Our data shows that where non-LGBT+ services are engaging with
LGBT+ people, there is a bias towards female bisexual women who have
experienced abuse from a male partner.
This is according to the SafeLives’ September 2018 report which highlights the experiences of LGBT+ victims and survivors of domestic abuse, and what needs to change so that every survivor gets the support they need.
This report finds:
- LGBT+ victims/survivors are not experiencing domestic abuse in isolation. There are high rates of poly victimisation; repeat experiences of abuse and discrimination over their lifetime
- LGBT+ people may also experience unique forms of coercive control targeted at their sexual orientation or gender identity
- 2.5% of people accessing support from Insights domestic abuse services identified as LGBT+.
The report recommends:
- Central and local governments should make funding available for specialist LGBT+ domestic abuse support
- Central and local government strategies, plans and imagery should reflect the range of relationships in which domestic abuse can take place
- Domestic abuse services should develop and display promotional material in LGBT+ spaces, though not exclusively. Many LGBT+ people won’t use LGBT+ only spaces so a more universal approach is needed.
