Julian House opens second refuge for men escaping domestic abuse

In addition to our vital services for women, we’re now opening our second refuge for men escaping domestic abuse – thanks to funding from Wiltshire council.

We have teamed up with Wiltshire Council to open our second refuge for adult male victims of domestic abuse. This was made possible by Wiltshire Council’s Public Health Team who allocated a portion of the Department for Levelling Up Housing and Communities Domestic Abuse Safe Accommodation Grant to Julian House.

The project has been a success, resulting in a safe, fully furnished accommodation situated in a convenient location in Wiltshire that will temporarily house two adult males who require low-medium support. Staff will be available to assist residents with mental health support and guidance, alongside access to an emergency 24-hour call service – ensuring the residents have the safety and stability necessary in such a time of crises.

1 in 7 men will be a victim of domestic violence in their lifetime. We are determined to provide the support that male victims need to recover, regain their independence and build a new life for themselves.  

According to SafeLives data, only 4.8% of victims supported by local domestic abuse services are men. Considering that men make up 25% of domestic abuse reports recorded by police (ManKind Initiative), this shows a large proportion of male victims are being failed by domestic abuse services.  

Additionally, the number of men who don’t receive adequate support when/after experiencing domestic abuse may be higher than anyone suspects. This is because men are often reluctant to talk about or report their abuse largely due to a fear of being ridiculed or not being taken seriously (domesticshelters.org).

Our work not only provides a safe shelter for male victims, but it also helps to spread awareness of the issue – hopefully prompting more men to speak up and seek help.