I’ve just finished reading an article in a magazine about a young man who had been raped by three women whilst on holiday. I was sickened and devastated to learn that the police in the country, who he bravely managed to go to, ashamed and embarrassed, laughed at him and told him that he should have thanked the women and been grateful for the sex and attention.

This man feels traumatised and anxious as a result of the attack, and has not felt able to be intimate with anybody since. Many people only think of victims of rape, sexual assault and domestic violence as being girls or women. However, this kind of treatment and abuse against men and boys is just as illegal and traumatic for the victim.

It can be a lot harder for men to come forward and report or talk about their attacks and experiences, due to the myths and stereotypes still perpetuated on the basis of gender identity. I believe it is extremely brave of anyone to come forward as a victim of rape or abuse, and I admire those who do. Men who report sexual crimes should always be listened to, and taken just as seriously, as women. The public needs better awareness of the fact that it is not just women and girls that can be victims of sexual violence.

I encourage any man who is a victim or witness of rape and sexual abuse/assault to come forward and to be open, honest and demand that they are treated with as much respect and dignity as women. This is their right, and should never be denied. Remember that it is not you who is in the wrong, but rather the person who inflicted this pain and grief upon you. Carry on living for yourself, with the support of those around you. Keep holding on and never give up, and remember that there is help available to you, from organisations like SurvivorsUK.

by Kayleigh Rockall