This is one of two in-person workshops using research, lived experience and creative practice to strengthen professional understanding of, and responses to, domestic abuse and sexual violence affecting men in same sex male intimate relationships. Research shows that around 1 in 3 Scottish men in same-sex relationships have experienced some form of abuse, yet many face significant barriers to disclosure and access to culturally safe support from services, including shame, stigma and prejudice.

The sessions combine a brief research presentation with a live verbatim performance extract from SAFE, a play developed from survivor experiences and performed by actors. This is followed by interactive and reflexive practice, supporting participants to reflect on lived experience, professional response and their role within systems and services.

The workshops are aimed at professionals working across health and social care, policing, policy, education and academia in Lothian or affecting Lothian policy or practice, particularly those involved in domestic abuse, sexual health, mental health or wider trauma-informed work.

Both workshops cover the same content, and participants only need to attend one.