MenAsWell is the Dutch expertise center for male, trans, and non-binary survivors of sexual, partner, and ex-partner violence.
We provide specialized support, advocate for recognition and rights regarding violence and consent, and offer education for both communities and professionals. Through psycho-education, training, and policy advocacy, we strive to create a society where all men+ are safe, heard, and supported.
About MenAsWell
MenAsWell is the leading Dutch expertise center dedicated to empowering male, trans, and non-binary survivors of sexual, partner, and ex-partner violence. Our mission is to break the silence and address the unique challenges faced by men+ in navigating trauma, reporting abuse, and accessing support networks. By increasing awareness and battling stigma through expert resources, MenAsWell enables survivors to share their stories and find community.
Our Services
We offer a range of specialized services designed to meet the needs of survivors and professionals, including:
Confidential Support: Immediate emotional support and guidance for men+ affected by sexual or partner violence.
Peer Support Groups: In collaboration with Slachtofferhulp Nederland. Safe and inclusive spaces for survivors to connect and share experiences.
Education: Workshops, masterclasses and materials about understanding trauma, consent, and healthy relationships.
Training Sessions: Educational programs for healthcare providers, educators, and community organizations to recognize and respond to male+ survivors effectively.
Advocacy and Policy Work: Collaborating with government, municipalities and non-profit stakeholders to improve laws, funding, and resources related to sexual violence and consent.
Why Our Work Matters
1 in 5 men will experience sexual violence at some point in their lives. Trans and non-binary individuals face even higher risks and often struggle to find services tailored to their needs. MenAsWell is committed to addressing these gaps by providing knowledgeable, empathetic support and driving social change. Our evidence-based approach ensures that survivors and their families receive the care, respect, and validation they deserve, regardless of gender or background.
Resources for Professionals
Are you a healthcare provider, therapist, or educator? MenAsWell equips professionals with the latest research, referral pathways, and best practices on supporting male, trans, and non-binary survivors of sexual, partner, and ex-partner violence. Contact us for customized trainings and consultation.
Join the Movement
Help us create a more inclusive and supportive society in the Netherlands. Donate, volunteer, or partner with MenAsWell to expand our reach and impact. Together, we can break taboos, promote consent, and ensure that everyone has access to safety and support.
MenAsWell is de Nederlandse stichting voor mannelijke slachtoffers van seksueel geweld.
Support for male survivors
Support for male+ and LGBTIQ+ victims
At MenAsWell, we understand that seeking help after sexual violence, abuse or inappropriate behaviour can be a major hurdle – especially for men, trans people and non-binary people within the LGBTIQ+ community.
Men+ are more likely to experience shame, misunderstanding or fear of exclusion, which makes them less likely to seek help. That is why we offer a safe, accessible and inclusive support centre for anyone affected by these kinds of experiences.
Our foundation specialises in tailored support:
Personal guidance: From initial contact to recovery, we offer a listening ear and help you think about the right next steps.
Access to specialist agencies: Our website makes it easy to find support organisations such as the GGD, Centrum Seksueel Geweld, Moviera and Veilig Thuis. These agencies have experience in supporting LGBTIQ+ victims, offer a safe place and work together with relevant professionals.
Holistic support: Our services include recovery-supporting activities such as yoga, psychotherapy and trauma counselling. We also organise workshops and group activities where you can find strength in connecting with others.
Help with reporting or filing a complaint: If you are experiencing discrimination, intimidation or sexual violence, we will help you find the right way to report it or file a complaint.
Events & community support: We provide meeting places where you can be yourself without judgement, such as our presence at Queerwatch at the Milkshake Festival.
Information and psychoeducation: Through our online channels and training courses, we provide information about boundaries, consent, recovery and social safety. In doing so, we aim to break the taboo and contribute to awareness in society.
You are not alone
The Centre for Sexual Violence, Moviera, Veilig Thuis and other partners are explicitly there for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer people. They always offer a safe and accessible place where you can go for help and advice free of charge and anonymously. Even if you find it difficult to tell your story, professional counsellors are there for you.
Feel free to contact MenAsWell for support options, or visit our help page for an overview of specialised agencies. Together, we will ensure that no one feels excluded or unsafe.
Knowledge for community and professionals
At MenAsWell, we believe that knowledge and awareness are essential to prevent sexual violence and empower male, trans and non-binary victims. Our knowledge and education section offers in-depth information and practical tools to support organisations and communities in their approach to sexual violence.
What do our workshops offer?
Our workshops, training courses and lectures focus on:
Increasing knowledge about sexual violence against men+ and LGBTIQ+ people, an often unknown and neglected topic.
Normalising conversations about boundaries and consent and recognising signs of sexual abuse.
Strengthening resilience and confidential advisors within organisations.
Practical tools for professionals in healthcare, education, welfare and policy to support victims effectively and empathetically.
Providing real-life stories and interactive working methods to raise awareness and break the taboo.
Who are the workshops intended for?
We provide our educational programmes for:
LGBTIQ+ organisations and community groups
Schools, universities and youth organisations
Healthcare professionals, social workers and confidential advisors
Government institutions and policymakers
Employers and companies that want to invest in social safety
Our experienced trainers combine up-to-date knowledge about sexual and relational safety, trauma and inclusion with personal stories and practical examples.
Why is this important?
Many men, trans and non-binary people who are victims of sexual violence or inappropriate behaviour experience barriers to seeking help—due to shame, ignorance or a lack of recognition within healthcare and society. Education and open dialogue contribute to better identification, greater understanding and real change in behaviour, policy and the support available.
Would you like more information or to book a workshop?
Would you like to know more about our training courses or a tailor-made programme? Please feel free to contact MenAsWell. Together, we are working towards a safer, more inclusive and more aware United Kingdom.
Visibility for advocacy
At MenAsWell, we believe that increasing visibility is vital for creating real change. Our powerful online and offline campaigns are designed to raise awareness about consent and sexual violence against men+, trans, and non-binary individuals, with a special focus on the LGBT+ community. By breaking the silence and challenging persistent stigma, we aim to foster greater understanding and solidarity in Dutch society.
Our Campaigns
We run impactful national and regional awareness campaigns throughout the year, using social media, community partnerships, and public events to reach diverse audiences. Our content highlights the realities and challenges faced by male+ survivors, promotes open conversations about consent, and encourages everyone to take an active stand against sexual and partner violence.
A key example is Consent is not a Cockblock. Through bold messages, storytelling, and creative visuals, we put the voices and experiences of LGBT+ survivors at the forefront, inspiring both empathy and action.
Why Visibility Matters
Greater visibility ensures that survivors feel recognized, supported, and less alone. Raising public awareness also helps reduce harmful stereotypes, strengthens community ties, and encourages bystanders to intervene and support victims. MenAsWell advocates for a society where discussions about boundary crossing and consent are normalized and every voice matters.
Get Involved
Join us in amplifying these important messages. Follow MenAsWell on social media, share our campaigns, and help build a community where consent, inclusion, and safety are everyone’s right. For collaboration and partnership opportunities, or to learn more about our advocacy work, contact our team or visit our campaign overview page.
Informatie over Seksueel Misbruik van Mannen en Jongens
Wat is Seksueel Misbruik bij Mannen en Jongens?
Seksueel misbruik van mannen en jongens is een serieus en vaak onderbelicht probleem. Het omvat elke vorm van ongewenst seksueel gedrag, van aanranding tot verkrachting. Mannen en jongens, inclusief homo-mannen, kunnen net zo goed als vrouwen slachtoffer worden van seksueel geweld.
Tekenen en Gevolgen van Seksueel Misbruik
Seksueel misbruik kan leiden tot een breed scala aan fysieke en emotionele problemen, zoals angst, depressie, posttraumatische stressstoornis (PTSS), en relatieproblemen. Slachtoffers kunnen ook worstelen met schuldgevoelens en schaamte.
Hulp en Ondersteuning voor Slachtoffers
Het is cruciaal dat mannen en jongens die seksueel misbruik hebben ervaren toegang hebben tot de juiste hulp en ondersteuning. Bij MenAsWell bieden we vertrouwelijke en professionele hulp aan slachtoffers van seksueel geweld. Onze diensten omvatten:
Individuele en Groepstherapie: Praat met ervaringsdeskundigen en professionele therapeuten.
Online en Offline Hulplijnen: Beschikbaar voor onmiddellijke ondersteuning.
Workshops en Trainingen: Leer over herstel en hoe je kunt omgaan met de gevolgen van misbruik.
Waarom Hulp Zoeken?
Het zoeken van hulp kan een belangrijke stap zijn naar herstel. Professionele ondersteuning kan helpen bij het verwerken van trauma's, het herstellen van zelfvertrouwen en het opbouwen van gezonde relaties.
Veelgestelde Vragen (FAQ)
Wat moet ik doen als ik seksueel misbruik heb ervaren? Neem direct contact op met een vertrouwenspersoon of een hulporganisatie zoals MenAsWell. Onze therapeuten staan klaar om je te helpen. Jij kunt ook meer informatie vinden over hulp op deze pagina.
Zijn er specifieke hulpbronnen voor LHBT+ slachtoffers? Ja, we bieden inclusieve zorg en ondersteuning specifiek gericht op de LHBT+ gemeenschap. Onze workshops en therapieën zijn afgestemd op hun unieke behoeften.
Hoe kan ik deelnemen aan een steungroep? Meld je aan via onze website of neem contact op met onze hulplijn voor meer informatie over beschikbare groepen en sessies.
Contact
Heb je hulp nodig of wil je meer informatie? Bezoek onze contactpagina. Je staat er niet alleen voor.