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In the last episode of Undiscussable, we looked at male victims of domestic abuse, with, the perpetrator being a woman. This week we’re going to look the experience in a same-sex relationship and the LGBT+ community. Just a note that I’m using the term LGBT+ but it’s also important to keep in mind this isn’t a generalisation and the identities and needs of people are unique. Domestic abuse being thought of as gendered by nature dominates the conversation and often is framed in a heterosexual relationship, and that victims are all straight women.

Something we’ve been addressing through this series but I would like to highlight is that partner abuse is a systematic pattern of behaviours where one person attempts to exert power and control over the thoughts, beliefs, and/or actions of their partner, someone they are dating or have/had an intimate relationship with.

LGBT+ victims of domestic abuse are twice as likely to have experienced abuse by a family member in childhood.

This is what happened to Gavin, who we hear from in this episode. He had a childhood of abuse and neglect, and then as a young man was sexually exploited multiple times.

Domestic abuse also happens in lesbian relationships. Jessica has bravely shared her story with us, she is no longer with her abusive partner but still fears her and had to move to a completely new area to escape her.

Guests

Duncan Craig OBE and CEO of Survivors Manchester

Amy manager of the National LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline

Thank you to Gavin and Jessica. And Duncan and Amy.

If there’s anything you can relate to please contact Galop, they welcome anyone from the LGBT+ community and the national LGBT domestic abuse helpline is 0800 999 5428 and email: help@galop.org.uk And the national domestic abuse helpline ran by Refuge is 08082000247 and please contact mankind.org.uk for male victims. Survivors Manchester.org.uk - Duncan Craig’s organisation.

Please do check out The I Am … Project survey iamproject.org if you feel able to take part, it focuses on intimate partner relationships within the LGBTQ+ community. Supported by SafeLives, Stonewall, UK Black Pride and The British LGBT Awards, to identify the prevalence of domestic abuse across the LGBTQ+ community.

Thank you for listening.

Undiscussable has been backed by the Audio Content Fund for a special 8 part series with national radio station TalkRadio in the UK. It is on every Friday during drivetime at 6:30 pm featuring interviews with survivors from across society and includes live discussion and expert support.