Who is this service for?
Our domestic abuse service offers support to individuals who are currently at risk of or who have previously experienced domestic abuse whether this is from a partner(s), expartner(s), or family member(s). This service provides practical help and advice, and emotional support for those who have been, or currently are experiencing domestic abuse.
This service is available to all people identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual and/or trans, and anyone falling under the umbrella term of LGBT* such as queer, intersex, pansexual, non-binary or genderfluid, including those questioning their sexual orientation and/or gender identity.
The service is available for people who are living within the Greater Manchester area. You must be aged 16+ to access this service.
We're here if you need us.
What does this service offer?
Domestic Abuse Support
We understand that experiencing abuse can be an extremely difficult part of your life to navigate alone. We are here to listen and will offer you non-judgemental emotional support throughout your time within the service.
In addition to general emotional support we also offer sessions where we can discuss the cycle of abuse and the power and control wheel to help provide you with an understanding of the dynamics of an abusive relationship, how abuse can happen to anybody and hopefully answer any questions you may have about domestic abuse or your situation.
One-to-one support planning and advocacy
Our domestic abuse officers will complete a full support plan with you in order to address any practical needs such as navigating the criminal justice system, applying for civil orders, problems with finances, any housing issues, supporting your children, mental and physical health related issues, and any other additional support needs. They can also act as advocates when required by liaising with other organisations and services to ensure that you are safe and that all necessary support is in place.
Practical Housing Advice
The service also offers practical housing support and advice if you are homeless or at risk of homelessness because of domestic abuse. You will be offered advice and guidance around benefits, housing options, safety and budgeting to ensure long term security.
Individualised safety planning
We can support with creating a personal safety plan for anyone that is currently experiencing domestic abuse. A safety plan is a way of protecting yourself from further abuse by helping you to plan in advance by looking at all the potential risks. We will help you put a plan together that is relevant to your situation and will help to keep yourself safe from any further potential abuse or violence.
LGBT Domestic Abuse Group Programme
We offer all LGBT survivors of domestic abuse an opportunity to attend our 10 week educational group work programme that is designed to support individuals with recovery alongside other survivors. The group is aimed at anybody who has experienced or is currently experiencing domestic abuse who wants to learn more about domestic abuse, develop positive coping strategies and confidence in order to look to the future.
How can this service be accessed?
To refer to this service you should complete the self referral form. For professionals referring to this service, please complete this service to service referral form and email a copy of the DASH RIC you have completed to [email protected].
Or you can contact GALOP’s National LGBTQ+ Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0800 999 5428 10am to 5pm Monday to Friday (Wednesday and Thursday until 8pm) or email [email protected] for advice and support.
"I received support with personal safety issues, considering future relationships, housing issues, accessing local services and information and encouragement about engaging in the community.
Without this support, I would have either given up and/or done myself serious harm.
I am now thriving ,feeling much better, optimistic, independent, and confident because of the professional and well-coordinated holistic service I have been able to access and benefit from.
I take part in a range of creative activities, have a fulfilling social life and support other people through voluntary work. I know that the service is there for me if I need further help in the future. I am not alone."
- Domestic Abuse Service User
