Every year, International Men’s Day asks us to reflect on men’s wellbeing — not just in terms of physical health, but emotional safety and lived experience. At Future Living, we work with men, women and children affected by domestic abuse, and one of the greatest challenges we still face is the silence surrounding male survivors.
Many men struggle to recognise abuse when it is happening to them. They hear messages throughout their lives that they should be strong, in control, or able to “handle” conflict. When that conflict becomes coercion, violence or emotional torment, they often don’t believe they have the right to ask for help. Shame, confusion, and fear of being judged stop them from reaching out.
At Future Living, we know domestic abuse is about power and control — not physical strength or gender. Men can experience emotional manipulation, isolation, financial control, physical assault and psychological harm just as women can. Yet too often, men believe no one will take them seriously, or worse, that they will be blamed.
This is why sharing survivor stories matters. On our social media, we recently shared the testimony of “William” (not his real name), a man who spoke bravely about the emotional and verbal abuse he endured. William described years of being belittled, threatened, and made to feel responsible for his partner’s behaviour — all while believing no one would believe him. His voice is one of many we hear at Future Living, and it represents thousands more who still haven’t spoken.
Silence protects abusers. It isolates victims. And it allows damaging stereotypes about men and masculinity to persist. By acknowledging male survivors, we are not detracting from women’s safety — we are strengthening the fight against abuse in all forms.
Future Living is committed to supporting every survivor. Our services offer confidential support, advocacy, counselling, and a place for healing — regardless of gender.
So today, on International Men’s Day, we ask you to listen. Share William’s story. Challenge the assumptions that keep men silent. And if you are a man living in fear, know this: abuse is never your fault, and you do not have to face it alone.
Future Living is here. We believe you. We will help you rebuild.
If you want to help us support more survivors of domestic abuse you can donate to Future Living here
