Drive to tackle same-sex violence

Over the last 12 months there have been 400 reported incidents of same-sex domestic violence in West Yorkshire – on average more than one victim per day.

However, the reporting of domestic violence remains low and police say there is a real concern that same-sex domestic violence is reported even less.

During the last year in West Yorkshire there were three same-sex domestic murders. This is one more than the number of women who were murdered by their male partners or ex-partners.

In these cases, despite indications that there was a history of domestic violence, none were reported to police.

Police have teamed up with Broken Rainbow UK – the national Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transgender Domestic Violence charity, the sexual health project Yorkshire Mesmac, the Gay Police Association and diversity champion Stonewall – to raise awareness.

The campaign, called Same Sex Domestic Violence, We Won't Turn Our Back, uses images of a man and a woman with injuries, bruises, cuts and footprints on their backs.

Yesterday an awareness campaign was launched at the Leeds Gay Pride Event, while posters and leaflets will appear around West Yorkshire.

The reasons for under-reporting may include a fear of not being believed and concerns that the incident will be dismissed by the police. It also appears that victims, particularly men, won't admit that they are being abused out of embarrassment.

The campaign aims to highlight what help is out there for victims and offenders as well as trying to bring down some of the barriers some victims may see.

Det Insp Granville Ward said: "We do believe that same sex domestic violence is under reported which is real concern to us.

"It is important that victims know where to go for help or who they can contact for advice and that positive action is taken against offenders.

"We are aware that among victims of domestic violence there is a fear of not being believed or that there will be a dismissive or homophobic response from police. I want to reassure everyone that this is not the case. Domestic violence is serious and we do not want people suffering in silence."

The chairman of the Gay Police Association, Pc Matthew Humphrys, said: "Domestic violence is a hidden violence that affects people deeply and its affects can last long after the end of a relationship.

"It is important for anyone suffering such violence, which can be mental, physical, emotional or financial to feel confident that the police can and will help. We understand the complex issues that victims face when reporting such abuse. I ask anyone suffering violence to trust us in helping them to break free."

A spokesman for Broken Rainbow UK said: "We are extremely pleased to see the police taking a positive step to give the message that same-sex domestic violence is just as serious, and survivors coming forward will be treated respectfully, and extended the same protection and support that heterosexual survivors are given.

He said people faced additional barriers, prejudice and homophobia when attempting to seek help with no specialist services, and little understanding of community issues in relation to abuse.

"It is essential that agencies step up to protect same sex survivors of domestic violence.

"Domestic violence is a devastating crime. We are therefore pleased to be part of a campaign to raise awareness of same sex domestic violence in an effort to increase safety and save lives."