A NEWPORT teenager is challenging the stereotype that victims of domestic abuse are always female with a thought-provoking film

Alex Lavric, 18, said men can be victims too, but that they are less likely to speak out about it. He believes that young men are particularly at risk and is keen to share the new film, made with the charity Fixers, in local schools.

"Men are ashamed about being victims of domestic abuse," said Mr Lavric. "It’s a problem that’s taboo and pushed under the carpet.

"Young people getting into relationships for the first time are especially vulnerable.

"If you have no experience of relationships you have nothing to compare it against. How do you know if your relationship is healthy or not?

"That’s why I’m hoping to reach young people so that, going forward, they will be able to spot signs of abuse and get help."

Although Mr Lavric has no personal experience of domestic abuse, he says he has seen its impact on young men in his community.

Mr Lavric led a team of young people who contributed to the film which was made with the help of Fixers, the charity which works with young people.

In the film, a fairy-tale princess describes her prince charming, but all is not what it seems.

Mr Lavric explains: "The princess talks about her relationship with her prince. Initially you assume she is a victim but it’s quickly revealed that it’s the prince who is the victim. "The princess is controlling her prince through emotional manipulation, threatening behaviour and physical abuse.

"Sometimes there can be a dark or hidden side to relationships and that’s what I wanted to show. I wanted to question the myth that men can’t be victims. "Relationships aren’t straightforward or a fairytale.

"People are scared of abusers and often stay quiet, so I hope my film will encourage victims not to feel ashamed or embarrassed and to speak out instead.

"It’s important that more information is available about domestic abuse against men because people tend to look past it or ignore it."

Fixers works with young people aged 16 to 25 across the UK by providing them with resources to help them campaign on issues they feel strongly about.

The charity has helped more than 18,000 youngsters across the UK to have a voice in their community on issues such as cyber-bullying, self-harm, suicide or transphobia.

To view the video visit fixer.org.uk