Specialist Service for Male Victims of Abuse
We recognise that men can often be the forgotten victims of domestic violence. In response to this we provide specialist support services to meet the specific needs of male victims of domestic abuse.
The project was established in August 2009 with the aim of supporting high risk male victims within the Berkshire East & South Bucks area. To date this innovative project has supported over 200 high risk male victims who had suffered at the hands of their partner.
Male Independent Domestic Violence Advocacy Service:
The Male advocate’s primary role is to provide confidential one-to-one support to high risk victims of domestic abuse. The victims can be referred from partner agencies such as police, social services, probation, education and health and additionally self referrals are welcomed.
Once referred into the service the Male IDVA will conduct a risk assessment to highlight all the risks that the man is facing. A tailor made safety plan is then discussed between the male IDVA and the victim to ensure that he and his children can stay safe.
Additionally, high risk clients can also be referred onto the local MARAC (multi-agency risk assessment conference) where all relevant agencies will discuss the case in confidence and produce a further plan to ensure the safety of the victim.
To contact our Male IDVA please ring Alan on: 01753 549865 or email alan@ebwomensaid.org.uk
Refuge – Supported Accommodation
If you need to leave your relationship and require accommodation, we offer supported accommodation for men and their children fleeing domestic abuse. We will assist you to rebuild your life and support you through this very difficult time in your life. We can offer accommodation for single males or fathers with their children. Please remember, you are not alone.
If you require refuge accommodation – Call us on 01753 549865.
Research into male domestic abuse
In addition to supporting high risk victims Berkshire East & South Bucks Women’s Aid has been awarded funding to conduct pioneering research into the issue of male domestic abuse.
The aim of the work is fourfold:
- To gain a clear understanding of the needs of male victims of domestic abuse.
- To analyse trends in those perpetrating the violence as well as those who are victims.
- To understand public attitudes towards male domestic abuse, in particular those of front-line workers who may have direct contact with victims.
- To map the provision of services for male victims across the UK, including safe refuge and specialist services.
The findings from the research will be reported back to the project’s funder which is the Esmee Fairbairn Foundation as well as the Home Office, Coordinated Action Against Domestic Abuse and other organisations associated within the field of domestic abuse. The hope is that it will illustrate the pressing need for support for male victims of domestic abuse.
In order for the research to gain a realistic sample of the services available for male victims throughout the UK, we ask that any front-line services supporting male victims of domestic abuse to please contact Alan (Male Research IDVA) to discuss the services available within your area. We appreciate all your help and support. Contact details below.
E-mail: alan@ebwomensaid.org.uk Office Number: 01753 549865
Male Outreach
The main aim of the Male Outreach Worker is to offer longer-term practical and emotional support to male victims of domestic abuse who have been assessed as suffering from low to medium risk of abuse.
The Outreach Worker will work with the victims to discuss issues such as; risk assessment and safety planning, the impact of domestic abuse on children, how to access emotional support and where appropriate, regaining independence such as going back to work/education or volunteering. He can also signpost victims to other sources of support, including on-line support and e-forums.
Further to this the Male Outreach Worker also works alongside young people that have witnessed/experienced domestic abuse. The aim of this is to break down the cycle of abuse that many young people have seen within the home. The outreach worker will uncover and discuss all behaviours associated with domestic abuse in the hope that the young people will acknowledge abusive behaviours and therefore will not imitate what they have already witnessed. This support can take place within the local refuges and also within the community and will accept referrals from schools, local Youth Offending Teams and any other agencies that believe that this type of support would be beneficial to the young person.
To contact our Male Outreach Worker please call Ben on: 01753 549865 or email ben@ebwomensaid.org.uk