The Bill Reading session for the Interpersonal Abuse and Violence Against Men and Boys Strategy led by Ben Obese-Jecty advocates for the preparation and publication of a distinct strategy tailored to tackle and support male victims of interpersonal abuse. The existing government strategies currently include male victims under the violence against women and girls (VAWG) umbrella, which may not appropriately address the unique challenges faced by men and boys in these contexts.

Ben Obese-Jecty emphasized that the current lack of a dedicated strategy fails to provide the targeted support necessary for male survivors. He highlighted various barriers faced by male victims, such as stigma, shame, lack of societal recognition, and limited support infrastructure. Detailed statistics further underscored these points, such as the disproportionate number of support facilities available for male victims.

Published data from Professor Nicola Graham-Kevan and organizations like We Are Survivors, Men & Boys Coalition, and ManKind Initiative highlight the distress, minimization of experiences, and societal disregard faced by male victims, necessitating a separate strategy. The session concluded with the admonition from notable figures like the Victims’ Commissioner, Baroness Newlove, for a dedicated strategy, signifying broad-based agreement across political and social spheres for tailored legislation.

The motion was passed without opposition, signaling unanimous support across party lines and the move to a Second Reading within the near legislative calendar.

Outcome The Bill was given leave to proceed with unanimous consent, reflecting cross-party support and recognition of the need for a dedicated strategy for male victims.