The particular approach we are taking through Equally Safe brings a strategic focus to the issue of men’s violence against women and girls, as underpinned by the definition we have adopted, which is in turn based on the principles of international law through the UN definition of gender based violence. A gendered analysis does not exclude men, but rather recognises that women and girls are disproportionately affected by particular forms of violence that they experience because they are women and girls.

We fully acknowledge that men and boys can be victims of violence and abuse. We know that the prevailing societal view of what constitutes masculinity makes it difficult for men to identify themselves as experiencing abuse and can prevent them from seeking help.

We condemn all forms of violence and abuse, whilst recognising that particular forms of violence are disproportionately experienced by one gender and require a strong strategic focus. Men have a critical role in challenging violence, breaking down gender norms and in helping to ensure greater gender equality in society – they are also entitled to support when they experience violence and abuse.

Domestic abuse is about power and control. The reason this disproportionately affects women and girls is because of notions of gender and which gender should have power over the other. The actions in the Equally Safe delivery plan, to raise awareness of the different forms of gender based violence, teach consent and healthy relationships, remove gender stereotypes and hold perpetrators to account, will help all victims of domestic abuse including those who identify as male.