Responding to & Supporting LGBTIQ+ Clients
Tracks
Ballroom 1
| Monday, November 27, 2023 |
| 2:30 PM - 3:50 PM |
Overview
Deborah Costello, Deborah Costello Consulting & Sandra Norman, Living Proud
Speaker
Ms Deborah Costello
Founder/owner
Deborah Costello Consulting
Responding to & Supporting LGBTIQ+ Clients
Abstract
The 90-minute Masterclass will provide a brief introduction to working inclusively with LGBTIQ+ clients who are experiencing FDV or IPV.
Why is this needed?
Most FDV/IPV response services are primarily designed to support heterosexual women experiencing violence or abuse from their male partners. However, we know that LGBTIQ+ people experience similar if not greater levels of FDV/IPV.
While there are a small number of LGBTIQ+ specialist services in some states, most of the country does not have access to these. So, most LGBTIQ+ people (men, trans and gender diverse people) do not have any service they can access. Cisgender women (lesbians or bisexuals) can technically access the existing mainstream services but may not feel comfortable to do so or the staff may not feel equipped to understand their unique needs.
This results in many LGBTIQ+ people not receiving any support and potentially staying in abusive and dangerous relationships.
Who is this for?
The main target group for the workshop is people working in mainstream FDV support and response services, looking to increase their knowledge in this area.
What to expect from the workshop:
•A safe space to ask questions and brainstorm appropriate and inclusive ways of working with LGBTIQ+ people
•Information on current terminology and language which is inclusive and respectful of LGBTIQ+ people
•Opportunities to discuss ‘real-life’ examples and practice delivering appropriate responses to LGBTIQ+ clients
•Opportunity to explore how FDV services can make their organisations more inclusive through signalling, policy, and practice changes
•Practical tips for FDV staff on how to make their services more inclusive
Why is this needed?
Most FDV/IPV response services are primarily designed to support heterosexual women experiencing violence or abuse from their male partners. However, we know that LGBTIQ+ people experience similar if not greater levels of FDV/IPV.
While there are a small number of LGBTIQ+ specialist services in some states, most of the country does not have access to these. So, most LGBTIQ+ people (men, trans and gender diverse people) do not have any service they can access. Cisgender women (lesbians or bisexuals) can technically access the existing mainstream services but may not feel comfortable to do so or the staff may not feel equipped to understand their unique needs.
This results in many LGBTIQ+ people not receiving any support and potentially staying in abusive and dangerous relationships.
Who is this for?
The main target group for the workshop is people working in mainstream FDV support and response services, looking to increase their knowledge in this area.
What to expect from the workshop:
•A safe space to ask questions and brainstorm appropriate and inclusive ways of working with LGBTIQ+ people
•Information on current terminology and language which is inclusive and respectful of LGBTIQ+ people
•Opportunities to discuss ‘real-life’ examples and practice delivering appropriate responses to LGBTIQ+ clients
•Opportunity to explore how FDV services can make their organisations more inclusive through signalling, policy, and practice changes
•Practical tips for FDV staff on how to make their services more inclusive
Biography
Deborah is a Lived Experience Survivor/Advocate. With over 30 years’ experience in the community and government sectors, now runs her own consulting business. She has knowledge across many areas including injury and violence prevention and diversity and inclusion. Deborah has significant experience in delivering training to range of participants.
Sandra has worked in LGBTIQ services for over 20 years. Her background includes youth homelessness, FDV, aged care, sexual health, and mental health. She works for Living Proud WA training peer support volunteers and delivering workshops on LGBTIQ inclusion, suicide intervention and sexuality and disability across the state.
