Men experience domestic abuse
Domestic abuse doesn’t only affect women. Men experience it too, often facing extra stigma and barriers to speaking up. This page sets out the different forms abuse can take, why it can be hard to come forward, and how to get support for yourself or someone you’re worried about.
How common domestic abuse is for men
Domestic abuse isn’t only something that happens to women. Around one in three survivors of domestic abuse in the UK is male, and men experience the same range of abuse as anyone else, including coercive control, emotional abuse and physical violence. Stigma makes this harder to see. Many male survivors don’t recognise what’s happening to them, or don’t know where to turn.
- One in three domestic abuse survivors in the UK is male (ONS, 2020).
- In the year ending March 2025, it is estimated that 1.5 million men in England and Wales experienced domestic abuse.
- 59% of men experiencing partner abuse didn’t recognise it as domestic abuse at the time — SafeLives.
- 41% of men said they would not know where to seek help if they or someone they knew were in an abusive relationship (SafeLives, “Voices of Men and Boys”).
Barriers that stop men reaching out
Many men worry they won’t be believed, or that admitting to abuse makes them less of a man. Some fear being seen as weak, losing their children, or not being taken seriously by services built with women in mind. Others don’t realise that what they’re experiencing counts as abuse at all, because it doesn’t fit the picture they’ve been given. These are some of the reasons male survivors often wait longer to ask for help.
- Fear of not being believed or taken seriously.
- Feeling that asking for help is a sign of being weak or not coping.
- Worry about losing contact with children.
- Not recognising controlling or coercive behaviour as abuse.
- Concern that support services are only set up for women
What male survivors have told us
“I was able to take back control of my life having received support from Equation. I feel more independent and for once in a very long time I feel more in control. Talking to you gave me a safe space.”
Male service user
Equation’s domestic abuse service for men
What male survivors have told us
“Made me aware that what was happening was reality and wasn’t me imagining it, and that it happens to others and that it does have an impact.”
Male service user
Equation’s domestic abuse service for men
What male survivors have told us
“Helped me realise that it’s more common to affect men than I first thought, and that I wasn’t alone, that there isn’t something wrong with me and that it wasn’t my fault.”
Male service user
Equation’s domestic abuse service for men
Explore key information
A quick guide to understanding abuse, recognising the signs, and knowing what to do next.
Types of abuse
Abuse isn’t always physical. It can include coercive control, emotional and financial abuse, sexual violence, stalking, online abuse, and so-called ‘honour’-based violence. Men can experience all of these, including types people often assume only affect women.
Warning signs
Not sure if what you’re experiencing, or seeing in someone else, counts as abuse? Our warning signs guide sets out common patterns of controlling and abusive behaviour to help you recognise what’s going on.
How to get help
You can refer yourself, or someone you’re worried about, in confidence. Complete our referral form or contact us directly — whichever feels best for you. We’ll respond within 48 hours.
For professionals
If you’re supporting a client, colleague or family member, our guidance for professionals covers how to make a referral and where to signpost for further support.
Refer yourself or someone you’re worried about
We’re here Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 4.30pm excluding bank holidays (7.30pm on Wednesdays) – 24/7 confidential answerphone available outside these times.
Support for men
helpline@equation.org.uk
Support for men
0800 995 6999
LGBTQ+ support
LGBTQ@equation.org.uk
LGBTQ+ support
03300 880787
Still not sure about making a referral?
Many people find it hard to reach out, and that’s okay. Help is here whenever you’re ready. Our team listens to whatever you share, by any method that feels right.
Get in touch with our services
We aim to contact you within 1-2 business days.