EXCLUSIVE: Male Domestic Abuse Victim Speaks Out

A Highland man who was forced from his home by an abusive partner is speaking out about his ordeal.

The man - who wants to be known as 'John' - was subjected to a series of violent attacks by his wife.

The campaign of abuse was so sevre that he sought support from north charity CoVASS, who provided him with refuge in 'safehouse' accommodation for several months.

Now he's calling on other male victims of abuse not to suffer in silence.

Listen to our EXCLUSIVE report on the issue of male domestic abuse across the Highlands and Moray...

Speaking exclusively to MFR News, John said: "When it comes to Abuse, we normally hear about women.

"But men can also suffer from abuse from their partner and are frightened to come out and ask for help.

"I was subjected to abuse: it got so bad I had to leave my wife and kids with nowhere to go or anyone to ask for help."

John only approached CoVASS for help after talking to a friend about his situation.

"When I contacted CoVASS they were able to give me a home and loads of advice that made my life a lot better.

"The grass felt a lot greener and I could have my kids come and stay with me too.

"Now I have a new better life, new house, more confidence and no fear of my past coming back to haunt me."

MFR Reporter Derek Ferguson speaks to Elspeth Mackenzie from CoVASS about 'John's' case...

Project worker with CoVASS Elspeth Mackenzie said: "He didn't want to be subjected to the abuse anymore, he wanted to leave but didn't have anywhere to go.

"We were able to offer him refuge accommodation in an anonymous location.

"It's improved his life a lot, I think he feels more confident.

"He's been able to find his own house, he's been able to see his kids and get his life back on track."

The charity secured lottery funding last year to run a project supporting men suffering domestic abuse in the north.

Mrs Mackenzie praised 'John' sharing his story and raising the plight of male victims of violence.

She said: "We understand it is hard for some men to come forward, maybe it's difficult to admit you are a victim of domestic abuse.

"But if you do come forward, you're story will be treated as confidential and we will do everything we can to support you."