New helpline for men who are abused by their partners

A NEW service is being set up to support men who are being abused by their partners.

The Men's Advice Line will go live in Scotland next month, with trained advisors offering confidential advice, practical and emotional support to Scottish men.

More than 7,000 men reported being abused by a partner last year. In 14 per cent of domestic abuse cases reported to the police, a male victim reports suffering abuse from a female partner.

Another arm of the advice line, Respect, will offer support to anyone worried about their own behaviour towards a partner.

The helplines will also be a key source of information on the scope and severity of abuse experienced by men and what support men need.

Housing and communities minister Alex Neil said:

"Domestic abuse is unacceptable, whether it is carried out by a man or a woman."

Men's Health Forum Scotland national co-ordinator Mark Ward said:

"Respect and the Men's Advice Line are valuable resources for both men who are abusive and want to change their behaviour, and for those men who are themselves victims of abuse."