Mark Brooks with Rae Bonney - January 2025

It was a long-awaited honour to speak with UK men’s health advocate Mark Brooks OBE, where we unpacked the often-dismissed issue of domestic and family violence against men and boys. As a sector leader in male health, education, inclusion, and domestic abuse, Mark brings over 25 years of experience and thought leadership to this important topic. He has played a pivotal role in championing the rights of male victims through his work with organisations like the The ManKind Initiative in the UK, which continues to raise awareness and provide critical support to men facing domestic abuse. Mark's recent achievements include leading the campaign for a Men's Health Strategy for England, publishing influential reports on male suicide and boys' education, and raising the profile of male victims of domestic abuse. He also leads the successful INTERNATIONAL MEN'S DAY (UK) LTD. platform, which engaged over 800 organisations in 2024. Historically, the gender-specific needs of male victims have been overlooked in both research and service provision, making this discussion essential. Through our discussion, Mark and I aimed at sparking a broader conversation, bringing men and boys into the dialogue, exploring their involvement in ending domestic violence, the unique challenges men face in harmful relationships, as well as barriers to effective support. For listeners, I want exercise some self disclosure and reflection - also a heartfelt apology to Mark. Great friend of mine and the show, Mike Hagan, who also expertly produces my podcast, bought to my attention in his incredibly kind, thoughtful, and generous manner—that during the conversation, I became a bit of an interrupter, cutter offerer and over talker of Mark. Mike, in his usual gracious way, acknowledged my enthusiasm and intent as noble, but still, I want to own it, disclose it and learn from it as I listen through the show. Anyway, in any case I hope you enjoy our conversation ❤️