Violence in same-sex relationships
This content applies to England only.
Housing laws vary between England and Scotland. Get advice relating to Scotland
Domestic abuse and violence can also happen in lesbian or gay relationships. Some of your rights will depend on whether you are in a registered civil partnership or just cohabiting.
Rights
If you are in a civil partnership, you will have the same rights as a married heterosexual couple. If you are cohabiting, you will have the same rights as a cohabiting heterosexual couple.
Options
If you are a gay man or lesbian who has experienced domestic abuse:
- you have the same right to apply to the council as homeless if you have had to leave your home
- you can take legal action against the perpetrator (eg apply for an Occupation Order, Non-molestation Order, or an injunction)
- you can report the perpetrator to the police.
However, you could find that the agencies that you approach for assistance do not take your situation seriously. This should not be the case, and if this happens you should contact Broken Rainbow for advice.
Refuges
If you are a lesbian and need emergency accommodation, you will be able to stay at a refuge for women. However, there is little refuge provision for men (including gay men) who have experienced domestic abuse. If you need emergency accommodation, you should apply to the council as homeless.
