Domestic Abuse in LGBTQ+ communities – resources to help professional understanding
Current studies estimate that 60% to 80% of LGBTQ+ victims have never reported incidents to the police or accessed advice or protection from services (Galop).
Unique challenges
Abuse in LGBTQ+ relationships can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse. Unique forms of abuse may involve threats to “out” someone (revealing someone’s LBGTQ+ identity) to their family, employer, or community, manipulation of internalised homophobia or transphobia, and withholding of medication or access to healthcare.
If it is a first LGBTQ+ relationship since identifying as LGBTQ+, a lack of experience may lead to normalising abusive behaviours or misunderstanding what healthy LGBTQ+ relationships look like.
There are also some unique challenges for the older LGBTQ+ community. View the Dewis Choice ‘Do You See Me?’ Short film which provides insight into domestic abuse from the ‘lived experiences’ of older people.
Barriers to seeking help
Some of the barriers that LGBTQ+ people may face when seeking help include fear of discrimination, internalised stigma, and concerns about being outed. There may also be assumptions that services aren’t for them or a fear of being misunderstood or discriminated against.
Experiences of domestic abuse can be further shaped by factors such as race, disability, immigration status, and faith.
How to respond and further learning
Domestic abuse in the LGBTQ+ community requires increased awareness and targeted support. Understanding the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ people and providing inclusive resources, can significantly increase the confidence of LGBTQ+ victims to seek help and report abuse.
It can help to:
- Use inclusive, non-assumptive language
- Avoid assuming gender roles
- Ask open questions
- Signpost to specialist services where possible
For further learning about domestic abuse and the LGBTQ+ community access the free SETDAB LGBTQ+ Community & Domestic Abuse Basic Awareness E-learning package.
This short guide provides practical ways to ensure your approach is affirming, trauma-informed, and inclusive.
The OutHouse is a Colchester based registered charity, providing opportunities for LGBTQ+ people in Essex. Their mission is to develop and promote a sustainable, fair and equal society where all lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people can achieve their full potential. They also offer module-based learning events on a variety of LGBTQ+ topics.
Services that can help
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse within the LGBTQ+ community, there are organisations that provide specialised support and resources.
Local
Compass is the domestic abuse line for Essex, and you can call them on 0330 333 7 444 or visit their website.
The OutHouse – Dedicated to serving all LGBTQ+ individuals and committed to providing a safe and supportive space for you to find your community
National
Galop & The National Domestic Abuse Helpline
A 24/7 confidential helpline offering free support, advice and guidance to anyone experiencing domestic abuse.
Provides specialist advice, support services and resources for LGBTQ+ people, including those affected by domestic abuse.
IDAS (Independent Domestic Abuse Services – LGBTQ+ victims
Offers tailored support for LGBTQ+ victims and survivors, alongside a range of domestic abuse and safeguarding services.
Homepage | Switchboard national LBGTQIA+ support line
A confidential listening service providing information, support and signposting for LGBTQIA+ people across the UK.
Loving Me provide high quality support by trained specialists who understand the specific needs of the trans community as well as abuse and are a by-and-for service. The service is user-led which means that they provide support based on what the individual would like or needs
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