January 19, 2001 10:29: Men have been victims of sex crimes for as long as women, but do not get the support women do. In Greenwich and Lewisham 162 men have suffered indecent assaults or rapes since 1998. Anil Dawar talks to Richard Curen, co-ordinator of Survivors, Londons sole male rape victim support service.
TONY was feeling low, he had just split up with his girlfriend when he bumped into Frank. They got chatting and Tony was invited back to Franks home for a drink.
After a few drinks, Tony fell asleep. He awoke to find his host on top of him.
As he struggled to free himself, Frank became threatening and forced Tony to be still. Then he raped him.
Most male rape victims are children. This may be because they come forward more readily, but it may also be because they are more vulnerable.
But every year more and more adult victims are coming forward, says Richard Curen, co-ordinator of Survivors, a group of specially-trained therapists.
Between November 1998 and November 2000, the number of men subjected to rape in Greenwich was 19 and in Lewisham 10, which is alarming when compared to Bromleys total of three.
The group is trained to deal with the problems men face after being subjected to a sexual attack, through counselling and support groups.
He said: During the actual rape, male victims feel the same as females, they freeze and are very fearful.
After the rape, men feel different to women. The number of support groups set up to help women, and police attitudes to female victims, makes it easier for them to come forward. But men do not get the same support.
When Tony went to the police to report his rape, he was made to feel weak and as if he had brought the crime upon himself.
Quite often, when a man comes forward and reports a rape, his sexuality is called into question.
In a way, men now are treated as women victims were treated 30 years ago as if they had asked for it in some way.
Richard believes our social values mean men should not be seen as weak, and as being raped is one of the most degrading events anyone could suffer, men would not admit to it.
Now our social values are changing, it is more acceptable for men to be emotionally open.
With support groups like Survivors, men are now able to come forward more frequently.
The Survivors helpline number is 020 7613 0808 or call 079 49994886.
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