Domestic Abuse in the LGBTQ+ Community

Over LGBTQ+ History Month, individuals come together in celebration of every LGBTQ+ person and in protest of any abuse individuals face.

This includes solidarity against domestic abuse. Contrary to the myth that abuse cannot happen in LGBTQ+ relationships, around 25% of LGBTQ+ people and 80% of transgender people have suffered domestic abuse[1].

These are around the same rates which are suffered by heterosexual women[2]. Partner abuse does not discriminate and both victims and abusers can be anyone[3].

However there are some aspects of domestic abuse which are unique to LGBTQ+ people and their experiences. These include:

• Threatening to ‘out’ someone for their sexual orientation or gender identity
• Limiting or controlling access to networks relevant to coming to terms with gender and sexual identity
• Undermining someone’s sense of gender or sexual identity
• Refusing to correct pronouns
• Preventing someone from disclosing their background or identity
• Abusers who deny a person’s access to medical treatment or coercing them into not pursuing treatment
• Increased isolation due to lack of family support

Alongside this there are an assortment of other myths surrounding the experiences of LGBTQ+ people and domestic abuse. The following examples illustrate the disappointing extent of these myths:

• “Partner abuse is about size or strength, or whoever looks more masculine.” 

This is not the case. A perpetrator of domestic abuse is someone who is or has used violence, abuse, fear, force, threats and coercive control. Age, size, weight, masculine or feminine appearance or any other physical attribute or role is not an indicator of whether a person will be a victim or abuser.

• “Women abusers are less physically abusive. “

Anyone can be abusive. Gender stereotypes cause people to believe women abusers are more likely to use emotional tactics rather than physical. However female abusers can be as equally violent as males.

• “It is easier for LGBT survivors to leave abusive relationships than it is for heterosexual counterparts who are married.”

There is no reasoning to suggest LGBTQ+ people are not as involved in their counterparts lives, regardless of marriage. In fact, they can often be more family orientated as they may have experienced isolation or alienation from their own families or social networks. In cases where the abused partner is in the UK on a spousal visa, abusers may also take advantage of a lack of awareness about immigration law and their ability to deport them. Particularly if their country of origin may be unsafe. For example if there is strict anti-gay legislation in place[5].

If you or someone you know has experienced any of the above, there are a number of organisations whose focus is to assist LGBTQ+ people with domestic abuse:

Galop

Provided support and lobbying around the issues of LGBTQ+ for over 30 years. They have a dedicated National Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans+ Domestic Abuse Helpline which people.

You can call Galop Monday-Friday on: 0800 999 5428.

Survivors Network

Offer extensive online resources in regard to survivors of domestic or sexual violence. They offer a variety of services including counselling and a helpline.

You can contact Survivors Network Wednesdays 12-2pm on 01273 720 110, or alternatively email them at: help@survivorsnetwork.org.uk

Respect Men’s advice line

A confidential helpline for male victims of domestic abuse and those supporting them. They offer advice and emotional support to men who experience abuse and signpost to other vital services.

You can contact them Monday-Friday on 0808 8010327 or access their webchat support Wednesday, Thursday and Friday here.

WHAT TO DO NEXT

If you or someone you know has been a victim of domestic abuse, you maybe entitled to compensation. The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority is a government led scheme which seeks to provide compensation for physical and psychological injuries caused by crimes of violence. This includes domestic abuse.

If you would like to discuss the prospect of commencing a claim under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority Scheme for any abuse you have suffered*, please contact us on 0113 200 9787 or see our page dedicated to these claims here.

*Please note – these claims do not involve contacting perpetrators of abuse. Abusers will not be made aware that you are applying and they play no part in your claim.

Sources:

[1] Domestic violence and abuse (stonewall.org.uk)

[2] http://www.endthefear.co.uk/same-sex-domestic-abuse/

[3] For-Service-Providers-Myths.pdf (galop.org.uk)

Further reading

Criminal Injury (CICA) Claims – Oakwood Solicitors

WHAT TO DO NEXT

Get in touch today for a no-obligation consultation. Choose one of the methods on the right-hand side of this page, or call us on 0113 200 9720 to find out how we can help you with your enquiry.