Domestic violence: when men are affected
Equal opportunities officer: Men's protection centre now also in Chemnitz
Domestic violence is a phenomenon that affects all levels of society. It includes physical, sexual, psychological, social and economic violence. When we think of those affected, we tend to focus primarily on women. However, according to criminal police statistics, around 20 per cent of those affected by violence are male. There are twelve drop-in centres with 43 places for men throughout Germany, four of which are in Saxony: in Dresden, Leipzig, Plauen and now also in Chemnitz.
The men's protection centre of the Chemnitz City Mission can be contacted on 0371 600 4858 and via the e-mail address mse(at)stadtmission-chemnitz.de. Affected men (with their children) receive counselling - also anonymously -, support and protection.
In addition to a fully equipped living space, there is help and support in clarifying the current life situation by competent social workers as well as support in developing new life perspectives. The living space is designed to be barrier-free and pets can also be brought in by prior arrangement.
Male victims often find it difficult to talk about their experiences of violence. Traditional role models and prejudices - such as that of the strong man who can defend himself - favour a climate of silence and shame among those affected. As a result, seeking counselling and help is also a major hurdle for men.
"It is therefore all the more important that, in addition to providing support services, public awareness of the extent and consequences of violence against men must be created. It must be a task for society as a whole to sensitise the public to the issue, combat violence and offer help," says Pia Hamann, Equal Opportunities Officer for the City of Chemnitz. "Help and counselling is important and must also become a matter of course for men!"