Today (7 November) marks Mankind Initiative’s 'Supporting Male Victims of Domestic Abuse' Day.
Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne said: “Having spoken with male victims of Domestic Abuse, it was clear that there was a gap in provision for dedicated support for men in Sussex.
“Following an application to the Ministry of Justice for funding, I was able to commission two male Independent Domestic Abuse Advisors (IDVAs) to offer a support service for men, delivered by men.
“The two Sussex-based male Independent Domestic Violence Advocates (IDVAs) were recruited earlier this year through a partnership between Victim Support and Mankind UK and have been making a significant difference to the lives of male DA victims and survivors.
“Today it is more important than ever to shine a light on the great work of our male IDVAs in Sussex, giving male survivors of domestic abuse dedicated support through an incredibly distressing time.
“It is encouraging to know that our male IDVAs are already making a difference. I am grateful for the support of Victim Support and Mankind UK for overseeing the two roles to ensure Sussex can provide the highest-quality service to those who need it most.”
Helen Elson, Domestic Abuse Manager at Victim Support Sussex said: “Our male Independent Domestic Violence Advocates play a vital role in supporting men experiencing domestic abuse, in Sussex. No one should have to go through domestic abuse alone. To any men in Sussex experiencing abuse, please don’t suffer in silence. Our specialist service, delivered by men, provides free support and advice – get in touch by visiting victimsupport.org.uk/resources/Sussex or call our 24/7 helpline on 08 08 16 89 111.”
Mankind UK's CEO Lucy Hughes said: "We're delighted to be working with Victim Support to add IDVAs to the range of male-centred services on offer in Sussex, and to be working towards ensuring that survivors of domestic abuse of all genders get the support they need in a timely way."
