VITAL SERVICES to help women who have been subjected to domestic violence are under severe pressure, the director of Women’s Aid has said.
In advance of the launch of the charity’s fundraising appeal today, Margaret Martin said a combination of funding cuts and a drop in fundraising had put the services Women’s Aid provided under severe pressure.
One in five women experiences domestic violence in Ireland. Almost every month a woman will be murdered in Ireland, most likely in her home.
Women’s Aid runs a national free helpline and a Dublin-based support service and court-accompaniment service. It also refers women to local refuges and support services around the country.
Today’s appeal is to provide funds to keep the helpline running. It operates 12 hours a day, seven days a week.
Ms Martin said the helpline volunteers and staff heard “far too many stories of seemingly perfect relationships that turn bad”.
She said that last year many women told the charity they had received death threats from their partners. “When women call us we listen to them. Women’s Aid is dedicated to answering as many calls. . . as we can. That’s why we need support so badly.”
Donations can be made on the charity’s website.
The Women’s Aid helpline, 1800-341900, is open from 10am to 10pm seven days a week.
