There has been a change seen at shelters that provide a refuge for family members faced by violence in the home. Even though 90% of those who knock on the door of the shelter in the northern city of Oulu are women, there was a sharp rise in the number of men seeking refuge last year.
The reason, however, was the same—domestic violence. And, often this violence in part stems from alcohol or drug abuse.
"A man can be a victim in the home, just as a woman can. The gender divide is seen in general that the most serious cases of violence are carried out by men against women," says Niina Haapa-aho, the service director for the Mother and Child Homes and Shelters Association of Oulu.
More elderly
Growing numbers of the elderly are also being seen among those fleeing domestic violence. Often, they have suffered years of physical or psychological abuse.
"The abuser may be a spouse of many decades. It can be an adult child or a neighbour or someone living in the same building. These older people fear them and so seek a refuge," explains Hanne Puurunen, a team leader at the Oulu shelter.
Niina Haapa-aho adds that these problems have always existed, but now it is now somehow more allowed to talk about them.
"The nature of violence and the phenomenon have become more visible."
These shelters offer victims a place to stay for a few days, up to a few months. Residence costs are usually covered by social services authorities. In addition to that, or as an alternative to a place to stay, counselling and non-residential services are also available.
One of a nationwide network of mother and child homes and shelters, the facility in Oulu has clients from around the country. Sometimes, a victim feels even safer by seeking a refuge far away from home.