DOMESTIC violence against men is on the rise in Ireland as over 5,000 reached out for help in the last year.
A confidential support service for male victims of domestic abuse said it received 5,550 allegations of abuse in 2016.
Amen’s annual report for 2016 shows that most of the abuse reported was of a verbal or psychological nature, with reports of physical, social and economic abuse also recorded.
However, while psychological and verbal abuse is the main type of abuse being disclosed, the charity noted that several types of abuse may be reported in the same incident.
The support charity, who also have a helpline, said more than 3,700 claims of verbal and psychological abuse were made in 2016.
In the allegations, there were reports of name calling, constant criticism, being threatened with physical abuse, financial control, isolation from family and friends and being stalked and harassed.
Last year, there were 819 claims of physical abuse - representing more than 50 per cent rise since 2015 - which included being beaten, bitten, kicked and punched and being stabbed.
Amen said that overall, they recorded a 35 per cent rise in its activity rate in 2016 compared to 2015, including phone calls, emails, one to one sessions and assisting with court appointments.
Speaking on the the publication of their report, Amen said: "The topic of abuse is now more widely spoken about than ever before.
"This has in turn enabled a lot more victims to come forward and speak about it and seek help.
"There is still a long way to go to fulfil the service level required to support victims of domestic abuse.
"However with the continued support of funders, both private and public, we hope to build on and continue to improve all of the services which we provide to the men who need it for many years to come."
