A domestic violence awareness expert has welcomed Minister for Justice Naomi Long’s support for male victims.
Nuala Lappin, a retired specialist PSNI domestic abuse officer who was instrumental in bringing Jonathan Creswell to justice over his brutal attack on his former partner Abi Lyle, has described Minister Long’s comments around male victims as “encouraging”.
Minister Long said the Department of Justice is committed to ensuring all victims can access tailored support.
Reiterating the message that domestic abuse can affect anyone, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, age or financial or professional status, Minister Long said: “Men who come forward to seek help are showing strength, not weakness. More men are recognising the signs of abuse and reaching out for support. This is a positive and important step forward. No-one affected by domestic abuse should ever feel ashamed or that they must suffer in silence.
“Every man who seeks help is taking a step towards safety and recovery, and I hope, we can continue to tackle the stigma and silence that can surround male domestic abuse.”
Recent PSNI statistics show that over 30 per cent of recorded domestic abuse crime victims are male.
Minister Long continued: “The Domestic and Sexual Abuse (DSA) Strategy, launched by the Department of Justice and Department of Health, is designed to support all victims, regardless of gender.
“The Strategy recognises that men can face particular barriers when seeking help, including stigma, fear of not being believed, and limited access to specialist accommodation or male-focused services. This underscores the need for continued awareness, support and tailored services for all who experience abuse.
“However, it is absolutely essential that any man living under the shadow of domestic abuse knows that they can come forward; they will be believed and they will receive the help and support they need to move forward with their lives.
“Organisations across Northern Ireland, including the 24-hour Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline, the ASSIST NI Advocacy Service and Victim Support NI, remain committed to ensuring that male victims receive the same standard of care, protection and support as any other victim.
“I also acknowledge the vital work being undertaken by organisations, such as the Men’s Advisory Project, in delivering support and interventions specifically tailored to male victims.
Ms Lappin welcomed the approach.
She said: “It’s encouraging that our Justice Minister recognises the issues men face as victims of domestic abuse and the horrific consequences and trauma it causes. Domestic abuse thrives in silence.
“Stereotyping must change.. This should not be a divisive issue, because all are victims, should be treated equally regardless of gender. Yet when the term domestic abuse is used the mental image is largely man against woman.
“That perception is outdated and not reflective of fact. Unfortunately support for male victims in Northern Ireland is very much lacking and there is currently no refuge/safe place for men. Displacement in these circumstances further adds to the existing trauma. Failure to equally address victims and indeed perpetrators, such as in terms of prosecution and sentencing, is discriminatory.”
Anyone experiencing domestic abuse — male or female — is encouraged to reach out for support.
