POLICE received more than 5,600 reports of men being the victim of domestic abuse in Lancashire, new figures have shown.

The statistics, released via a freedom of information request, show that reported abuse cases had risen by around 800 on the previous year.

The figures were requested by anti-domestic abuse charity the ManKind Initiative to encourage more victims to come forward.

Mark Brooks, chairman of the ManKind Initiative, said: “The number of men coming forward to the police sends a clear reminder to those who come into contact and support victims of domestic abuse across Lancashire that they must ensure there are properly resourced support services for male victims.”

The figures show that in 2016, 5,604 men across Lancashire reported they had been victims of domestic abuse. That figure was 4,817 the previous year.

The figures for female victims of domestic abuse were 21,039 in 2016 and 18,175 in 2015.

A police spokesman said: “These figures highlight domestic abuse is not exclusive to age, gender, social background or profession. It can happen to anyone from any community and in any walk of life.

“We know male victims often feel embarrassed and just accept their situation which can lead to victims not coming forward to seek help and report their abuser. It can be difficult for men to say they need help, and to know where to go once they’ve decided to talk to someone. They may also worry that they won’t be believed.

“Domestic abuse is serious whether it happens to a man or woman. You don’t need to suffer in silence; there is help out there for all victims.”

Ian McNicholl, domestic abuse survivor and ambassador for the ManKind Initiative, said: “I never came forward to the police when I was experiencing abuse and it nearly cost me my life. These figures show there are men right across Lancashire who have come forward and told the police.

“Therefore if you are experiencing domestic abuse or suffering from the symptoms of domestic abuse, you are not alone and help is out there for you. Please don’t be like me, please call the police or speak with friends and/or family and get the help you need.”