News and views

In Honour of Kasey: Raising Awareness of Male Domestic Abuse

At just 24 years old, Kasey Anderson was murdered by his girlfriend. His death has left those who loved him heartbroken and dealing with a loss they could never have prepared for.

His family, who fought tirelessly to bring him back from a dangerous relationship, now fight in his memory. They want to ensure that no other family endures the same pain in silence. Through their grief, Kasey’s family found the strength to share their experience. It’s a story that has since ignited vital conversations about male domestic abuse.

Last year, the Big Life team in Liverpool had the immense privilege of spending time with them, listening to their story and learning about Kasey. We walked through his local park and saw where he would go fishing, sat in the memorial garden his father had built opposite his house, and visited Goodison Park, the home of his beloved football team. We cried, laughed, and listened. Working with Liverpool County Council and The Paul Lavelle Foundation, we created a video documenting the story of Kasey. It showed who he was, his devastating death and how his murder has impacted those who loved him.

This footage was used as part of the Liverpool Domestic Abuse Strategy launch. Designed to raise crucial awareness, the strategy also aims to challenge perceptions around domestic abuse. That anyone experiencing abuse receives the recognition and support they deserve.

Since the video’s first release, The Paul Lavelle Foundation – a charity set up to support male domestic abuse victims and survivors – has launched a satellite service in Liverpool. The Domestic Abuse Partnership Board has also taken critical steps to integrate male domestic abuse into its wider strategy, acknowledging that abuse does not discriminate by gender.

However, the impact of Kasey and his family’s story extends beyond policy changes. It is encouraging transformation among frontline workers to consider how they approach male domestic abuse – asking the right questions and making the right referrals – ensuring that men suffering in silence feel heard and supported.

At Big Life, we believe in the power of giving people with lived experiences the opportunity to have their voices heard. For Kasey’s family, sharing their experience was not only an important part of their journey but gave them the chance to shine a light on men facing domestic abuse.

We’re deeply grateful to Kasey’s family for trusting us to help tell their story. Through their bravery, they opened our eyes to the far-reaching impact of domestic abuse. It’s a reminder to all of us to stay alert, notice the signs, and be ready to have those difficult conversations. If you or someone you know needs help, don’t wait – reach out.

Paul Lavelle Foundation can be contacted on 01512944176. You can visit the charity’s website here. To receive support nationally, contact the Respect Men’s advice line on 0808 801 0327 for specialist support.

In Liverpool, the organisations listed here will offer you support and keep your personal information safe. 

Kasey’s story is also told as part of the Netflix Series, ‘My Lover, My Killer’ – Season 3, Episode 9.