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Have Your Say: Help Shape LGBTQ+ Domestic Abuse Services in Leeds

The LDVS Voices project is running consultations throughout November 2026 to ensure local domestic violence and abuse services truly reflect and support victim survivors across Leeds. This marks the very first time victim survivors have been invited to directly influence the official service specification before it goes out to tender, with the new service contract beginning in April 2028.Organised in partnership with MESMAC and the Leeds Domestic Violence Service (LDVS), these sessions offer a safe, confidential space for community members to share their views on how local support systems can be improved.

A small group sitting in a circle of chairs in a meeting room with MESMAC HIV-testing banners, talking together.

By Sammy Jacques

In summary

The LDVS Voices project is running consultations throughout November 2026 to ensure local domestic violence and abuse services truly reflect and support victim survivors across Leeds. This marks the very first time victim survivors have been invited to directly influence the official service specification before it goes out to tender, with the new service contract beginning in April 2028.Organised in partnership with MESMAC and the Leeds Domestic Violence Service (LDVS), these sessions offer a safe, confidential space for community members to share their views on how local support systems can be improved.

Why Your Voice Matters

Leeds commissioners are currently reviewing the Domestic Violence and Abuse Service specification. By getting involved, your lived experience will directly shape how future care, resources, and outreach are delivered to build stronger services and safer lives.

To ensure taking part is accessible and your contribution is valued, all participants will receive a £10 voucher for every consultation session attended.

What We Will Discuss

We want to hear your views on the current domestic abuse services provided by LDVS:

  • Does the current service meet your needs?
  • What works well?
  • What barriers make it difficult to access support?
  • How could services be improved for future victim-survivors?

Please Note: This consultation focuses specifically on domestic abuse support services provided through LDVS. We are not seeking feedback on police services, housing services, family courts, or other external agencies. 

What to Expect: A Safe, Confidential Space

Your comfort, privacy, and control over your story are absolute priorities:

  • Participation is Anonymous: Participation is strictly anonymous, and you decide how much or how little you share.
  • No Need to Share Personal Experiences: You will never be asked to talk about the specific abuse you experienced—the discussion focuses entirely on improving future services.
  • Flexible Ways to Join: Choose whichever format feels most comfortable for you:
    • Face-to-face discussions (group or 1-to-1)
    • Online sessions
    • Anonymous online survey
  • A Broad, Inclusive Definition of Abuse: Domestic violence and abuse is not limited to intimate partner violence. It includes abuse by family members (including chosen family), as well as emotional, psychological, financial, and non-physical forms of abuse.

How to Get Involved

If you are an LGBTQ+ victim or survivor interested in taking part, or if you simply want more information before deciding, reach out directly:

Confidentiality is strictly maintained across all communications.