We Are Survivors, a leading male survivor organization based in Greater Manchester, has launched its 16th birthday celebrations with a focus on consent. Founded in 2009 by survivor of sexual abuse, rape, and sexual exploitation, Duncan Craig OBE, the organization has grown to become the largest specialist male survivor support center in the UK.
In its 16 years, We Are Survivors has been at the forefront of advocating for male survivors’ voices to be heard in the UK. From appearing in popular TV shows to winning awards and breaking the silence on male sexual harms, the organization has been an influential force in raising awareness and promoting support for male survivors.
We Are Survivors has also been involved in the development of government strategies and policies to tackle violence against women and girls, a long-standing issue the organization has been committed to addressing. Alex Davies-Jones MP, Minister for Victims and Violence Against Women and Girls, expressed her gratitude to the organization and emphasized the importance of consent education from a young age.
Jess Phillips MP, Minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls, also extended her birthday wishes and praised the organization’s dedication to promoting conversations about consensual and healthy relationships. She highlighted the crucial role that everyone plays in these discussions and looked forward to collaborating with We Are Survivors in their efforts.
While We Are Survivors remains committed to tackling violence against women and girls, the organization has long campaigned for a separate strategy for men and boys. In the absence of a specific national strategy, the organization recently collaborated with Professor David Gadd to launch a Greater Manchester strategy and plan, supported by Deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester Kate Green.
The organization’s 16th birthday year will be marked with a ‘Year of Consent’, which includes a broad range of events and initiatives such as a documentary, live theatre, visual arts, spoken word, and a Festival of Consent in January 2026. The organization hopes that this year-long focus on consent will spark important conversations and raise awareness about the issue of consent, which many survivors were unable to give.
Founder and Chief Executive Officer Duncan Craig OBE expressed his gratitude for the growth of the organization and its impact on the lives of male survivors. He stressed the importance of ensuring that all survivors have access to the right support and that no one should ever feel silenced.
The ‘Year of Consent’ officially commences on Wednesday 5 February, 2025. We Are Survivors invites everyone to join in their celebration and be a part of the conversation about consent. Beyond The Silence magazine Issue 5, which features details of the ‘Year of Consent’, can be found in various locations across Greater Manchester and online at www.issuu.com/survivorsmanchester.
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