Breaking the Silence : Professionals of Hera Speak Out About Lesbian Battering

J. Thompson

In heterosexist world, the unique needs of homosexuals are often ignored. Lesbians in the area of intimate partner violence (IPV) are no different. Most organizations that work with IPV only provide services for heterosexual women. However, lesbian battering occurs at almost the same rate as in heterosexual relationships. Therefore, this study seeks to assess if service providers and the organizations that work with domestic abuse in the Netherlands are altering their structure (i.e. health programs, services, attitude) to incorporate lesbian battering and if those alterations carry over in practice to the shelters. Through personal interviews and a questionnaire this study assesses the openness in attitude and practice of one organization in particular, Hera. The discrepancy between a welcoming attitude towards Holebi clients and the actuality of what services Hera offers them, the need for extra training to work with Holebi clients, the clash of acceptance of Holebi clients between Hera employees and current clients, the result of the dissipation of Holebi employees within Hera, and suggestions for better marketing techniques are all explained.