We offer support to male survivors in all our services, with the same trauma-informed, person-centered approach we do for women and non-binary survivors. Whether it happened recently or a long time ago, we are here to listen and provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you.
Anyone can experience sexual violence, regardless of gender and background. The impact of sexual violence and abuse on the lives of boys and men can be just as wide-ranging and long-term as for other survivors.
Social attitudes about male survivors and legal definitions of some sexual crimes may make you doubt whether what happened to you was abuse. We want to assure you that what happened was not your fault and you are worthy of support. Having experienced sexual violence does not make you less of a man, nor does being a man make what happened to you less serious.
There is a lot of misinformation and misconception about men and sexual violence, which can make it harder to reach out for help or even realise that you have experienced abuse. Here are some common myths and corresponding facts.
Fact: The vast majority of sexual violence and abuse is perpetrated by men. However, women can abuse others, including men. Abuse perpetrated by women is just as serious as abuse perpetrated by men.
Fact: Erections/ejaculation are physiological responses to certain stimuli, including physical touch and stress; they are not indications of consent or even sexual arousal. Your abuser may have used this physiological response against you or claimed that you wanted what happened because of it. This is wrong and a form of manipulation.
Fact: Some abusers may have experienced abuse in the past, but the vast majority of survivors do not become abusive. This stereotype often prevents men coming forward about their abuse, as they do not want to be labeled an abuser themselves.
Fact: Anyone can be abused regardless of sexuality. Some men who have been abused by other men worry that they have sent off signals or attracted the abuse somehow. This is not the case. Abuse is not about sex or sexual attraction, but about power and control. The only person responsible for the sexual abuse is the abuser.
Fact: Being transgender or gay is not caused by trauma.
We accept referrals from survivors directly or others on their behalf, with their authorisation i.e. family members, friends, partner agencies, GP’s, Therapists, Social Workers etc. Call us on 01224 590932 or email. We recognise how difficult it can be to tell someone about what you’ve gone through. That’s why getting support isn’t about going into detail or going over exactly what happened if you don’t want to talk about it. It’s about getting the chance to talk through your feelings in a safe, non-judgmental space.
