lesbians ending violent relationships

Abuse within lesbian relationships is a crime.  LEAR is here to support.

Gay and Lesbian Switchboard
Phone: (03) 9510 5488 or toll free 1800 631 493

Victorian Women's Refuges and Associated Domestic Violence Services
P.O. Box 58, Deepdene, Vic., 3103
Phone: 0417 343 575 or toll free 1800 811 565 during office hours.

What is LEAR?

LEAR stand for 'Lesbians Ending Abusive Relationships'.  LEAR is made up by a group of women who work in the domestic violence field.  Some of us wok in women's refuges, some of us work as Domestic Violence Outreach workers, and some of us work in other related services.  We are all dedicated to working on the issues involved in woman on woman abuse.  We aim to provide information, referral and support to any women who are interested in, or dealing with these issued.  We provide community education, produce resources and materials, and aim to be accessible to all women.  We encourage any feedback or contributions.

What is Abuse?

Domestic Violence is a widespread problem in our community.  Statistically, it is well known that by far the greater majority of offenders are male.  However, women also perpetrate violence and abuse against other women and children, and this must stop.

Abuse can be any number of the following occurrences:

• Getting put down or embarrassed in front of others

• Being called names or verbally abused

• Being threatened or warned with suicide

• Damage to property

• Hitting, kicking, pushing or slapping

• Being outed

• Sexual humiliation or coercion

• Stalking, and anything else which makes you feel unsafe.

Some Common Myths

• Relationships between women are equal, and therefore cannot be abusive.

• Drugs, alcohol, stress or an abusive childhood are the causes of abuse and violence.

• Abuse & violence only happens in butch/femme relationships

• Violence women are bigger than their partners.

• Domestic violence only occurs in Sado-Masochistic relationships.

These Myths Are Not True.

There are many ways of abusing power, and any woman can be abusive.  Domestic violence is about power and control, and we all choose how to behave, and how to use our power.  If you are being abused, it is NOT your fault.

Remember

• If you are experiencing abuse and/or violence from your partner or ex-partner, help is available.

• You are legally entitled to get an Intervention Order, which prevents you from being harmed or harassed any further

• You can go to a women's refuge if you need to, or can get assistance in finding new accommodation

• You can get information on any other domestic violence support services that you may require.