We Are Survivors, a leading male survivor organization based in Greater Manchester, is celebrating its 16th birthday with a year focused on consent. Founded in 2009 by Duncan Craig OBE, a survivor of sexual abuse, rape, and exploitation, We Are Survivors has become the largest specialist male survivor support center in the UK.
Over the past 16 years, We Are Survivors has been a crucial part of amplifying the voices of male survivors in the UK. From popular TV shows like Hollyoaks and Coronation Street to award-winning productions like RuPaul’s Drag Race UK and Baby Reindeer, male survivors have been at the forefront of public awareness thanks to the organization’s efforts.
We Are Survivors has also been actively involved in government initiatives, such as the development of the Victims Strategy in 2018 and the first-ever government position paper on male victims of violence against women and girls in 2019 and 2022. The organization has been a strong advocate for preventing sexual offenses and providing support to those impacted.
Both Alex Davies-Jones MP, Minister for Victims and Violence Against Women and Girls, and Jess Phillips MP, Minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls, have extended their birthday wishes to We Are Survivors. Davies-Jones emphasizes the importance of educating future generations about consent, while Phillips commends the organization’s dedication to promoting conversations about healthy relationships.
While We Are Survivors remains committed to tackling violence against women and girls, the organization has long called for a separate strategy for men and boys. To address this issue, We Are Survivors recently co-authored a Greater Manchester strategy and plan with Professor David Gadd on behalf of Deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester – Kate Green. Green sends her well wishes for the organization’s 16th birthday.
As part of their birthday celebrations, We Are Survivors has planned a “Year of Consent,” which will include various events and projects, such as a documentary, live theatre, visual arts, spoken word, and a Festival of Consent in January 2026. The organization hopes that this year will spark conversations and raise awareness about the issue of consent, which is crucial for the thousands of survivors who have turned to We Are Survivors for support.
Founder and CEO of We Are Survivors, Duncan Craig OBE, reflects on the growth of the organization and its impact on survivors. He emphasizes the importance of ensuring that every survivor has access to the support they need, and hopes that their Year of Consent will help break the silence surrounding this issue.
We Are Survivors’ 16th Birthday Year officially begins on February 5, 2025. The organization’s latest edition of Beyond The Silence magazine, which outlines details of their Year of Consent, can be found in various locations across Greater Manchester or online at www.issuu.com/survivorsmanchester.
