A telephone helpline for men was launched in Dublin yesterday. "Firstcontact, the men's helpline" hopes to reduce domestic violence by providing this confidential service.
The number is staffed by 20 professionally-trained male volunteers from Wednesday to Friday. They will listen to callers' problems and encourage them to take the first steps in ending the use of violence in relationships.
"We define domestic violence as mental cruelty, undermining verbally, limiting contact with family or friends and preventing access to family income, as well as the sexual and physical abuse of partners and children," says Mr Joe Kelly, project co-ordinator.
Violence in Irish society is at a very high level, according to the chairman of Firstcontact, business consultant Mr Raymond Cadwell. Of couples who seek help, the wife has been beaten in more than 30 per cent of cases.
Firstcontact is a pilot project funded by a £25,000 grant from the Department of Justice. Helpline brochures will be available in Garda stations, social welfare offices and healthcare centres.
The first phone calls will be taken on Wednesday, May 26th. The Firstcontact number is 1850 32 32 33 and phone lines are open Wednesday to Friday, 7-10 p.m.