Resources for LGBTQ2S+ Survivors of Domestic Violence in Vancouver

LGBTQ2S+ individuals in Vancouver experiencing domestic violence have access to specialized and inclusive resources. This guide highlights key supports.

LGBTQ2S+ individuals experience intimate partner violence at rates equal to or higher than heterosexual and cisgender peers. In addition to common dynamics of abuse, LGBTQ2S+ survivors often face unique barriers—homophobia, transphobia, isolation from family, fears of outing, and lack of understanding from mainstream services. Vancouver’s vibrant queer community has developed inclusive, affirming resources to support survivors on their path to safety and healing.

• Affirmation and Safety: Staff are trained to respect diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.
• Trauma-Informed Care: Understanding the intersections of stigma, minority stress, and trauma enhances support quality.
• Confidentiality and Choice: Survivors retain control over disclosures, ensuring privacy and self-determination.
• Culturally Competent Referrals: Connections to queer-friendly legal, medical, and housing services.

• Overview: BC’s Queer, Trans, and Two-Spirit Resource Centre offers peer support, referrals, and educational workshops.
• Services: Peer-led counseling, support circles, legal and housing referrals, and a comprehensive resource library.
• Access: Drop in at 1170 Bute Street or visit qmunity.ca for program schedules.

• Overview: A feminist, survivor-run organization serving all women—including trans women—impacted by sexual and domestic violence.
• Services: 24-hour crisis line, emergency shelter, peer support groups, and legal advocacy.
• Access: Call 604-872-8212 or visit their website for more information.

• Overview: Trauma-informed services for women and gender-diverse survivors of sexualized violence, explicitly inclusive of LGBTQ2S+ needs.
• Services: 24-hour support line (604-255-6344), individual and group counseling, advocacy, and community education.
• Access: Call or explore wavaw.ca for program details and walk-in hours.

• Overview: Research and community partnerships inform resources on violence prevention and health equity for trans, non-binary, and Two-Spirit communities.
• Services: Publications, online toolkits, and referrals to queer-affirming services.
• Access: Visit cgshe.ca to download resources and find partner organizations.

• Overview: Some VPD and RCMP Victim Services units now include LGBTQ2S+ liaison officers trained in queer-inclusive response and safety planning.
• Access: Call VictimLink BC at 1-800-563-0808 and request an LGBTQ2S+–trained outreach worker.

• Overview: Many Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCCs) and psychologists advertise LGBTQ2S+ competency and trauma expertise.
• Finding Providers: Use provincial directories (e.g., BCACC, Psychology Today) and filter for “LGBTQ2S+ affirming” and “trauma-informed.”

• Overview: Smaller grassroots groups offer confidential meetups for survivors to share experiences and build solidarity.
• Examples: Queer Survivors’ Circle, Trans Lifeline, and pop-up healing circles at local community centres.
• Access: Check qmunity.ca/events, social media pages, or inquire through local LGBTQ2S+ centres.

• Crisis Lines: For immediate emotional support, dial VictimLink BC (1-800-563-0808) or Vancouver Rape Relief (604-872-8212).
• Safety Planning: Work with LGBTQ2S+–affirming advocates to tailor your personal safety plan.
• Legal Protection: Seek Protection Orders through Legal Aid BC and verify queer-friendly family law clinics.
• Self-Care: Engage in identity-affirming practices—community art, Two-Spirit cultural gatherings, or mindfulness groups.