NCJ Number
255048
Date Published
April 2020
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This brief - one in a series on listening sessions that have discussed the impact of COVID-19 on underserved crime victims - focuses on LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and/or Queer) victims.
Abstract
In addition to traditional discrimination that has led to crimes against LGBTQ+ individuals and barriers to victim services, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to their experiencing higher health disparities than some other population groups. This places them at higher risk of contracting COVID-19 and less success in combatting the virus if infected. The challenge for victim service providers is to improve their services in new and innovative ways. Other topics discussed in the LGBTQ+ listening sessions include the increase in barriers and fears that may occur during the pandemic, specific medical concerns and interruptions in medical and mental health care for LGBTQ+ individuals, historical memories of the AIDS epidemic, the heightening of housing challenges for LGBTQ+ survivors during the pandemic, and the inequality of public benefits for LGBTQ+ victims. Victim service providers who focus on LGBTQ+ populations have noted a lower call/contact rate during the pandemic. The presumption is that many survivors of intimate partner violence are living with their abusers under restricted out-of-house opportunities and contacts. As a result, many victim service providers have shifted to online services that require preregistration or the use of pass codes. Other issues discussed in this brief are the loss of opportunities for continuing education for service providers, new funding sources in the changing times, and the rapid development of new resources.