The Hidden Reality
When most people hear “domestic abuse,” they often picture female victims. But abuse doesn’t discriminate — thousands of men in the UK experience it every year.
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), around 757,000 men in England and Wales experienced domestic abuse in 2023, meaning roughly one in three victims are male. (ONS – Domestic abuse prevalence and trends, England and Wales)
Despite this, men are far less likely to report abuse or seek help, often due to stigma, shame, or fear of not being believed.
Recognising the Signs
Abuse isn’t always physical. It can take many forms, including:
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Emotional abuse: constant criticism, humiliation, or manipulation
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Coercive control: isolating you from friends/family, controlling finances, or access to children
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Verbal abuse: shouting, name-calling, threats, or intimidation
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Physical abuse: hitting, pushing, throwing objects, or restraining
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Sexual abuse: being forced into sexual activity without consent
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Digital abuse: monitoring messages, posting private content, or threats to share images (revenge porn)
Many men don’t recognise these behaviours as abuse or feel too ashamed to tell anyone. Abuse is never your fault, and help is available.
Why Men Often Don’t Speak Up
Common reasons men don’t report abuse include:
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Fear of being laughed at or not believed
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Worry about losing access to their children
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Belief that there’s no support for men
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Shame or confusion about what’s happening
A 2022 study by the Mankind Initiative found that only 51% of male victims tell anyone about the abuse they experience, and just 11% report it to the police. (Mankind Initiative – Domestic abuse statistics)
Finding Support
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, you don’t have to face it alone. These organisations offer confidential help and guidance:
Men’s Advice Line – A confidential helpline for male victims of domestic abuse.
📞 0808 801 0327 (Mon–Fri, 10am–8pm)
✉️ info@mensadviceline.org.uk
https://mensadviceline.org.uk
Mankind Initiative – Provides support and advice for men experiencing domestic abuse.
📞 01823 334244 (Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm)
https://www.mankind.org.uk
Survivors UK – Supports men who’ve experienced sexual violence or abuse.
https://www.survivorsuk.org
Victim Support – Offers emotional and practical support for anyone affected by crime, including domestic abuse.
https://www.victimsupport.org.uk
Respect UK – Provides information for both victims and those worried about their behaviour.
https://respect.uk.net
If you’re in immediate danger, call 999.
Breaking the Stigma
Men deserve to be heard, believed, and supported. Talking about what’s happening doesn’t make you weak — it makes you brave.
By sharing stories and raising awareness, we can help others recognise the signs earlier and encourage more men to reach out for help.
No one should have to face abuse in silence. You are not alone, and help is out there.