We Are Survivors, a Greater Manchester-based organisation dedicated to supporting male survivors of sexual abuse, has officially launched its 16th birthday celebrations with a pronounced initiative entitled the “Year of Consent”. Founded in 2009 by Duncan Craig OBE, the organisation has become the largest specialist male survivor support centre in the UK, aiming to amplify the voices and experiences of male survivors.
The recent years have seen We Are Survivors actively participate in discussions around male victims of violence, contributing to noteworthy developments in governmental strategies and policies, including the Victims Strategy and the Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy. Notably, they have advocated for a distinct strategy dedicated to men and boys, arguing that current frameworks often categorise male survivors within the broader scope of Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), which does not adequately address their unique experiences.
In recognition of their contributions, Alex Davies-Jones MP, Minister for Victims and Violence Against Women and Girls, expressed her gratitude, noting the importance of instilling an understanding of consent in younger generations. Jess Phillips MP, Minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls, also commended the organisation’s efforts to promote discussions on consensual and healthy relationships, stressing that the “Year of Consent” arrives at a vital moment for societal dialogue on these issues.
As part of its birthday celebrations, We Are Survivors has released the latest issue of its magazine, “Beyond The Silence”, and launched a podcast special to further engage the community in these critical conversations. Plans for the “Year of Consent” include the production of a documentary, live theatre, visual arts, and a Festival of Consent set to take place in January 2026. These events aim to foster discussions about consent, particularly significant given the 8,000+ survivors who have sought support from the organisation in the past 16 years.
Duncan Craig reflected on the journey of We Are Survivors, stating, “I might not have had We Are Survivors 19+ years ago when I needed help, but I’m determined to ensure that every survivor now has the best and right access to support. None of us should ever feel silenced.” The organisation’s commitment to addressing such an essential topic highlights the continuing necessity to understand and discuss consent within the context of male survivors and the greater community. The official start of the 16th birthday programme starts, ushering in a year aimed at breaking the silence surrounding these crucial issues.
Source: Noah Wire Services
- https://www.wearesurvivors.org.uk/about-us/ – This URL provides information about We Are Survivors, a Greater Manchester-based organisation dedicated to supporting male survivors of sexual abuse. It highlights their mission and initiatives, aligning with the article’s description of their work.
- https://www.sv2.org.uk/help-support/supporting-male-survivors/ – This URL supports the broader context of male survivors of sexual violence, discussing the challenges they face and the available support systems, which is relevant to We Are Survivors’ advocacy.
- https://www.survivorsuk.org/about-us/ – SurvivorsUK provides national support for male survivors, offering insights into the challenges faced by this demographic and the importance of tailored support services, similar to We Are Survivors’ goals.
Noah Fact Check Pro
The draft above was created using the information available at the time the story first
emerged. We’ve since applied our fact-checking process to the final narrative, based on the criteria listed
below. The results are intended to help you assess the credibility of the piece and highlight any areas that may
warrant further investigation.
Freshness check
Score:
9
Notes:
The narrative mentions specific upcoming events in 2025, indicating recent and timely information. However, it does not reference any very recent news or changes that would suggest it is entirely new.
Quotes check
Score:
8
Notes:
Quotes from Alex Davies-Jones MP and Jess Phillips MP are included, but their original sources or dates could not be verified online. Duncan Craig’s quote is also provided without an earlier reference.
Source reliability
Score:
6
Notes:
The narrative originates from a press release, which typically has a lower reliability score compared to established news outlets. However, it discusses real organisations and initiatives.
Plausability check
Score:
9
Notes:
The claims about We Are Survivors and its initiatives are plausible and align with the organisation’s mission. The involvement of known figures like Alex Davies-Jones MP and Jess Phillips MP adds credibility.
Overall assessment
Verdict (FAIL, OPEN, PASS): OPEN
Confidence (LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH): MEDIUM
Summary:
The narrative appears timely and plausible, focusing on a real organisation’s initiatives. However, it is based on a press release, which typically requires additional verification. Quotes lack earlier references, but the involvement of known figures supports the narrative’s credibility.
