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3 Things The STAR Centre Want Men To Know

The STAR Centre’s services are available to everyone, of any sexuality, ethnicity, and gender. Read on to discover the 3 things we want male survivors of sexual violence to know.

[TW: Mentions of Sexual Violence]

[Read Time: 1-2 mins]

1. If anyone does anything sexual to you without your consent, this is sexual violence. 

There is a common misconception that men are somehow less affected by sexual violence, or that it doesn’t happen to them. Everyone has the right to not want to do something sexual, and to have this be respected. Men are no different. If anyone has done something sexual to you without your consent, this is a form of sexual violence. 

2. We will believe you if you tell us you’ve experienced sexual violence.

A fear of not being believed can keep many survivors of sexual violence from coming forward. The STAR Centre will never question you on the details of your experience, or judge you for what has happened. We believe you, and we will support you. 

We recognise that survivors of sexual violence are the experts in their own lives and provide them with resources and support they need to make their own choices about their healing and recovery. This means it is important to us that you access support in a space that feels safe and healing to you. All of our staff are trained in understanding the impact of trauma and how it can affect survivors, so they can provide appropriate support.

3. You are just as deserving of support as any other survivor of sexual violence.

Men are often underrepresented in discussions around sexual violence. Assumptions that men (or even just people that present as masculine) would be more capable of fighting off an unwanted sexual advance, or that they would be less affected by an incident of sexual violence are rooted in patriarchy and sexism. Attitudes such as these cause further stigmatisation of men-survivors of sexual violence where misogyny, homophobia and victim-blaming come together.

We believe that all survivors of sexual violence should get the support they need, in a way that feels right for them. If you or someone you know have experienced sexual violence, you can reach out to us for support.