Domestic abuse against men
This content applies to England only.
Housing laws vary between England and Scotland. Get advice relating to Scotland
Men can be victims of domestic abuse. The effects of domestic abuse can be just as serious for men as they are for women.
Due to social prejudices, men can find it even harder than women to let other people know that they have been a victim of domestic abuse and to seek help. You may be afraid that you won't be taken seriously, or that you'll be criticised or ridiculed for 'letting' your partner abuse you. Many abused men are reluctant to leave the family home in case they are later denied contact with their children.
The advice throughout this section applies equally to men and women. For example, if you are a man who has experienced domestic abuse:
- You have the same right to apply to the council as homeless if you have had to leave your home.
- You can take legal action against the perpetrator (eg by applying for an Occupation Order, Non-molestation Order, or an injunction).
- You can report incidents to the police.
However, male victims of domestic abuse may find it more difficult to be taken seriously by agencies they approach for assistance. This should not be the case, and you should contact an agency that advises male victims of domestic abuse for help (such as Men's Advice Line).
Unfortunately there are few refuge facilities for men who have experienced domestic abuse - although a specialist agency may be able to help - so if you need emergency accommodation, you may have to approach the council for assistance. If they are unable to help, use our directory to find a local advice agency that may be able to help.
