Paul Campbell: Director

Student Advisor: University of Manchester

My previous experience working as a volunteer mentor within secondary schools provided me with the impetus to start training as a teacher. Unfortunately; due to the bureaucracy and insufficient support to young adults who were outside the ideal grades criteria; had social, economic or other issues; prevented me from continuing.

Though this experience I had witnessed many hundreds of disaffected young adults, even mature adults who require someone to speak to in a safe, open and non-judgemental environment. At the university, I have encountered many horror stories from young people who have had to deal with multiple issues but realistically, the University does not have the resources to offer them continued support. Whilst writing my thesis on Section 28 and its affect on society, I began to be extremely concerned about the mental and social wellbeing of young male adults and the impact that their issues and subsequent behaviour and decided that I would commit to making a positive change.

Why did you choose to become a board member of Survivors Manchester?

At the same time as i was told about Survivors Manchester, i was having discussions about the number of young men falling out of education and being trapped in the Criminal Justice System. A friend told me that he had been approached by Survivors Manchester Founder, Duncan Craig, and he had been impressed by the idea and the reality of the silence of men. I met with Duncan and was equally amazed that nobody had done anything before.

I decided there and then that i couldnt ignore this issue and began thinking about the hundreds and thousands of students I deal with on a yearly basis and the effect sexual violence can have on people...
more young men falling out of education? Well now i had a chance of stopping that.

What would you like to see Survivors Manchester do in Manchester?

I would like to see Survivors Manchester become as well known as organisations such as Rape Crisis (for women) helping men and boys to defeat the legacy of abuse, and regain control of their lives.

I'd like to see us be able to help educate doctors, police, lawyers, probation officers, teachers, parents, partners etc to the impact that sexual abuse and rape has on men, which will give victims and survivors a greater support network.

Do you have a message for Greater Manchester residents?

Dont be silent Manchester. Blow the myths out of the water. Help you're 'fellow' man. Lets pull together and really show the UK and beyond that Manchester is not only the best city ever, but it is the most forward thinking and supportive place to be!

Break the silence Manchester, it stops with us!

What's your favourite thing about Manchester?

The people, the music, the nightlife!