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Issues for Lesbian and bisexual women
Domestic violence also takes place in same sex relationships. Lesbian and bisexual women may experience abuse from:
- Male partners or ex partners
- Fathers of their children
- Female partners or ex partners
- Family members (perhaps because of a survivor’s sexuality)
Women are often reluctant to report that they have experienced abuse from a female partner due to additional barriers in gaining help and support.
- Fear of being stigmatised, disbelieved or ridiculed if their sexuality is declared
- Absence of appropriate mainstream services for Lesbian and gay women
- Fears of disclosure and exposing an abusive relationship to a homophobic and heterosexist society as well as fears of disclosure to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans-people (LGBT) communities themselves.
- Fears they may lose their children or contact be denied
- She may fear that the law does not apply to her
- She may feel uncomfortable going to a refuge
Under the Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004 those who are experiencing violence or abuse from partners or former partners of the same sex as themselves are entitled to the same rights as people who are being abused within heterosexual relationships.
Lesbian and bisexual women deserve the same protection and support to live free from violence as any other woman and service providers need to ensure they are sensitive and non judgemental
The same services that are offered to heterosexual women are also accessible to lesbian and bisexual women. All Birmingham refuges will offer accommodation to women experiencing abuse from a female partner.
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