Phase 2 of LGBTQ+ abuse project launched in Cork

A survey has been launched exploring the prevalence of intimate partner abuse (IPA) in lesbian, bisexual, trans, non-binary, and queer relationships in Cork.

Launched by domestic abuse support service, OSS Cork, in partnership with LINQ Ireland, the survey forms part of phase two of the service’s reachOUT project which started late last year.

Phase two seeks to develop support and referral services for LBQ+ women (trans and non-binary inclusive) who may experience abuse and control in their relationships.

According to international research cited by OSS Cork, LBQ+ individuals are equally at risk of abuse and control in their intimate relationships as heterosexual women, but how this abuse is carried out and experienced can be quite different.

OSS Cork said that evidence suggests there is a real need for specialised services, but that existing services often lack awareness and capacity to identify and address specific experiences and needs.

Recognising this gap in provision, OSS Cork sought funding from Cuan to continue the work of the reachOUT project.

Phase one of the project, launched in 2024, set out to measure the prevalence of intimate partner abuse among gay, bisexual, and trans (GBT+) men.

Over 50% of gay and bisexual men surveyed in phase one reported experiencing physical, sexual, or emotional violence from a partner or ex-partner. Specifically, two in five reported physical assault.

The 2024 survey also found that, despite high rates of abuse, victims rarely used mainstream domestic violence services. Major barriers included historical stigma and mistrust of institutional authorities, fear of homophobia/transphobia, and a general lack of awareness that male/same-sex victims could access these supports.

The phase two reachOUT survey, launched this week to coincide with Cork Community Pride celebrations, is gathering the views and experiences of LBQ+ community members, with focus groups and interviews also being carried out.

All information gathered will inform the development of pathways and resources tailored to the needs of the LBQ+ community.

The reachOUT project is led by Dr Angela O’Connell, head of OSS Cork, who has a strong background in social inclusion research with a particular focus on LGBTQ+ issues.

OSS Cork provides a non-judgemental support service to all adults who are subjected to domestic abuse in Cork city and county. It the only specialised domestic violence service in the Cork region to work with all genders.

Visit osscork.com to take the latest survey and to learn more about the reachOUT project.

The OSS Cork Freephone helpline is 1800-497497.