Loving Me is a charity providing refuge for trans and non-binary domestic abuse survivors
BY YASMIN VINCE, IMAGE BY INKDROP
Loving Me, a national trans and non-binary domestic abuse service and refuge provider, has predicted that significantly more of the trans+ community will need its services, after the UK Supreme Court ruled that the definition of a woman is “biological”.
The charity anticipates the highly criticised ruling, which legally defined the terms “women” and “sex” as “biological women” and “biological sex”, will lead to other domestic abuse services becoming hesitant to engage in trans-inclusive training. Domestic abuse refuges are often women-only spaces, and in light of the recent ruling, some organisations may decide that means trans women should not be admitted.
Yet, while charities come to terms with the uncertain repercussions of the ruling, trans+ individuals are still suffering from domestic abuse. “Trans and non-binary people face significant levels of domestic abuse,” said Moss, the CEO of Loving Me. “I am gravely concerned that as a result of the ruling trans victims will be turned away from services and this puts lives at risk.”
A report from the end of 2024 revealed that trans people are more likely to experience domestic abuse than cis people, with almost one in 10 trans people reported to have experiences of abuse, compared to just over four in 100 of cis people.
On top of the increased demand for explicitly trans+ inclusive spaces like those provided by Loving Me, the charity is already dealing with catastrophic levels of mental distress amongst its clients and expects the current climate to only make this worse. Amanda Elwen, founder of Loving Me, said: “This past week has been emotionally taxing for our community and the services we offer.”
“However, I am optimistic that we will navigate this situation thoughtfully, always prioritising the needs and voices of those we serve,” Amanda continued. Loving Me is currently seeking funding to help expand the vital work they are doing, and donations can be made here.
If you or someone you know is trans+ or non-binary and is experiencing domestic abuse, you can get in touch with Loving Me for support via the website or contacting help@lovingme.uk or calling 07902478958.
DIVA magazine celebrates 31 years in print in 2025. If you like what we do, then get behind LGBTQIA media and keep us going for another generation. Your support is invaluable.