LGBT domestic violence helpline Broken Rainbow facing closure

LGBT charity Broken Rainbow is facing closure, blaming government cuts to domestic violence services.

The charity has been in existence since 2004, offering a unique service that offers support not only to LGBT victims but also the perpetrators of domestic abuse.

The service, which worked closely with Eastenders on their domestic violence storyline between lesbian couple Tina and Tosh last year, says it is “under more demand than ever before” and is facing a huge funding crisis “at a time when the community needs it the most”.

“For our funding not to be renewed or replaced will result in the helpline being closed down.” said Service Delivery Manager Wendy Wilde in a statement. “We’ve supported over five thousand people this year and if we were to close there are very few other services for them to go to and not one that offers national support in the way we do.”

The charity’s Managing Director Jo Harvey Barringer added: “Government cuts on domestic violence services have a huge part to play. Our service is comparatively expensive to run as our calls can take a long time due to us offering case work rather than simply a signposting service.

“Currently almost as many calls meet an engaged tone as a helpline worker because we only have enough funding for one person to answer calls at any time. Often callers are disclosing their abuse for the first time and the reality is that there is often nowhere to signpost people to.

“Decisions like the one to close the men’s refuge by Hammersmith & Fulham are a prime example. The money is just not there to support the demand.”

Broken Rainbow depends on donations and goodwill of its supporters. Donations can be made via their
website and even the smallest amount can make a difference to someone whose life is at risk.

If you want to know more about Broken Rainbow you can visit the charity’s website brokenrainbow.org.uk

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