Help for male victims

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Domestic abuse can be a particularly taboo subject for male victims. You may feel as if you're the only man who has ever experienced domestic violence, but you're definitely not alone.

The 2001/02 British Crime Survey found that 19% of domestic violence incidents reported involved male victims - with just under half of these being committed by a female abuser.

It may be hard to admit to yourself and to others that this is happening to you, but it's not your fault and you can get help.

Are there differences in how men and women experience domestic abuse?

There are both similarities and differences. Some of the responses to violence from a partner are the same. Whoever you are, being hurt by someone you love and trust can be devastating. You may feel bewildered and confused. You may wonder if it's your fault. You may feel too ashamed or embarrassed to tell anyone. If you do tell, you may find that no one believes you or that your abuse is trivialised. You should never let such ignorance stop you from seeking help.

There are also important differences that can often be lost when we assume that what we know about women experiencing domestic violence automatically applies to male victims too. For example, many abused men wrongly feel that they aren't 'real men' if they admit to having experienced abuse. Remember - men have exactly the same rights as women to be safe in their own homes.

All statutory services (such as the Police, Crown Prosecution Service, Housing Department and Social Services) have a duty to provide services to all - male or female. Men are protected by exactly the same laws as women. Anyone who has assaulted another person, regardless of the gender of either, can be prosecuted.

As with women, if you are a man experiencing domestic abuse and you need emergency help, please call 999. If you report domestic abuse, you can be assured that Sussex Police will take your report seriously and do everything possible to support you. Other sources of help include:

The Mankind Initiative: Supports male victims of domestic abuse and domestic violence. Call 01823 334244.

Mens Advice Line: Advises and supports men in abusive relationships. Call 0808 801 0327.

WORTH Services: an Independent Domestic (IDVA) Service here to support people affected by domestic abuse in West Sussex. Call 01283 600300.

Domestic Abuse Outreach Service: (Chichester district) Advises and supports female or male victims of domestic abuse. Call 07954 688 469.

Broken Rainbow: Supports lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people experiencing domestic violence. Call 0300 999 5428.

CRI: (Crime Reduction Initiative) Works with individuals, families and communities across England and Wales that are affected by drugs, alcohol, crime, homelessness, domestic abuse, and antisocial behaviour. Call 01273 677 019.

Action on Elder Abuse: Works to protect, and prevent the abuse of, vulnerable older adults. Call 0808 8088141.

National Centre for Domestic Violence (NCDV): Offers free legal support to any survivor of domestic violence, by helping individuals get emergency injunctions, usually within 24 hours. Call 0844 8044 999.

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Adur Community Alarm and Telecare Service: Provides a small portable trigger and alarm unit, for 24 hour, 365 day cover, for people who are vulnerable through domestic violence. Call 01273 263390.

National Stalking Helpline: provides guidance and information to anybody who is currently or has previously been affected by harassment or stalking. Call 0300 636 0300.

Victim Support: Offers help to anyone affected by crime - victims, witnesses, friends and family. This can include emotional support, information and practical help, either over the phone or face-to-face. Call 0845 3030 900.

Next: Other organisations that can help - support for female victims; family or friends. Help for abusers.