Reach out to Ugandan LGBTQ+ support organisations

Remember that you are not alone, and there are people and organisations dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ individuals facing IPV in Uganda. By reaching out for help and taking steps to prioritise your safety and well-being, you can begin to navigate through this difficult situation. 

There are organisations in Uganda that provide support and resources specifically for the LGBTQ+ community. These organisations understand the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and can offer guidance and assistance in situations of IPV. They often operate discreetly to protect the privacy and safety of those seeking help. At the end of this document we have listed relevant materials from LGBTQ+ organisations on IPV. 

Utilise Online Resources

 In environments where seeking help openly may be risky, online resources can be invaluable. Look for online platforms, forums, or support groups where LGBTQ+ individuals share experiences and offer support to one another. These spaces can provide a sense of community and solidarity, as well as practical advice on navigating IPV situations.

Seek Assistance from International Organizations

There are international organisations that focus on LGBTQ+ rights and provide support to individuals facing discrimination or violence due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. These organisations may offer helplines, online chat services, or other forms of support that can be accessed anonymously.

Consider Safety Measures

Prioritise safety when seeking help. If discussing your situation openly could put you at risk, take precautions to protect your identity and privacy. Use secure communication channels, such as encrypted messaging apps or anonymous hotlines, and avoid sharing identifiable information unless you trust the recipient.

Document Evidence 

If it's safe to do so, document instances of IPV, including dates, times, and descriptions of incidents. This documentation can be helpful if you decide to seek legal assistance or protection in the future.

Explore Legal Options

While legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals may be limited in Uganda, there may still be legal avenues available for seeking protection from IPV. Consult with legal experts or advocacy organisations that specialise in LGBTQ+ rights to explore your options and understand the potential risks and challenges involved.

Prioritise Self-Care

Dealing with IPV can take a toll on your mental and emotional well-being. Make self-care a priority and seek out supportive friends, family members, or mental health professionals who can provide emotional support and guidance.

Relevant reading materials

IceBreakers Uganda 

Icebreakers Uganda provides safe spaces, psychosocial support and education about sexual health and human rights for sexual minorities in Uganda.

Research on Mental health and Violence among LGBTQ persons.  https://voice.global/assets/2019/11/InvisibleScars.pdf

Mental Health Guide. https://www.kuchutimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/NOT-ALONE-GUIDE.pdf

HealthCare Discrimination against LGBTQ Persons. https://www.academia.edu/36927425/_Even_If_They_Spit_At_You_Dont_Be_Surprised_Healthcare_Discrimination_Against_Ugandas_Sexual_and_Gender_Minorities

HER Internet

Reports on online violence and sexual abuse among LBQ women. https://www.herinternet.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Research-report-The-Trends-and-Impact-of-TAV-among-LBQ_FSW.pdf

Handbook on how to understand and deal with online violence.

 Her Internet Handbook on Decoding Online Violence 

Non Consensual Sharing of Nude Images. https://www.herinternet.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/NCII-Press-Release.pdf

Social media outing.
https://www.herinternet.org/social-media-outing/

Identity based violence online by strangers.
https://www.herinternet.org/identity-based-violence/

FARUG

FARUG GBV Helpline for LBQ Women: +256757 709096

FARUG Drop-In Center:  farugdropincentre@gmail.com

FARUG Wellness Journals for LBQ Women
https://faruganda.org/wellness-journals/

Sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) for Queer Women. https://faruganda.org/2021/05/27/queering-srhr-a-guide-for-lbq-womxn/

KuchuTimes Media Group 

Bombastic Magazine covering stories of IPV and Mental Health for LGBTQ Persons
Bombastic Magazine

The reality of IPV in same sex male relationships
https://www.kuchutimes.com/2018/10/the-reality-of-intimate-partner-violence-in-same-sex-male-relationships/

IPV among queer women in northern Uganda

https://www.kuchutimes.com/2022/04/intimate-partner-violence-among-queer-women-in-northern-uganda/

Therapy can help end IPV
https://www.kuchutimes.com/2021/11/therapy-can-help-end-intimate-partner-violence/

FEM Alliance

Report on the Prevalence of IPV in LBQ/WSW relationships https://www.kuchutimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/18-12-19-Final-FEMA-Prevalence-IPV-among-LBT_WSW.pdf

Emergency Helplines by Convening For Equality

Rapid Response Toll-Free: 

0800100093
0800348350
0800348349
0800348348
0800220610
0800339339
0800358358
0800130683

Rapid Response Non Toll-Free: 

256764508050
256708199178
254710572979
256706536303
256773662147
256200990600