Information for LGBT+ and non‑binary people
While most tactics of abuse can be experienced by any
gender, sexual orientation or cultural background, there are some experiences
of domestic abuse that are specific to LGBT+ people. These could include:
- The threat, or action, of disclosing gender identity or sexual orientation to family friends or work colleagues (‘outing’).
- The undermining of someone’s sexual orientation or gender identity and expression.
- The denial of access to medical treatment or medications needed to express gender identity.
- Given the lack of recognition of domestic abuse in the LGBT+ community, abusers may manipulate victims to think no one would believe them.
- Isolation from LGBT+ spaces and the community.
- Refusal to use the correct pronouns.
- The pressure or coercion to act sexually in ways that make you feel uncomfortable or dysphoric, or to use stimulants during sex when you don’t want to (also known as ‘chem sex’)
Although not often in the spotlight, LGBT+ and non-binary people experience very high rates of domestic abuse. We believe that every person deserves support to help them understand and overcome domestic abuse, and we employ a gender-specific approach to tailor our support to your specific needs.
We are happy to discuss your specific circumstances with you and to offer you different options based on your situation. You can also have a look at the resources listed below or see our full list of resources here.
National LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline
Support for all LGBT+ people who have experience hate crime, domestic abuse or sexual violence. The LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Survivors Forum also provides a safe, anonymous space to talk about your experiences and support one another.
Call 0800 999 5428 (Monday to Friday, 10am-5pm and Wednesday to Thursday 10am-8pm) or email help@galop.org.uk
LGBT Domestic Abuse Scotland
A project which works to raise the awareness of LGBT people’s experiences of domestic abuse and improve service responses to LGBT people who experience gender based violence.
https://lgbtdomesticabuse.org.uk/
LGBT Health and Wellbeing
Working to improve the health, wellbeing and equality of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT+) people in Scotland.
Call 0300 123 2523 (Tuesday & Wednesday, 12-9pm and Thursday & Sunday 1-6pm)
