With the introduction of the Domestic Abuse Commissioner in 2019, there has extensive social media focus on domestic abuse and the requirement to highlight the prevalence of this within society, to ensure everyone has access to domestic abuse services. This is commonly portrayed, or implied, as men abusing women, however domestic abuse is a factor in all relationships. This also effects men being on the receiving end of abuse, whether this be from a woman or another man.
Topics to be answered in this article
How common is domestic abuse on men?
The Crime Survey for England and Wales and police recorded crime, for the year ending March 2023, shows an estimated 751,000 men aged 16 years and over experienced domestic abuse in the previous year. Domestic abuse frequently goes unreported; therefore, this is not necessarily an accurate reflection of the number of men subjected to such behaviour.
It is acknowledged that domestic violence against women is around twice as common, however the above figure represents 3.2% of the population of men in this timeframe, which is still significant.
Why is the issue of domestic abuse on men often overlooked?
There are many reasons why this is not discussed as openly as domestic abuse towards a female. Men can experience fear that they will not be taken seriously. There is a common assumption that men are physically stronger than women, therefore will their claim be believed.
Many men also feel unable to disclose the abuse as they will not be considered a “real man”. The perception that they must be strong and unemotional can deter men from reporting such abuse, with society putting a lot of pressure on men to act strong and sort out problems on their own. If a man is in a same-sex relationship, there can be the added challenge of having to come out to services and explain how they are being abused by another man.
What support exists for abused men?
There are a number of services available for men to access, however as this is an issue that is not discussed as openly as domestic abuse services for women, they are not commonly known.
The following services are available:
- Man Kind – The first charity in Great Britain to support male victims. They offer direct support to male victims through a national helpline, aiming to support male victims to enable them to escape from the situation they are in, providing information, support, and signposting to local services.
- Mens Advice Line – Helpline to support men experiencing domestic abuse, offering confidential advice, non-judgemental support and practical information and help.
- Refuge – Refuge primarily supports women and their children, however it is understood how difficult it can be to be a man experiencing domestic abuse and enforces the message that support is available and you are not alone. They believe no person should live in fear of abuse.
- Zero Suicide Alliance – Aim to empower, educate, and equip individuals and organisations to support suicide awareness and prevention.
- Dads UnLimited –Supporting male victims of domestic abuse and their emotional safety, available to men with, or without, children.
What to do if you are being abused
Many National organisations exist to offer support and help in situations of domestic abuse, such as the charities identified above. If you are in immediate danger, you should always call 999.
Seek help, it is vital to understand that you are not alone and to gain support from those around you, not allowing the situation to get worse. Reach out to friends and family and take action to ensure your safety. Inform neighbours who can act on your behalf if they feel you are in danger.
Speak with your GP, consider how you can reduce the risk to yourself, report incidents, and fund someone you trust to talk it through.
The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 “aims to ensure that victims have the confidence to come forward and report their experiences, safe in the knowledge that the state will do everything it can, both to support them and their children and pursue the abuser”.
How can Goughs help?
At Goughs we have a dedicated team of domestic abuse solicitors who can offer personal support and practical guidance to assist you in escaping the cycle of abuse.
We can assist in obtaining a Non-Molestation Order or Civil Injunction and are accustomed to dealing with all aspects of family law where there has been domestic abuse.
Domestic abuse for male victims is being discussed more frequently and it is vital to know this is occurring. 3.2% is a significant proportion and this only reflects the incidents reported. Male abuse is not uncommon. This affects men of all backgrounds, colour, and sexuality. It is crucial to know that men experiencing domestic abuse are not alone and there is help and support available.
