LGBTQ+ Support
The Paul Lavelle Foundation is an all-inclusive service which offers a safe space for male victims & survivors of domestic abuse within the LGBTQ+ community, embracing diversity with compassion and understanding.
Central to our mission is the commitment to establishing a safe space where individuals, regardless of sexual orientation, can access support.
We foster a holistic approach. We recognise and address the distinctive challenges faced by male survivors from the LGBTQ+ community, nurturing an environment of trust and respect. From confidential 1:1 sessions to practical assistance, our support network is designed to meet the diverse needs of each survivor.
We belief that every voice within the LGBTQ+ community deserves to be heard, and every survivor is entitled to receive the support they need, to move forward.
We aim to eradicate the stigma surrounding male victims of domestic violence within the LGBTQ+ community and encourage all males who are experiencing domestic abuse to speak out and seek support.
Research highlights that domestic abuse in LGBTQ+ communities is a serious issue. However, despite high levels, it remains acutely underreported and LGBTQ+ survivors are disproportionally underrepresented in domestic abuse services, including criminal justice agencies.
Barriers typically relate to LGBTQ+ people’s perception of themselves, the abuse and the support system, and may include:
- Failing to recognise their experience as domestic abuse.
- Concerned that their partner will ‘OUT’ them if they disclose domestic abuse in their relationship
- Belief that domestic abuse doesn’t happen in same-sex relationships.
- Previous bad experiences with reporting/support services.
- Concerns about homophobia and transphobia in service provision.
- Belief that non- LGBTQ+ services are not for LGBTQ+ people.
- Belief that disclosure will not be taken seriously.
- Concerns around disclosing sexual orientation or gender identity.
- Knowledge of and connectedness to local LGBTQ+ community
- Lack of established partnerships with specialist LGBTQ+ domestic abuse services.
- Lack of established partnerships with local LGBTQ+ organisations
- Low visibility and representation of LGBTQ+ issues within the service, across internal and external publications (e.g. leaflets, booklets, websites, annual reports etc.) or within physical organisational space.