New figures show the disparity in the number of male victims reporting domestic violence compared to women.

Sussex Police statistics show the number of recorded domestic violence crimes last year on men was 230 while those on women totalled 883 – nearly four times as many.

National statistics show up to 40% of domestic violence victims are male and one victim fears the lower number in Sussex could lead to a lack of services here.

Chris Macleod formed the Support4men charity and is now campaigning to highlight the issue.

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He has teamed up with fellow charity Mankind to create a summer of action to encourage more men to come forward.

He said: “My plan is to hire space in Jubilee Library and have an area exploring the myths of DV and how men feel when it is reported as a female specific crime, the national average is 40% of victims are male.

“This in itself would lead me to believe the FOI figures are perhaps slightly below what one would expect.

“There were times when I attempted to report my ex-girlfriend and ended up arrested, and this I know is not an isolated incident of this happening.

“If the councils claim services are offered on a supply and demand basis then there are by far enough victims to justify funding a service for heterosexual male victims in the area.”

The events, which could include a live music concert, would take place in locations including Brighton, Lewes, Crawley and Worthing over the summer.

A Sussex Police spokeswoman said: “Domestic abuse can be a particularly taboo subject for male victims. There are both similarities and differences in the way men and women experience it. Some of the responses to violence from a partner are the same. Whoever you are, being hurt by someone you love and trust can be devastating.

“Men have exactly the same rights as women to be safe in their own homes.

“As with women, if you are a man experiencing domestic abuse and you need emergency help, please call 999. If you report domestic abuse you can be assured that Sussex Police will take your report seriously.”