Victims of same sex domestic abuse are to be offered extra support by Gwent Police.
The force’s LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bi, and Transexual) liaison officers have undergone extra training to better understand the issue and provide better support through the criminal justice system.
In 2011/12, there were just ten incidents of same sex domestic abuse reported to the police – a figure it says shows people are reluctant to come forward and report it. The force has speculated this may be because of a fear of being ‘outed’ and a fear of the report not being taken seriously.
Gwent Police Chief Constable Carmel Napier, said: “Gwent Police offers extensive support to victims of domestic abuse but the LGBT officer service is tailored to recognise the particular needs and concerns faced by someone in a same sex relationship.
“This service means that victims of same sex domestic abuse are offered additional support from the moment they report a crime. Of course, as with anyone in an intimate relationship and they have concerns about a partner, those in same sex relationships can also apply for disclosure under Clare’s Law.
“If the LGBT officer service gives victims of same sex domestic abuse the confidence to report an incident and follow it through the investigation and court process then that’s a huge positive step in tackling and combating these awful crimes that often remain silent.”
Gwent Police LGBT liaison officers have been in place since December 2010 to provide support and guidance to victims of LGB&T hate crime.
The additional service for same sex domestic abuse victims will be offered alongside the existing support given to victims of domestic abuse in Gwent.