Domestic abuse in LGBTQIA+ relationships
During this year’s 10 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, we’re supporting Knowsley Council’s domestic abuse campaign, Is This You?
According to research, domestic abuse in LGBTQIA+ relationships occurs with the same frequency as domestic abuse in heterosexual relationships. However, with the common portrayal of domestic abuse being that of a male perpetrator and female victim, many people who do not identify with that relationship struggle to find the support they need.
Often the signs of domestic abuse in an LGBTQIA+ relationship will be the same. However, there are also some aspects of abuse that are unique. These include:
- ‘Outing’ as method of coercive control – threatening to reveal your gender or sexual identity to others
- Denying you access to medical treatment or hormones
- Using your gender or sexuality to cause you distress or harm
Although the above tactics might be different to those used in a heterosexual relationship, they are still examples of domestic abuse.
There are number of national charities that provide specialist domestic abuse support to those who identify as LGBTQIA+. These are:
Galop
Galop is the leading LGBTQIA+ anti-violence and abuse charity, providing the National LGBTQIA+Domestic Abuse Helpline. They provide advice and support to individuals who have experienced hate crime, sexual violence, and domestic abuse and have an online referral form. They also offer a Trans Advocacy Service.
Website: www.galop.org.uk
Helpline: 0800 999 5428
Email: help@galop.org.uk
Switchboard
Switchboard provides information, support and referral services for lesbians, gay men and bisexual and trans people across the UK. They offer confidential, non-judgemental support to callers on any problems they are facing and can refer to more specialist advice and counselling. They provide a chat service from 3pm.
Website: https://switchboard.lgbt/
Phone: 0300 330 0630
Email: chris@switchboard.lgbt
Where else can I turn for help?
If you, your child, or someone you know is at immediate risk of harm, you should contact the police urgently, call 999. If you are not at immediate risk but are concerned, please contact one of the services listed below:
Knowsley Council Safer Communities Service (Specialist Domestic Abuse Service)
Tel: 0151 443 2610
Enquiries.safercommunities@knowsley.gov.uk
Knowsley Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub
Tel: 0151 443 2600
The First Step (Specialist Domestic Abuse Service)
Tel: 0151 548 3333
Website: www.thefirststep.org.uk
Savera UK
Helpline 0800 107 0726
www.saverauk.co.uk
Support is also available through:
- National Domestic violence Helpline 0808 2000 247
- Men’s Advice Line 0808 801 0327