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Mental or physical abuse by a partner, family arguments for teenagers - these are two common reasons for people finding themselves homeless.
Many of the unique challenges in dealing with LGBT homelessness are detailed in a new brochure by Homeless Link in association with the Albert Kennedy Trust.
‘No straight answers: homelessness and sexuality’, which will be circulated to support agencies and frontline workers, offers tips for improving sensitivity to issues of sexuality and tackling discrimination.
It also advises LGBT homeless people of their rights and how to make sure these are not denied.
Narrow mindedness throughout the system can put people at risk.
For example, gay men seeking sanctuary in a shelter after suffering domestic violence can be exposed to such virulent homophobia that, bereft of any other option, they return to their abuser.
Systems set up to protect heterosexual women from their abusive male partners can collapse when the partner is the same sex. In some instances it is difficult to get acknowledgement that same-sex domestic violence even exists.
For young people forced to leave home after outing themselves, sexuality-explicit bullying and other negative experiences in care and shelters can make sofa surfing or even exchanging sex for a place to sleep seem preferable.
These are young people who are already especially vulnerable. Research shows that LGBT youth are three times more likely to commit suicide, two and a half times more likely to self harm and five times more likely to be medicated for depression.
Jenny Edwards, chief executive of Homeless Link, said: “Partner abuse is one of the most traumatic things that can happen. Being thrown out of your family home for being honest about your sexuality is a shattering experience. Everyone deserves and should expect the support they need to put themselves and their lives back together. We must all work to eliminate ignorance and discrimination against people because of their sexuality.”
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