If I leave where will I go?

Leaving your home doesn’t affect your right to return, your tenancy rights or ownership of the home. Whether you rent or own your home, you have the same rights. Being assaulted by somebody you know is still a crime and you have a right to be protected under the law and can report this to the police to begin a criminal investigation if you wish.

There are a handful of projects around the country that offer accommodation to male victims of domestic abuse. MALE advice line will be able to tell you if there are any in your area. Privately rented accommodation could be expensive staying with your mates or family will probably be your first choice.

If you are homeless as a result of domestic abuse, your local council housing can arrange emergency accommodation. They may ask you to provide evidence that you are being abused, which is when keeping a record of everything can be useful. Emergency accommodation is usually in a bed and breakfast and will be for a limited period only. To apply for this you need to approach your local council housing department. Your local housing department will provide you with a list of bed and breakfasts in the area and single male hostels.

You may decide that it is safe to return to your home if you get an injunction.

There are two types:

1. Non molestation order

This is aimed at preventing your partner or ex-partner from using threatening violence against you or your children;

2. Occupation order

An Occupation order regulates who can live in the family home and can also restrict your abuser from entering the surrounding area.