Male Victims of Domestic Abuse in the UK: A Case Study of Silence, Fear, and Legal Action
A real case where the support system simply wasn’t there
At Arlingsworth, we recently supported a client in a case that exposed the quiet suffering many male victims endure behind closed doors. His situation was not uncommon, but the response he received from those meant to help was deeply concerning.
“Please don’t call. She checks my phone.”
These were the first words our client included in his enquiry form. A man in his 40s, professional and composed, but living under constant fear in his own home.
He had been physically assaulted by his wife on several occasions. Her control extended to every aspect of his day. She monitored his phone, restricted his communication, and used threats to silence him. When he reached out to the police, there was little interest. He was not taken seriously. Domestic abuse charities, he later told us, simply pointed him back to services that were not equipped to deal with male victims.
He felt invisible.
When the System Doesn’t See You
Although UK law recognises that domestic abuse can affect anyone, most services are structured with women’s needs in mind. This means male victims of domestic abuse often struggle to access help that is both appropriate and effective.
In our client’s case:
- Police made no formal record of his injuries
- Charities had no clear pathway for men experiencing violence
- He was told there was “no immediate risk” despite evidence
This is not an isolated failure. According to the ManKind Initiative, one in three victims of domestic abuse is male, yet public awareness and institutional response remain far behind.
The Legal Protections Are There If You Know Where to Turn
Men have the same legal rights as women when it comes to protection from abuse. These include:
- Non-molestation orders to prevent further harm
- Occupation orders to exclude a violent partner from the home
- Restraining orders issued by the courts
- Legal advice on divorce, separation, and child arrangements
But without guidance, many men are unsure how to access these protections or whether they will be believed at all.
No One Should Be Left Alone
Domestic abuse against men remains underreported and often misunderstood. Many victims fear being judged or ridiculed. Others worry about how it will affect their role as a father, a provider, or a professional.
The truth is simple: no one deserves to live in fear. Gender should never determine whether you are offered help.
If you are in immediate danger, call 999.
If you need confidential legal advice:
📞 Call Arlingsworth Solicitors on 01273 696962
📩 Or email info@arlingsworth.com
We offer judgment-free, confidential advice tailored to your situation. You don’t have to suffer in silence. We are here when others aren’t.
