Help & Support
Our IDVA (Independent Domestic Violence Advocate) provides comprehensive support to individuals experiencing domestic abuse in the LGBTQ+ community. Our highly trained IDVAs (Independent Domestic Violence Advocate) offer individual support on a wide range of issues related to domestic abuse, including questions about relationships, information on support resources within the community and assistance with the reporting and criminal justice process.
In addition, we host a weekly drop-in every Wednesday from 5-7pm Below @ Arcobaleno, Kemptown BN2 1EA.
This is a safe and inclusive space within our community where you can receive peer-to-peer support
and speak to a qualified LGBTQ+ Domestic Abuse support worker.
We also offer a six-week course on LGBTQ+ Relationships and domestic abuse. You can sign up for the waiting list via the form at the bottom of this page. This course explores the issues surrounding domestic abuse within the LGBTQ+ community, including the impact of societal attitudes and the intersectionality of various factors that can affect our community.
This six week course is intended for people who have left their abusive relationship.
For help & assistance speaking to to someone about an ongoing abusive situation, see the following forms:
IDVA: What support do we provide?
Who Can Access Support from the IDVA Service at Across Rainbows?
At Across Rainbows, we offer support through our IDVA service to members of the LGBTQ+ community who are 18 years or older. We are committed to being inclusive and welcoming to all members of the community. Our goal is to provide a safe and supportive space where everyone can feel comfortable discussing their concerns.
We understand that every person's experience is unique and we are here to listen without judgment. Our team is dedicated to providing the support you need, in every way we can. Our service is located at Below @ Arcobaleno in Kemptown, Brighton. We have an
accessible space on the ground floor, and we are happy to accommodate any accessibility needs with advance notice.
Additionally, we welcome friendly and well-behaved dogs in our building, so please feel free to bring your furry friend with you to your appointments if it helps you feel more comfortable.
How Does Confidentiality Work at Across Rainbows?
At Across Rainbows, we strive to create a safe and supportive environment where you can feel understood and included. We understand that confidentiality is a crucial aspect of building trust with our clients, and we take it seriously.
However, there may be situations where we have to pass on information to ensure your safety or the safety of others. In these cases, we will always strive to inform you and obtain your consent before sharing any information. However, there are exceptions when we are
legally required to disclose information without your consent.
These include:
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If we become aware that a child or vulnerable adult is at risk of harm.
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If we are made aware of a crime or act of terrorism.
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If we believe that you are at risk of harm to yourself or others.
We understand that these situations can be sensitive and challenging, but we will always do our best to communicate with you in a transparent and respectful manner. Our priority is your safety and well-being, and we will take all necessary steps to ensure it.
Speak to a qualified LGBTQ+ Domestic abuse worker
LGBTQ+ IDVA Support: self-Referral Form
Speak to a qualified LGBTQ+ Domestic abuse worker
LGBTQ+ IDVA Support: Professional Referral Form