Abstract

In this chapter, we consider the impacts of public sector funding cuts within the conjoined narratives of austerity and the ‘Big Society’ on services for those experiencing domestic violence and abuse in LGB and/or T communities. We draw on qualitative interviews undertaken in an evaluation of a regional development project building capacity to respond to LGB and/or T survivors in existing mainstream and specialist DVA services. Interviewees explain how their work—especially of LGBT organisations—is increasingly governed by prioritisation with the loss of spaces for development; and point to similar trends amongst their partners and a focus on ‘generic’ rather than specialist services. Such evidence supports the biofinancialisation thesis wherein social services are assessed economically rather than for their utility in deciding their success.