A NEW regional campaign has been launched aimed at reassuring male survivors of sexual violence that they're not alone.

The charity Survivors West Yorkshire, which provides support and works to raise awareness, is spearheading the initiative.

As part of the month-long campaign, adverts are being carried on billboards and buses and will be broadcast via TV and radio.

Targeted at males aged 16 and over, the venture – which coincides with the 20th anniversary of the first-ever Survivors West Yorkshire awareness-raising campaign – will spotlight the help that's available.

Robert Balfour, founder and chief executive officer of the charity, says: "We know that male survivors of sexual violence are often reluctant to come forward, but this can have a devastating impact on their lives and recovery. Therefore, this campaign is about breaking down the barriers that might prevent men from getting the help they need.

"Our wider ambition is to send a clear and hopeful message to survivors that they are not alone.

"We want to reinforce that they are far more than their sexual violence experience. Recovery growth is very possible.

"The campaign, the largest-ever of its kind in the UK, is targeted at male survivors of sexual violence and those who support them, both personally and professionally.

"We aim to challenge the stigma and stereotypes associated with male victims of sexual violence, and encourage survivors to seek help. By bringing male survivors into the wider community focus, the adverts will provide much-needed reinforcement that resources and support services are available.

"If you are a male survivor of sexual violence, please know that you are not alone. There are resources and support services available to you. Please reach out for help via survivorswestyorkshire.org.uk, or the national sexual violence survivors support line on freephone 0808 500 2222."

The campaign is supported by a collaboration of funders and is being delivered with help from agencies Emporia Marketing and Bauer Media.

Mr Balfour adds that Survivors West Yorkshire welcomes publication of a recent report that will pave the way for further support.

He says: "The report – commissioned by Tracy Brabin, mayor of West Yorkshire – will begin the process of co-designing, with male survivors, a new and progressive strategy to actively support their needs.

"This strategy will run in parallel with the current national and local Violence Against Women and Girls strategies."

For further information about Survivors West Yorkshire, visit survivorswestyorkshire.org.uk.