A NEW helpline for men suffering from abuse has been launched.

The helpline has been funded by police and crime commissioner John Campion, who secured £28,000 from the Ministry of Justice.

It is covered by staff who are trained to provide support to men in Worcestershire and Herefordshire who need information, advice or just a listening ear.

Men are encouraged to call the helpline if they are, or have been, subject to bullying, coercion, violence or other forms of abuse in their intimate relationships and need advice or support.

Calls can be made to the helpline at any time and those living in the two counties can ask to be referred for further support from specialist workers.

Sue Coleman, chief executive officer at West Mercia Women’s Aid said: "We know from our specialist safety work with those at high risk of harm from domestic abuse, that men are also placed in impossible situations because of the abuse that they experience at home.

"There are few local services that can respond immediately and with confidence to those men who reach out for help and support; we are pleased to be able to step into that space and offer men that lifeline."

Mr Campion added: "There are too many victims of domestic abuse who do not receive the help they deserve or need, often through fear or because they don’t see the point in speaking up.

"This includes male victims of domestic abuse. Therefore, this funding, which has allowed support to be put in place for males, will provide invaluable help and advice for those who need it."

The Men’s Domestic Abuse Helpline is 0800 014 9082; it is available 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year.

For further information about how West Mercia Women’s Aid supports men please visit

https://www.westmerciawomensaid.org/services/support-for-men/.

The service will provide information, advice and support for men who have experienced domestic abuse, including:

• One to one listening support;

• Opportunity to participate in group programmes with other men with similar experiences;

• Access to emergency safe accommodation if needed;

• Advice in seeking legal representation;

• Help in looking for permanent accommodation if they are homeless as a consequence of domestic abuse.