Demand for a support service for men who are victims of domestic abuse jumped by 37% last year, a new report has shown.

According to the 2021 Men’s Aid Annual Report, the service successfully responded to 7,561 contacts last year, including 6,690 calls to its helpline and 522 counselling appointments.

However, 630 calls to the helpline were missed.

“The increase in contacts is welcomed as it shows more men are finding the confidence to come forward for support. We know it is only the tip of the iceberg and the reality is that these volumes will increase in the years ahead.

“However, a 37% increase exceeded our expectations and our small frontline team certainly felt the huge increase in demand, as well as longer lengths of time per call,” noted Men’s Aid CEO, Kathrina Bentley.

The report showed that for the vast majority of men who contacted the service – 94% - the perpetrator was female. Disclosures included details of psychological, physical, sexual and financial abuse.

The three main reasons for men contacting the service were emotional support, practical information and safety.

Ms Bentley noted that men who contact the service “often do not see themselves as a victim, or their partner as a perpetrator of domestic violence/coercive control”.

“This highlights how language can be a barrier to seeking support/reporting and the importance of inclusive representation in all forms of awareness, education and discussions as we work towards zero tolerance in our society,” she said.

For more information on Men’s Aid, click here.