As we mark Men’s Mental Health Month, we want to take this opportunity to highlight the importance of recognising and supporting the mental health needs of men who are victims and survivors of non-recent/historical institutional child abuse in Northern Ireland.
For many male survivors, speaking about their experiences or seeking help can be challenging. Stigma, fear of not being believed and long-held expectations around masculinity can all act as barriers to reaching out. Yet the need for support is no less significant.
During Men’s Mental Health Month, we encourage all organisations, practitioners and community groups to be aware of the supports available and signpost survivors wherever possible.
If you would like any further information, please contact the Office of the Commissioner for Survivors of Institutional Childhood Abuse on +44 (0) 28 9054 4985 or email info@cosica-ni.org.
The Victims and Survivors Service (VSS) in Northern Ireland has a service dedicated to supporting the health and wellbeing of victims and survivors of non-recent/historical institutional child abuse. VSS can also make sure survivors who are living outside Northern Ireland have access to the supports and services they need: https://www.victimsservice.org/