19 Nov NEWS – 1 in 6 boys are sexually abused before their 18th birthday…
Every year, International Men’s Day is celebrated on the same date – 19 November – worldwide. Lancashire-based sexual abuse charity Trust House Lancashire believes this day is a significant opportunity to focus on the need of male survivors of sexual abuse and violence.
Research suggests that 1 in 6 men have experienced sexual abuse or violence before their 18th birthday. Men often don’t see themselves as victims, and the stigma surrounding abused males sadly result in unreported cases, meaning the trauma of the abuse is never supported. The impact of this can result in serious long-term health and wellbeing issues.
Trust House Lancashire is working hard to eradicate the stigma and urge males to come forward with experienced abuse and seek support. Over the last twelve months, the charity has provided over 504 hours of counselling to males across the county. Society has a crucial role in reducing stigma and supporting all genders to come forward and seek support. Allowing victims of abuse to regain control of their lives lead meaningful relationships and positivity to move forward.
CEO Catherine Smith of Trust House Lancashire said:
“It is important to offer male survivors a safe environment where they feel believed and time to share their story. Over the years, we have worked with many male survivors who share that having someone who provided a listening ear and did not question the validity of their story was vital in their recovery and healing.”
This International Men’s Day, the charity has shared a story that is based on various real-life accounts of male survivors who have accessed support from the charity. The charity hopes the story will encourage more males to come forward and seek support.
James (31) Male Survivor of sexual abuse said:
“Please don’t make the same mistake in life as I did. Life is for living. Break that silence, sexual abuse can happen to anyone regardless of your gender. It is so important to talk and be reassured you are a stronger person by doing so. I’m now being supported by professionals at Trust House Lancashire and learning how to heal.”
For more information about the charity and the support, we provide, please visit www.trusthouselancs.org or call 01772 825288.