Women are disproportionally affected by Domestic Abuse. However, did you know that according to the Office of National Statistics, in the UK, approximately 695,000 men reported experiencing Domestic Abuse in the year ending March 2021?
Domestic Abuse affects all genders, yet it feels like male victims still face many challenges such as stigma and access to support. In this short article, I will focus on male victims of Domestic Abuse, specifically in the context of the United Kingdom. The aim of this is to raise awareness about this important issue and to encourage a more inclusive approach to addressing Domestic Abuse.
Like all victims of Domestic Abuse, the main types of abuse a male victim will face includes physical violence, emotional/psychological abuse, sexual abuse, and coercive control. However, there still seems to be a stigma around it for men even though the consequences and impact of this can be the same for men as it is women. For more information on types of abuse men can experience, go to https://mankind.org.uk/help-for-victims/types-of-domestic-abuse/
Male victims also face some unique challenges when it comes to seeking help. Social stigma, cultural expectations of masculinity, and fear of not being taken seriously contribute to the under-reporting and reluctance to seek support. Additionally, the limited availability of gender-specific services further compounds the problem. Many shelters and helplines are primarily designed to cater to female victims, which may inadvertently marginalise male victims and hinder their access to appropriate support.
In recent years, efforts have been made to improve the recognition and support available to male victims of Domestic Abuse. The Domestic Abuse Bill, passed in the UK in 2021 acknowledges that both men and women can be victims and perpetrators of Domestic Abuse. This legislation aims to provide better protection and support for all survivors, regardless of gender. Moreover, organisations such as Mankind Initiative and Respect UK offer specialised support services specifically tailored for male victims of Domestic Abuse.
The prevalence of Domestic Abuse against men in the UK should not be disregarded or overlooked. By highlighting the statistics and shedding light on the challenges faced by male victims, we hope to foster a more inclusive approach in combating Domestic Abuse. Greater awareness, education, and the availability of support services for all genders are essential steps in ensuring that all victims receive the help they need. It is only through collective effort that we can create a society that addresses Domestic Abuse in a comprehensive and compassionate manner.
If you need to access support regarding this issues, please go to; https://mankind.org.uk/help-for-victims/what-you-can-do/
If you would like to find out more about how RSMS address domestic abuse, please contact jonathan.hussey@rsg.ltd
