IN THE KNOW
Reliable, honest information can make a real difference to the lives of male survivors.
I’M CONVINCED THAT IF WE’RE TO REALLY MEET THE NEEDS OF SURVIVORS AND PROVIDE MY FELLOW SURVIVORS WITH THE SUPPORT THEY DESERVE; THEN WE NEED TO ASK QUESTIONS, COLLECT DATA, HARNESS THE WORDS OF SURVIVORS, AND IN SOME WAY MEASURE OUR SUCCESSES AND - IMPORTANTLY - OUR FAILURES.
I wasn’t that academic at school, to be honest I had other things on my mind at that time - such as the vital task of ensuring that no one found out about the sexual abuse I was experiencing. However, once I started my journey as an adult learner, which began doing a short night school course to leaving a prestigious University with a Masters Degree (with Distinction) in Counselling and Psychotherapy, and a thesis that was the blueprint for starting We Are Survivors, I really understood the power of knowledge. It has always been important to me, as the founder and Chief Executive Officer of this wonderful organisation, that research and knowledge is threaded through everything we do.
We have always collected data and information from everyone that engages in our service; we have always engaged with researchers who are focusing on male survivors; we have always been responsive to new and emerging research; and we have
always tried to make sure that we have an evidence base underpinning every decision we make and every service we develop. Our refreshed charitable objects, approved by the Charity Commission earlier this year, has put training, education, knowledge and understanding back to being equally front and centre of what we do.
To compliment the work of our Information & Data Manager and our Senior Information & Data Analyst, our resident research expert, Rory, has taken up a new position in the organisation as Information & Policy CoOrdinator who will be working to help our teams help survivors understand the impact of national and local policy; and help policy leads make more informed decisions using our data and knowledge.
So in bringing this edition together, we have put a spotlight on research, and I hope that it gives you a flavour of not only how we’ve engaged in knowledge collection and dissemination; but how we’re committing to creating spaces for male survivors voices to be understood.
Thank you for your ongoing support.
DUNCAN CRAIG OBE Chief Executive Officer
A MENS HEALTH STRATEGY CALL FOR EVIDENCE
A STRATEGY FOR MALE SURVIVORS
Will male survivors finally be removed from the tackling Violence Against Women and Girls strategy?
RECENTLY, BEN OBESE-JECTY MP WAS GRANTED A TEN MINUTE RULE MOTION IN THE HOUSE OF COMMONS, WHICH MEANT HE COULD PRESENT HIS BILL: INTERPERSONAL ABUSE AND VIOLENCE AGAINST MEN AND BOYS (STRATEGY).
A Ten Minute Rule Bill is a type of Private Members’ Bill introduced in the House of Commons under Standing Order No 23, allowing a backbench MP to make his or her case for a new Bill in a speech lasting up to ten minutes. An opposing speech may also be made before the
House decides whether or not the Bill should be introduced. If the MP is successful the Bill is taken to have had its first reading.
The presentation of the Bill gave thanks to We Are Survivors and was accepted by the sitting MPs without objection. The Speaker of the House then confirmed a second reading of the bill to take place on 16th May.
Scan the QR code to WATCH the Bill’s presentation in The House of Commons.
GOVERNMENT LAUNCHES CALL FOR EVIDENCE ON MEN’S HEALTH.
The government is calling for men of all ages to come forward and feed into England’s first ever men’s health strategy.
The 12-week call for evidence will gather vital insights from the public, health and social care professionals, academics and employers so the government can properly consider how to prevent and tackle the biggest issues facing men from all backgrounds.
We Are Survivors will make a formal submission to the Government but are encouraging all male survivors to go online and give their own views too: www.consultations.dhsc.gov.uk/ mens-health-strategy
CENTRE FOR POLICY RESEARCH ON MEN AND BOYS
A new centre of excellence has been launched in the UK with the backing of international leaders, academics and policy makers. Through research, advocacy, and events, the Centre for Policy and Research on Men and Boys (CPRMB) aims to create a more equitable society by identifying challenges and promoting solutions that improve the well-being of men and boys and thus create the most positive wider economic and social benefits for society at large. Check out the website at: www.menandboys.org.uk
MEET THE TEAM
RORY BROOKE
Information and Policy Coordinator
“I’M RORY AND I AM THE INFORMATION AND POLICY COORDINATOR HERE AT WE ARE SURVIVORS, supporting Duncan (our CEO) and the wider organisation keep up-to-date with local and national policymaking, with male victims/survivors in mind. For example, as men and boys fall under the remit of the Government’s Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy, it’s my role to analyse and report on new police measures, based on strategy recommendations, that impact survivors going through the criminal justice process. I likewise keep a critical eye on other key sectors, including the NHS and regional survivor focused third-sector organisations. Alongside my data and informatics colleagues in the operations directorate, I support Duncan, as our CEO, to assemble the right information for We Are Survivors to influence the right people in power to make the right decisions.”
Find out more about our work at: www.wearesurvivors.org.uk
OUR STATS
THE DIFFERENCE WE MAKE. AT A GLANCE.
The data says “Yes!”
IN 2019 WHEN I WAS WRITING THE 3-5 YEAR PLAN FOR WE ARE SURVIVORS (THEN SURVIVORS MANCHESTER), I SET OUT THAT BY 2025 WE WOULD REDUCE THE TIME IN SILENCE FOR MALE SURVIVORS BY FIVE YEARS. I didn’t set out HOW we’d do that, but there was certainly something about ensuring that men know that they CAN speak out, and that we would pull down as many barriers as possible to make that happen. As we got to the end of 2024-25, we’re at that first horizon goal... ‘Reduce the time in silence by 5 years’. Did we? Well the data says YES! In 2015, the average age of a male survivor referring in to We Are Survivors was 41 and the average lowest time between the sexual 25 years. In 2025, the average age of a male survivor referring in to We Are Survivors is and the average lowest time between the sexual harm happening to referral is 15 years. That means the lowest length 10 YEARS! The average maximum length of time between the sexual harm happening to referral years. In 2025, its 24 years, which means its dropped by 13 years!
Chief Executive Officer
Average age at time of referral to We Are Survivors
Average maximum length of time between harm and referral to We Are Survivors
Average shortest length of time between harm and referral to We Are Survivors
" 2015 2025
41 34
37 24 years years 15 years
25 years
OUR TOP TRAINING TIPS
IF YOU’RE TAKING PART IN THE GREAT MANCHESTER RUN (OR ANY RUN!), YOU’LL KNOW THE IMPORTANCE OF TRAINING!
GREAT MANCHESTER RUN
KEEP ON RUNNING!
Whether it’s the Great Manchester Run or the London Marathon, raising money for We Are Survivors can - and does! - make sure we can keep supporting male survivors.
IT’S RUNNING SEASON, WHICH IS A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO SHOW YOUR SUPPORT AND RAISE MONEY.
We’ve got three top tips for the mind and body to get yourself psyched and ready to run!
1. 2. 3.
Focus on distance not pace, your run doesn’t need to be super speedy, if you’re struggling slow down!
Visualise your success. Try to picture yourself crossing the finishing line or visualise warming up and setting off strong.
The route is all city centre, with some long, straight road stretches. Our top tip: build lengthy straights into your training routes to build a strong mindset as well as physical stamina.
Good luck. You’ve got this!
Joshua Snelson, a former service user at We Are Survivors has decided to run in this year’s Great Manchester Run and support We Are Survivors. Joshua told Beyond The Silence, “I’m proud to be taking part in this year’s Great Manchester 10k in support of We Are Survivors — a charity that holds a deeply personal place in my heart. As a former service user, I know first-hand the lifechanging impact this organisation can have. Their support helped me through some of my most difficult times, and now I want to give something back. I’m also part of the charity committee at Cardinal Global Logistics, and I’m thrilled the
company has committed to match every donation made in support of this run — effectively doubling the impact of every pound raised! Whether it’s £5 or £50, your donation goes directly to supporting men who have experienced sexual abuse, assault, or exploitation — and helps ensure they are heard, supported, and empowered.”
You can directly support Josh at the Great Manchester Run by scanning the QR code. And don’t forget, by supporting Josh, Cardinal Global Logistics will MATCH your donation - so your support will go TWICE as far!
To download or read our FREE Fundraising pack, just scan the QR code.
EPISODE GUIDE
EPISODE 1
SELF CARE & MINDFULNESS
With special guest Joshua from We Are Survivors.
EPISODE 2
AUTHENTIC VOICES & STORYTELLING
With special guest Christopher from We Are Survivors.
EPISODE 3
DATA & SAFE SPACES
With special guest Jamie from We Are Survivors.
EPISODE 4
CHALLENGING STIGMA & CULTURAL BARRIERS
With special guests Nissa and Riz from We Are Survivors.
EPISODES 5 & 6
16TH BIRTHDAY SPECIAL
A two-part celebration of We Are Survivor’s 16th birthday with a panel of guests including Cheddar Gorgeous.
RETURN OF THE POD PEOPLE!
Season two of our podcast Beyond the Silence drops in May. Tag gives us a preview...
We’re buzzing to announce that our podcast Beyond the Silence, is back for a second season – launching this May!
If you caught season one, you’ll know it was a powerful ride. Not only did it open up our service to a whole new audience, but it gave our brilliant staff the mic to dive deep into topics around mental health, healing, and support that really matter to them (and to us all). It’s been honest, eye-opening, and full of heart.
And guess what? We’re just getting started.
Season two is shaping up to be just as bold. We’ll be getting into some exciting (and vital) conversations about our ISVA service, prison-based therapy work, and the wrap-around support we
offer. Plus, a couple of familiar voices might be making a return…
Of course, it wouldn’t be Beyond the Silence without our amazing host George, who’s back and bringing his usual mix of warmth, insight, and straight-up brilliance to every episode.
If you haven’t already, go binge season one – it’s all there, raw and real. And make sure to follow us so you’re the first to know when season two drops. We can’t wait to share more stories, more truth, and more hope. Let’s keep the conversation going.
Scan the QR code to listen to all episodes of Beyond The Silence.
BEYOND THE SILENCE: THE PODCAST
Any plans for Saturday 23rd August? Fancy joining us for a fun day on the Manchester Pride Parade?
Last year, the ON IT campaign took part in the Manchester Pride parade with a 50-strong contingent of supporters proudly sharing the ON IT campaign message.
The great news is we’ll be marching again this year, but this time we have room for up to 100 people! If you’ve always wanted to take part in the Parade, this is your opportunity. We’ll once again be carrying placards along the parade route amplifying our message of #LoveConsent. This year is our Year Of Consent, and we want to make sure as many people as possible get the message that consent can take us to the most wonderful places. To secure your place on the Parade with us, e-mail onit@wearesurvivors.org.uk
Find out more about ON IT at www.onit.org.uk
Are you a male survivor ally? Take the test!
Survivor Ally is a collab campaign and website from We Are Survivors and Mandem Meetup with an aim to educate professionals across various fields to create environments where male (including trans and non-binary individuals) survivors feel comfortable and supported when accessing services that may involve physical contact.
Training is currently aimed at barbers, tattooists, GP’s and sexual health doctors. If you’re a professional in any of these fields, then make sure to head over to the website to complete your course. Upon successful completion, you will receive an exclusive Completion Pack that recognises your achievements and commitment to create a safe space for survivors.
This pack includes an electronic Survivor Ally certificate, showing your dedication and new-found expertise. Make sure you keep an on the website for the latest updates!
Find out more about at www.wereallies.co.uk
NO MORE SILENT
A History of We Are Survivors Part Two: 2013-2016
In the second of a four-part series celebrating sixteen years of We Are Survivors, we look at the increasing public awareness of male sexual abuse thanks to mainstream visibility of our work...
2013
BIG NEWS: The death of Margaret Thatcher
FILM OF THE YEAR: Frozen
SONG OF THE YEAR: Get Lucky – Daft Punk TV OF THE YEAR: Broadchurch (ITV)
In our Chair’s introduction to our annual report for 2013, Prof Craig Harris reflected on the impact of Survivors Manchester regionally and nationally and expressed an “ambition to spread our message internationally.” This year saw Survivors Manchester publish a significant report which followed almost two years of data analysis. ‘A Social Return on Investment for the Future’ surmised that every £1 invested in Survivors Manchester generated £177 of value for its stakeholders; and that the organisation saved the Greater Manchester economy on average £26,000 per male survivor per year. Commenting on the report, Greater Manchester Police and Crime Commissioner, the late Tony Lloyd said, “Survivors Manchester provides an incredibly important service to males who have endured rape, sexual abuse and sexual exploitation – and that’s something you can’t put a price on… Survivors Manchester has proved how it makes a positive impact on society as a whole…” August this year saw the launch of our Safer Streets outreach project which engaged with boys and young men either selling sex or at risk of sexual exploitation in the City. After months of behind-the-scenes work, Channel 4’s ongoing-drama Hollyoaks announced a major new storyline involving the rape of central character John Paul McQueen. Our CEO Duncan was appointed as script advisor for this ground-breaking storyline. John Paul,
early Ambassador (a role he still holds today). Working closely with TV production companies on male sexual abuse remained – and continues to be – important work for us and ensures that male survivors stories are told respectfully and truthfully, while signposting that support is available. 2013 ends with Survivors Manchester involved in the launch of the Children’s Commissioner’s National Inquiry into CSE in Groups and Gangs, and sees Duncan interviewed on the BBC’s Crimewatch to support a live investigation and talk about the new Hollyoaks storyline.
2014
BIG NEWS: Scottish independence referendum FILM OF THE YEAR: The Lego Movie
SONG OF THE YEAR: Happy – Pharrel Williams TV OF THE YEAR: Happy Valley (BBC One)
After months of work, the John Paul rape storyline is broadcast in January, to enormous public and press interest. As a result, the public profile of Survivors Manchester went stratospheric and provoked considerable public discussion. Press interest in Survivors Manchester exploded and Duncan spent many hours over an eight-month period talking with journalists about the impact of the Hollyoaks storyline. Duncan appeared on Channel 5’s The Wright Stuff where he took calls live on TV and the John Paul rape storyline was nominated for several awards, including British Soap Awards and RTS NW Awards. As a result of the significant public interest in our work – also due in part to our ongoing #BreakTheSilence campaign – an exhibition was held at Virgin
Homo Heroes Awards; and the No Offence Award for Partnership Working. To round off the year, Duncan received national recognition when he was awarded The Guardian’s Charity Trailblazer of the Year. Most importantly though, this ongoing public recognition of our work resulted in a high number of referrals to Survivors Manchester. Throughout the year we also delivered the first ever male survivors support group in a UK prison. The project was hailed as a huge success. Today We Are Survivors continues its work in North West prisons with our OUT Spoken psychotherapy service.
2015
BIG NEWS: Conservatives win UK general election
FILM OF THE YEAR: Star Wars: The Force Awakens
SONG OF THE YEAR: Uptown Funk – Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
TV OF THE YEAR: Love Island (ITV)
Continuing in the wake of our work with Hollyoaks, Duncan is honoured in London and receives the inaugural Attitude Magazine Pride Award for his work within the LGBT community on sexual violence. He is featured with his fellow winners on the front cover of the magazine, stacked on newsagents’ shelves across the UK. Early in the year Survivors Manchester engaged in World Book Night and held its first public event at the Deansgate branch of Waterstones where 10 male survivors stood up in front of an audience of invited guests and read their creative writing work which had been created through the support of renowned poets Cathy Crabb and Tony Curry. We were filled with pride. As we also were when service user campaigner, Tom, took off on a momentous journey to climb Mount Kilimanjaro – raising funds for Survivors Manchester. Tom was inspired to do this after his engagement and use of our trauma-focused therapy service. In recognition of this amazing achievement, Tom was made our very first UK ambassador. 2015 saw our IAPT (Improving Access to Psychological Therapy) Programme officially begin and led by our new appointed Operations Lead Chris Speed – now our Deputy CEO! A new project in HMP Buckley Hall developed and delivered a traumafocused therapy service to non-sexual offending prisoners. Our ongoing relationship with Lime Pictures (Hollyoaks), and Duncan’s previous career in the theatre collided and co-produced an event at London’s famous Southbank Centre as part of the Being A Man Festival. The sold-out event at the Royal Festival Hall prompted a full discussion of the sexual violation of men and boys. Reflecting on a pivotal year for Survivors Manchester, Duncan reiterated that our successes and reach are all in service to the men and boys who bravely
that has picked up the phone, e-mailed or reached out to us asking for help - you continue to inspire
us as you face the traumas of the past and present, and continue forward on your healing journey to break the silence.”
2016
BIG NEWS: Donald Trump wins US election FILM OF THE YEAR: Deadpool
SONG OF THE YEAR: Can’t Stop The Feeling – Justin Timberlake TV OF THE YEAR: Fleabag (BBC Three) Campaigning was a big theme for 2016. We added our voice to the ‘UK Says NO MORE’ campaign; we marched with our friends at 42nd Street in their first ever Manchester Pride parade entry; we worked with the BBC’s Crimewatch to make a film about personal safety and sexual assault aimed at freshers; and we were finally able to introduce the UK to #1BlueString – an awareness raising campaign that highlighted the 1 in 6 males affected by childhood sexual abuse by changing 1 of the 6 strings on a guitar to blue. Duncan was also incredibly honoured and proud to join a number of international trailblazers in the field of male sexual violence, including: Dr Gary Foster (Living Well, Australia), Rick Goodwin (Men and Healing, Canada), Ken Clearwater (Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse Trust, NZ), Dr David Lisak (The Bristlecone Project, USA), Steve LePore (1in6, USA), and Mike Lew (author of Victims No Longer) in New York, spending time talking about each other’s work and the international issue of male sexual violence. Perhaps one of the most left-field highlights of 2016 came from our CEO Duncan sending a latenight tweet to darts professional Eric Bristow. Bristow had tweeted some abhorrent comments about footballers breaking their silence on sexual abuse. The very next day, Duncan found himself live on Sky News criticizing Bristow for comments and being commended by news anchor legend, Kay Burley, for breaking the silence. Reflecting on 2016, Duncan said “Whilst Survivors Manchester was my idea, and it was me on my own for a few years trying to get it started, it’s grown into what it is today because of the staff, volunteers, trustees and Ambassadors. This is teamwork at its finest.”
AS FILMS, TELEVISION, AND NEWS STORIES around sexual harms continue to pervade public discussion, all the while We Are Survivors continue to press lawmakers to include men and boys in legislation, our organisation must be rigorous in having the correct information and data to hand keep up the pressure.
This is why Rory, as our new Information and Policy Coordinator, is co-authoring a male survivor-led research policy alongside three external academics. These being Dr Siobhan at the University of Lancaster, Dr Emma Sleath at the University of Leicester, and Dr Grace Carter at Coventry University. The goal is to create a policy that ensures that any and all research engagement, within or in collaboration with external institutions, is ‘survivor-led’ and contributes towards We Are Survivors’ objectives.
Rory’s background as a part time PhD researcher in philosophy, combined with Siobhan’s, Emma’s, and Grace’s
the legal, criminological and psychological expertise respectively, has driven the desire for a formal policy be put in place that promotes male survivor voices in research. Nevertheless, the most important collaborators in this project have been the voices and words of survivors within our organisation, these being both our Expert-ReferenceGroup and survivor staff. Two workshops were hosted in 2024, within which survivor-leadership as a concept was discussed, in addition to further ethical and operational procedures that are faced, both by participants and researchers, when projects actively involve male survivors of sexual harms.
The project is currently in its final steps, the draft policy being reviewed by the Survivors Voices organisation, whose definition of ‘Survivor-Led’ this policy cites from their Charter for Engaging Survivors. We Are Survivors hope that this policy will be another step towards achieving our second charitable object, supporting survivors and researchers as the charity ‘shares knowledge and information to support a greater societal understanding of sexual harms’.
The lived experiences of male survivors is at the heart of all our data at We Are Survivors...
Inspired by the Survivors Voices Charter, We Are Survivors adheres to four key principals for male survivors-led research.
SURVIVOR INVOLVEMENT THAT IS AUTHENTIC, INTEGRATED, AND HOLISTIC
Authentic; survivors’ participation/leadership is not tokenistic, and their perspectives are embedded across the research. Integrated; research is a shared endeavour with survivors and is clear about the level of survivor involvement. Holistic; the promotion of survivors’ choice, autonomy/agency, trust, and transparency builds new connections within the survivor community and amongst allies.
RESEARCH HAS TO BE PURPOSEFUL AND CONTRIBUTE TO MEANINGFUL CHANGE
Clear and concise communication about the need for the research is vital; its purpose and potential impact is key to organisational and external stakeholders and is accessible for survivors in providing options for (non)participation.
Research Impact and making a difference must be shown; a demonstrated commitment to pursuing change from the project findings and communicating those avenues for change.
EMBEDDING SAFETY FOR ALL INVOLVED, AT THE CORE OF THE RESEARCH AND THROUGHOUT ITS LIFECYCLE
Researcher safety; that vicarious trauma and retraumatisation can be followed up by services internal and external to the organisation, and that the researcher is
THE MOST IMPORTANT COLLABORATORS IN THIS PROJECT HAVE BEEN THE VOICES AND WORDS OF SURVIVORS WITHIN WE ARE SURVIVORS. ” “
aware of risk. Survivor safety; that survivor participation is always optional, and that staff and service based measures are in place to ensure safety depending on the research activity. Disclosure protection; that both the researcher and We Are Survivors abide by any and all confidentiality agreements and GDPR/Data Protection policies.
RESEARCH CAN BE CONDUCTED WITH SPECIFIC GROUPS OF SURVIVORS, BUT SHOULD NEVER SEEK TO UNDERMINE OR DIMINISH THE EXPERIENCES OF SURVIVORS OUTSIDE
OF THIS GROUP
Demographics and experiences that are relevant to survivorship; that research investigates and answers questions regarding mental or physical health issues related to survivorship, in addition to sociocultural, economic, or wider systemic problems appropriately. Research with all Survivors in mind; that decisions, conduct and outcomes in the research are of categorical benefit to breaking the silence of men and boys sexual abuse, exploitation and rape.
DOCTOR REPORT TO THE
You might be very familiar with Cheddar Gorgeous from RuPaul’s Drag Race and winning Mastermind. But did you know Cheddar (aka Dr Michael Atkins) was also the author of a groundbreaking report on sex, chems, HIV and consent?
Research about sex, drugs and HIV share a common challenge. They are all things that our communities sometimes struggle to discuss in an open and frank way. Whether due to shame, fear of recrimination or lack of articulation, the myriad of issues, contexts and complexities that may be tethered between them are so often unspoken. ‘Sex, Chems, HIV & Consent’ amplifies the words and lived experiences of those who have sex whilst using chems, and
I HAVE WITNESSED FIRST HAND THE POWER OF FINDING WORDS AND WAYS TO UNDERSTAND THE PARTS OF OUR LIVES JUST OUT OF OUR CONSCIOUS DOMINION. “ “
Dr. Michael Atkins
aims to help remove the shame and stigmas and support people to have the sex they want in the way they want, whilst reducing harm and holding their consent with absolute certainty. The report was commissioned by We Are Survivors and our friends at George House Trust. This is the first joint piece of work on this issue and our intention is to strengthen the narrative and ensure that public services are aware of this often hidden issue and break down the stigma that exists around Sex, Chems, HIV & Consent - because talking about it causes harm.
The report was also the catalyst for our ongoing ON IT campaign - see www.onit.org.uk. The ON IT campaign took part in all local north west Pride events last year sharing our harm reduction message, and this year will expand into some major events, including Manchester’s first ever Chemsex conference. Keep an eye out for more details over the coming weeks and months!
SCAN THE QR CODE to read or download the ‘Sex, Chems, HIV and Consent’ report by Dr. Michael Atkins
Taking our community peer-support group model, The Safe Room, tenfold. Not only did we see the results of change in the men, but we could measure it using NHS outcomes and prove 10 out of 13 prisoners showed ‘clinically significant’ positive changes.
Our work with the University of Manchester, currently underway, is helping us to better understand what the change agent is for the men in our OUT Spoken Prison service, in them understanding their own experiences of sexual harm; and how We Are Survivors can continue to meet their needs as survivors.
CHECKLIST MEN’S HEALTH
O OR OVER?
DIY health checks should NEVER replace professional advice from a Doctor or other health professionals, but they can be a useful way to spot problems early. If you feel it’s time to
CHECK YOUR TESTICLES REGULARLY FOR ANY CHANGES, LUMPS OR SWELLING. Carrying out self-checks regularly can help you to spot any problems (such as testicular cancer) earlier - it’s easier to treat the earlier it’s found! The ideal time to check for lumps or swelling is after a warm bath or shower.
It’s as easy as 1-2-3 3
Hold your balls in your palm. Roll each testicle between your finger
. Gently feel the surface of each ball.
A couple things to be aware of - one testicle may be slightly bigger than the other. This is normal. It’s also normal for one testicle to hang slightly lower than your other one. But any big You should be checking for lumps or any swelling; pain; hardness; one testicle noticeably different from the other; an increase in the size of testicle; or a
As we get older our bodies change, and you may find your testicles get slightly smaller as you produce less testosterone. This is normal and natural. A healthy diet can help keep your testicles healthy. Lumps are not always cancer, they could be hernia or an infection. If you have any concerns at all, always contact your GP.
DIABETES
Diabetes causes an imbalance in blood sugar due to problems with how the body makes or responds to the hormone insulin. There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2. Men are more susceptible to developing Type 2, and may experience unique health complications like erectile dysfunction (early signs: frequent urination, thirst, and fatigue). The risk of Type 2 usually increases with age, because as we age our body is less tolerant of sugar.
Anyone can get diabetes, but the risk is higher in people who are: obese or overweight; have family members who have diabetes; not physically active; eat a diet high in sugars, processed foods, saturated fats; or people from Black African Caribbean and South Asian (Bangladeshi, Indian, Pakistani) backgrounds.
The symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes vary from person to person. Symptoms to look out for include: thirst; feeling hungry especially after eating; dry mouth; frequent urination; fatigue; blurred vision; cuts or wounds taking longer to heal; low testosterone; loss of muscle mass; fertility problems; and a higher risk of curvature of the penis. Knowing diabetes symptoms in men can help you get any necessary care.
Check your PROSTATE
The prostate is a gland below the bladder and in front of the rectum in men. The function of the prostate is to add fluid to semen, and its muscles help push semen through the urethra. Your prostate is the size of a walnut and weighs about 30 grams. Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer that affects men. Early-stage prostate cancer rarely causes symptoms. There is no physical self-check for the prostate however there are symptoms you should look out for:
Frequent sometimes urgent need to pee, especially at night.
Weak urine flow that starts and stops.
Pain or burning when you pee.
Loss of bladder control.
Loss of bowel control.
Painful ejaculation and erectile dysfunction.
Blood in your semen.
Pain in your lower back, hip or chest.
Pain in your penis or testicles
Risk factors to be aware of...
Your risk increases as you get older. You’re more likely to get diagnosed if you’re over 50. You’re at greater risk if you’re Black or of African ancestry. You’re more likely to develop prostate cancers that are more likely to spread. You’re also at greater risk of prostate cancer forming before age 50.
You’re two to three times more likely to get prostate cancer if a close family member has it.
How can I keep my prostate healthy?
Get regular prostate screening, it’s a blood test called a PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen). Most men should start screening at the age of 50. If you have a family history of prostate cancer, it’s a good idea to start screening at an earlier age.
Lifestyle may increase your risk of developing prostate cancer, eating healthier foods and exercise
HEART DISEASE
Heart disease describes a range of conditions that affect the heart. When your heart isn’t working well, it has trouble sending enough blood, oxygen and nutrients to your body.
You can have different symptoms of heart disease depending on what’s wrong. Heart disease symptoms may include: pounding heart or palpitations; sweating; light headedness; shortness of breath; dizziness or unexplained loss of consciousness; chest or upper body pain; pressure or heaviness; neck pain; heartburn or indigestion; nausea; swelling in your lower body, and exhaustion. Early signs of heart disease may be chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling in your legs, fatigue, dizziness. Heart disease is more likely to happen if you have certain risk factors which include: high cholesterol; high blood pressure; tobacco product use; inactive lifestyle; heart disease in your family; Type 2 diabetes; and eating unhealthy foods. You can lower your risks by working towards reaching a weight that’s healthy for you. Try to manage other conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Try to exercise daily and manage your stress levels. Eat foods low in salt and saturated fats.
Your heart has a crucial role to play, it’s important to pay attention to any warning signs. Heart disease develops over time, and identifying it early gives you the best chance of managing it well. Even if you have risk factors you can’t change, there are other things you have the power to change.
If you think you may have symptoms of heart disease, make an appointment for a health check-up.
GET SUPPORT
REACHING OUT TO YOU!
We Are Survivors is making it easier than ever to access our services, with the launch of Speaking Out - three brand new ‘spoke’ sites bringing us closer to you.
At We Are Survivors, our target is that no male survivor should be more than 40 minutes away from support. With that in mind, Speaking Out will take place within voluntary sector premises across the boroughs of Greater Manchester, strengthening community networks and developing clear and appropriate referral routes and healing pathways for male survivors.
Partnering with local community hubs or part of a charity HQ in these boroughs ensures they will always be easily accessible by public transport, by foot, or located near to public car parks. We have worked hard to ensure that those organisations we partner with share key values with We are Survivors and will add value to the life saving support we offer at We are Survivors. Speaking Out will provide the same service as you’d expect from our main offices. In the mornings we will facilitate a Drop-In service, led by the Community Development Team, which will
be open for male survivors to come along for a brew and a chat. We will be also providing our Therapeutic, Independent Sexual Violence Advisor Services at our Speaking Out locations. Each Speaking Out service will have its own identity and deliver activities specific to the area and the partnerships we develop in those areas. As with everything we do we will co-develop these sessions in collaboration with male survivors.
Currently we have three spoke sites, in Tameside, Wigan and Trafford. We’re on the hunt for two more spoke sites, so if you know of an organisation (or are an organisation!) that would make a good partnership in the ensuring no male survivor is left behind... reach out! We should talk.
As we launch our Speaking Out service we will be holding a professional open day, so we can connect with local organisations, understand your work and to promote our services. To receive an invite, please email speakingout@wearesurvivors.org.uk with the name of your borough, and we’ll be in contact.
COMMUNITY GROUPS
MEET THE TEAM
Our ‘spoke’ sites in Tameside, Trafford and Wigan will be staffed by familiar, friendly faces...
Speaking Out Tameside
Hosted by Neil.
Every Tuesday morning from 9.00am – 12.00pm.
Location: The Anthony Seddon Fund, 12 George St, Ashtonunder-Lyne OL6 6AQ.
Speaking Out Trafford
Hosted by Christopher.
Offering a Drop In every Friday.
Location: BlueSci, 54-56 Seymour Grove, Old Trafford, Manchester, M16 0LN
Speaking Out Wigan
Hosted by George.
Every Wednesday
Location: DIAS, 38, Rodney House, King St, Wigan
WN1 1BT
MONDAYS
DROP IN
A safe space to connect.
HEALTH WALK
Fresh air and good company. Join us!
MANDEM MEETUP TALKING CIRCLE
A judgement free talking circle hosted by our brothers at Mandem Meetup.
TUESDAYS
WELLBEING SESSION
A weekly session in a safe space.
THE COFFEE SHOP
Let’s grab a brew and have a chat.
THE HANGOUT
A brand new group for survivors 18-35.
THE SAFE ROOM
Confidential, peer-to-peer support groups. Talk, listen and learn.
WEDNESDAYS
THE SAFE ROOM
Confidential, peer-to-peer support groups. Talk, listen and learn.
THE WRITER’S ROOM
Get creative. All abilities welcome!
THURSDAYS
THE BUILDERS YARD (LEGO)
Come and join other survivors and get building with Lego.
THE COFFEE SHOP
Let’s grab a brew and have a chat.
THE SAFE ROOM
Confidential, peer-to-peer support groups. Talk, listen and learn.
FRIDAYS
THE ART ROOM
Express yourself artistically - all abilities!
HEALTH WALK
Fresh air and good company. Join us!
THE GARDEN AT RHS
Get out of the city for a gardening session in beautiful surroundings.
SATURDAYS
(Twice a month)
THE SAFE ROOM (ONLINE)
Confidential, peer-to-peer support groups. Talk, listen and learn.
Scan the QR code to sign up for regular updates!
GALLERY
Every issue we want to celebrate the creativity of male survivors. writing can be an important part of healing. If you’d like to share your work, send them to the e-mail on page 2.
THE HOLE PICTURE
Celebrating the art and design of overlooked works of art.
Manchester Central Library is currently hosting the world’s first exhibition celebrating the art and design of manhole and drain covers. These well-trodden yet often overlooked works of art that adorn the streets, roads and pavements of Manchester and beyond. The exhbition is the brainchild of Peter Sishton, who is part of our Expert Reference Group here at We Are Survivors. Peter told us: ““I’m honoured to have secured the world’s first exhibition celebrating manhole and drain covers at Manchester Central Library. The feedback has been incredible—it’s truly taken my breath away. The exhibition also highlights the vital work of We Are Survivors, encouraging visitors to support this amazing charity through donations. Without the counselling and ISVA support I received, I wouldn’t have had the courage or conviction to create two books and this exhibition. I have no doubt whatsoever that creative activity, in any form, is a powerful tool in processing and healing from trauma.”
MANC HOLES & BEYOND: THE EXHIBITION
Manchester Central Library, 10 April - 28 June 2025
Open Monday - Thursday 9am-8pm; Friday and Saturday 9am-5pm.
Closed Sundays and Bank Holidays
You can see lots more creativity and read some powerful words from male survivors on our website. Scan the QR code to visit our online Gallery.
PETER SISHTON
WORD
LAST THE MAKING CHANGE MEANINGFUL
Jess Glynn Research Associate University of Manchester
FOR THE LAST YEAR, PROFESSOR DAVID GADD AND I HAVE BEEN ENGAGED IN AN EXCITING PIECE OF RESEARCH MAKING CHANGE MEANINGFUL FOR ADULT MALE PRISONER-SURVIVORS OF SEXUAL ABUSE – A PROJECT FOCUSED ON UNDERSTANDING THE IMPACT OF THE WE ARE SURVIVORS ‘OUT SPOKEN’ PRISON SERVICE ON SURVIVORS IN
Recently, we got to present our initial findings at the St Mary’s SARC conference to over 200 professionals in the field of sexual harms. In our presentation, David described to the audience the pride the OUT Spoken therapists take in the creativity they bring to each session - fostering the internal sense of safety clients need to revisit traumatic experiences. One of the most moving findings was the deep gratitude many men expressed toward their therapists, often thanking them profusely for changing or even saving their lives. This transformation often involved becoming less reliant on substances, processing their abuse for the first time, and recognising that what happened to them was not their fault. The research also highlighted the complex challenges many male prisonersurvivors face. Internalised homophobia can discourage disclosure or help-seeking. Many survivors carry long histories of
addiction, gambling, or debt - often linked to the emotional toll of abuse and secrecy. While identifying as a ‘survivor’ can be empowering, many also confront the painful truth that their abusers were never brought to justice. This injustice can provoke new feelings of anger and grief, compounding the stigma of both sexual victimisation and imprisonment.
Despite the restrictive prison environment, some OUT Spoken clients have used what they’ve learned to foster positive changeacting as mentors, equality reps, and LGBTQ+ advocates. The study’s findings suggest that longer-term therapy, particularly beyond 11 sessions, can significantly improve mental health as measured against NHS benchmarks. Yet recovery is rarely linear. Lasting change requires not only therapeutic support but also broader cultural shifts across prisons, justice systems, and society. Both David and I have certainly seen how empowering male survivors to speak out is a crucial step toward holding both perpetrators and institutions accountable. To genuinely hear them, we must challenge assumptions about who survivors are and acknowledge that, without support, some do go on to cause serious harm themselves.
The Making Change Meaningful study will continue until 2029.
NO male survivor left behind
MAIN OFFICE
Unit 9 Brewery Yard Deva City Office Park Trinity Way, Salford M3 7BB
Office: 0161 236 2182
E-mail:
support@wearesurvivors.org.uk
Website: www.wearesurvivors.org.uk
OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS
24/7 Support Line 0808 500 2222 247sexualabusesupport.org.uk
Shout 85258
This is as 24/7 text service that supports people if they are feeling overwhelmed or anxious. Free and confidential.
Samaritans 116 123 (available 24 hours a day) jo@Samaritans.org.uk
Mankind 018823 334 244 (Domestic Abuse Support) Mon-Fri, 10am-4pm www.mankind.org.uk
Dad Matters
0161 344 0669 dadmatters.org.uk
Supporting Men’s Mental Wellbeing Through Community, Activity & Purpose. info@mandemmeetup.org www.mandemmeetup.org
