Galop launches UK’s first LGBTQ+ rape and sexual abuse helpline
Galop, the UK’s leading anti-LGBTQ+ abuse charity, has launched the country’s first helpline dedicated to supporting members of the community affected by sexual violence and abuse.
Content warning: This story may include topics that could make some readers feel uncomfortable. More than half (53%) of LGBTQ+ people in the UK have been subjected to sexual violence, research conducted by the charity found.
Survivors who sought support from services not tailored to the LGBTQ+ community often had bad experiences, with 22% of those who reported what happened to them dissatisfied by their experience. “After the judgmental response I never went back and I haven’t accessed any support since then,” one told the charity.
Another said there were “times I felt like I was speaking a foreign language and had to explain some really basic stuff.” READ MORE: Cost of living crisis is forcing more LGBTQ+ victims of abuse to stay with abusers As such, Galop is launching a Rape and Sexual Abuse Helpline to provide essential support to LGBTQ+ victims. “We want LGBT+ victims and survivors to know that we’re here, we understand what you’re going through and help is available,” said Leni Morris, CEO of Galop. “Any LGBT+ survivor calling us can be confident that their call will be answered by a fellow LGBT+ person, who is trained and experienced in working with survivors of abuse and violence.
