Violence.

Find out more about qualification levels

When are the next trainings?

June/July 2025: 3rd June, 11th June, 19th June, 26th June, 2nd July, 8th July (all days online).

September/October 2025: 9th September, 17th September, 25th September, 2nd October, 8th October, 14th October (first day in Birmingham; all other days online).

November/December 2025: 6th November, 12th November, 18th November, 25th November, 3rd December, 11th December (all days online).

February/March 2026: 10th February, 18th February, 3rd March, 10th March, 18th March, 26th March (first day in Birmingham; all other days online).

How much does it cost?

For RCEW members: £1,350 per person.

For non-RCEW members: £2,000 per person.

How to book

Please email enquiries@purpleleaf.org.uk or call 01905 677444 to book your spot.

There are a limited number of places available for each course – so make sure you don't miss out!

Please note: the training is delivered by Purple Leaf on our behalf.

Download our ISVA information leaflet
A young woman sits on a sofa and looks at a laptop.