Since countries around the world have gone into lockdown over the past two weeks, many LGBTQ+ people experiencing domestic abuse may now find themselves locked up indoors with their abuser. The government has urged everyone to stay at home, and non-essential journeys are discouraged, as is changing your abode. But when your home is no longer safe, what should you do? Below is vital information if you’re in this exact situation.

What are domestic violence and abuse? Read our fact sheet on abusive relationships, or read this helpful info piece - Domestic violence and abuse and the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender communities - from Galop. 

You can still leave during lockdown

The government has been clear on this issue: people experiencing domestic violence and abuse can still leave home, they can still seek refuge, and the police will still provide assistance, in spite of the current lockdown and coronavirus crisis. 

The Home Secretary has confirmed this, adding that it doesn’t matter whether the abuse is “physical, emotional, or otherwise”. If you need to leave your home and go elsewhere, you can. 

Support services are still open

Not every domestic abuse charity or service is still operating at full capacity during the coronavirus pandemic, but many services are still running. Most importantly, the National LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline is still running - T: 0800 999 5428 E: [email protected] - which can tell you where to find help.

Please note, it may take longer for some services to get back to you as they adjust to the lockdown, or experience staff shortages. They will get back to you.

Operators are reporting a reduction in contact from people who need help, possibly because they don’t feel safe, but also because they may believe that services aren’t running: they are. 

Find a list of support services in the What Next section below.

You can still call 999

The police will still respond to 999 calls about domestic abuse, and are still willing to enter people’s homes. If you’re in immediate danger and need assistance, the emergency services are your first port of call.

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What Next? 

Support

999 - If you’re in immediate danger then it’s best to call the police by dialling 999. The emergency services will still respond to your call throughout the coronavirus lockdown.

National LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline - Emotional and practical support for LGBT+ people experiencing domestic abuse. Abuse isn’t always physical- it can be psychological, emotional, financial and sexual too. Speak out, don't suffer in silence.

Telephone: 0800 999 5428

Email: [email protected]

LGBT Domestic Abuse Partnership (for London) -Made up of 4 LGBT agencies who each provide different services for LGBT victims/survivors of domestic abuse. With one phone call, you will be linked in with Galop, Stonewall Housing, LGBT Switchboard, and London Friend. 

Telephone: 0207 704 2040

Email: [email protected]

Online self-referral form

Switchboard - The country’s dedicated LGBTQ+ helpline that’s been running for decades and is staffed by LGBTQ+ volunteers. It’s still open during the coronavirus crisis, 10am - 10pm 0300 330 0630.