Support for male victims of domestic violence

Male victims of domestic violence

What is domestic violence?

Domestic violence includes a range of behaviours: it can be physical, psychological, sexual or financial abuse. It takes place within an intimate relationship and forms a pattern of bullying and controlling behaviour. It also takes place between family members.

If you are forced to alter your behaviour because you are frightened of your partner's reaction, it is likely you are being abused.

Anyone can experience domestic violence - it can happen in all kinds of relationships, regardless of age, race, sex, sexuality, disability, wealth, gender identity and lifestyle. It is rarely a one-off event. Physical and sexual abuse tends to get more severe and happen more often over time.

Domestic violence can affect men in heterosexual or same-sex relationships.

The video below is from Dudley's community safety partnership 'Safe and Sound'.

Domestic violence is unacceptable

People experiencing domestic violence are not to blame. The abuser is 100% responsible for their behaviour. Violence and abuse is a choice the abuser makes.

Find more information about getting help here.

Men's Advice Line and you

The Men's Advice Line is available for people living in England, Wales and Scotland. The helpline is funded by the Home Office and the Scottish Government and managed by Respect.

We know how difficult it is for victims of domestic violence to know who to approach for help, advice and support. You may feel that no one will believe you and that no one will take your fears seriously.

The Men's Advice Line has trained staff who will listen to you without judging you and look at ways of helping you, offering you:

A listening ear and emotional support
Time to talk through your experiences - we will not rush you
Information that is relevant to your situation, this may include contact details of organisations offering legal advice, housing advice, mental health services, domestic violence units, child contact and parenting issues, immigration problems, services for gay and bi men etc
Practical advice on things you can do yourself to become safer

What's your relationship like at the moment?

Does your partner:

Humiliate you, call you names or make fun of you in a way that is designed to hurt you?
Threaten you that you will never see your children again?
Threaten you with violence or hit, kick or throw things at you?

Or do you:

Change your behaviour or your appearance so your partner doesn't get angry?
Feel scared, anxious or like you are ‘walking on eggshells'?
Cut yourself off from your friends or family?

If you answered yes to some or all of those questions you may be experiencing domestic violence. You can find out more here.