Local Director Wants to Break the Silence on Domestic Abuse of Men
Richard Elson launches crowdfunder for film about the issue
Picture: Richard Elson
April 15, 2024
An Acton-based director is aiming to increase awareness of domestic violence against males in a short film called ‘Breaking the Silence’.
Richard Elson is looking for crowdfunding for the project which addresses the often-overlooked issue. Statistics reveal that one in three victims of domestic abuse is male, equating to 751,000 men each year in the UK.
‘Breaking the Silence’ is believed to be the first film drama to bring this issue to light. The filmmakers have worked with charities within the sector to ensure the script is an authentic depiction of the relationship it portrays. Charities like the Paul Lavelle Foundation, Fort Alice and the ManKind Initiative, which provide services to these men, have been instrumental in helping with research.
One in ten men who attempt suicide have been a victim of domestic abuse according to official figures and studies show that, due to gender stereotypes men are less likely to be believed by authorities when they report an incident.
Filming is due to take place in June, with post-production in the Autumn and the finished film ready for Domestic Abuse Awareness Month in October.
Richard Elson says, “One third of domestic abuse victims in the UK are male yet there are currently no fiction films that tackle the issue as a central storyline. With ‘Breaking the Silence’ we intend to shine a light on this and draw people’s attention to something which could very well be affecting someone they know.”
To back the project on KickStarter go to this page.
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