In mainstream media, domestic violence is often depicted an issue concerning heterosexual relationships, but intimate partner violence is a very real concern in the LGBTQ+ community as well.
People who identify as LGBTQ+ may be more at risk to intimate partner violence in some situations according to NCDAV.org, an American anti-domestic violence organization.
Additionally, This Statistics Canada report reveals that more incidents of domestic violence were reported among same sex couples than heterosexual couples between the years of 2009 and 2017.
Domestic violence is a dangerous situation to be living in, for all genders in all types of relationships.
If you, or someone you know, is experiencing domestic violence in a LGBTQ+ relationship, never discount the gravity of the situation. Regardless of gender or sexual identity, abuse is abuse.
If you aren’t sure if you are experiencing, or are at risk of experiencing, intimate partner violence, ask yourself the questions on this checklist.
What to do when experiencing domestic violence
You are not alone and there is help available. In addition to calling the numbers below, it is highly advisable to create a safety plan.
Depending on your daily habits and whether or not there are children involved, a safety plan will look different for everyone.
Phone numbers
Emergency: 911
Non-emergency: (902)490-5020
Halifax Regional Police Victim Services: (902)490-5300
Bryony House Women’s Shelter Crisis Line: (902)422-7650
Legal Aid Family Law: (902)480-3450 or (902)420-2390
Transition House NS Women’s Shelter Network: 1 855 225 0220