Our Children and Young People team have seen an increase in the number of young LGBTQ+ being referred into our services.
Domestic abuse can affect anyone. No matter your background, identity or circumstances, anyone could be a victim of relationship abuse, which isn’t just physical violence, it’s also when someone purposefully controls, manipulates or threatens another person. This includes checking your phone and social media, telling who you can and can’t spend time with and controlling your money and spending.
For anyone in a LGBTQ+ relationship, there are a number of unique to domestic abuse tactics that may be used by a perpetrator. These include threatening to ‘out them’ to friends and family, undermining their sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and being isolated from support networks.
Ruth works young people who have experienced domestic abuse in their own relationships: “Over a third of my current case load are LGBTQ+ victims and we are seeing an increase in referrals for same sex relationships.
“These young people face the same violence, control and abuse but often have different challenges when looking for help. It can be difficult for victims to find services that not only understand the specific needs of the LGBTQ+ community but also recognise the specialist support needed to help with teenage dating and domestic abuse.
“It is essential that young people know that Glow are here to support them.”
Research from Stonewall shows that 1 in 4 lesbian and bi women and 49% of gay and bi men have experienced some form of domestic abuse from a family member or partner.
There is limited research on how many trans people experience domestic abuse in the UK, but a study by Scottish Transgender Alliance indicates that 80% of trans people had experienced abuse from a partner or ex-partner. This suggests, even with a small sample of people, relationship abuse is a significant issue.
At Glow, we offer support specialist support to anyone affected by domestic abuse, including support for people in the LGBTQ+ community.
