Reports of domestic abuse are up 30% in some parts of the country. Here are ways we can all help those who are not safe at home
The news that domestic abuse is on the rise since the lockdown began in Ireland is devastating. Domestic violence reports to the Gardaí are up 20%-30% in some areas, and Women’s Aid is reporting an increase in calls for its services.
It has been the case worldwide that lockdown can exacerbate fraught home situations. Victims may be in such close proximity to their abusers that they may not have the opportunity to reach out for help.
Increased financial hardship and a rise in drinking in the home are also exacerbating situations for victims who live with abusive partners.
Here are things we can all do now to try to help those who are not safe at home:
Text ACTION to 50300
You can help right now by texting ACTION to 50300 to donate €4 to Women’s Aid. They need funds for their services such as the 24hr phone line and supports for women seeking barring orders from their partners.
Support #CreativesagainstCovid, in aid of Women’s Aid and Childline
This beautiful campaign refocuses our attention on looking towards the future. These prints are a reminder of all the things we can look forward to when life gets back to normal and how we will appreciate life so much more. The posters cost €40 and all proceeds will go to the charities. Here are some of our favourites.
Arrange your own fundraiser
Take inspiration from these brilliant online campaigns and start your own mini-movement in aid of this deserving cause.
Bake off
Newtownshandrum Camogie Club has arranged a bake-off fundraiser in aid of Women’s Aid. While of course they cannot do a bake sale or a taste test in person, they are instead taking to Instagram and asking their followers to compare their efforts, asking their friends to vote for the best looking bakes. They are taking donations on GoFundMe.
Brave a shave or dye
Grace Higgins will shave her head to help raise funds for Women’s Aid. She will brave the shave on Saturday May 2nd when her goal of €1,000 is raised on GoFundMe. You can donate here.
Join Women’s Aid
While now may not seem like the time for a career change, perhaps your skill set is exactly what Women’s Aid needs. They are recruiting a Services Manager to manage, develop and support Women’s Aid Dublin-based services.
We are recruiting for a Services Manager (maternity cover) to manage, develop & support our Dublin based services inc. 1 to 1 Support, Outreach & Court Accompaniment Services, Dolphin House Drop In Service & the High Risk Support Project. More at https://t.co/DlNesLT6Vz #JobFairy pic.twitter.com/0MJ95scnyF
— Women’s Aid Ireland (@Womens_Aid) April 20, 2020
In emergency situations
Report suspected violence to the Gardaí
Don’t hesitate to call the authorities if you think someone may be being harmed or abused at home. According to advice on whatwouldyoudo.ie, if a situation is already violent or looks like it is escalating quickly, don’t directly intervene. You may endanger yourself, and the abuser may take their anger out on the victim at another point. Call the Gardaí on 999.
Know where to turn for help
If someone is in need of help and their home isn’t safe, support is still here. Here is a link to resources and support services available throughout Ireland, stillhere.ie.
4/7 #StillHere campaign
— MerrionStreet.ie #StayAtHome (@merrionstreet) April 27, 2020
To help victims find frontline services in their area a new interactive map is available – https://t.co/t1oU4PMO9D.
The map helps women and men find details of services close to them, we encourage anyone who is feeling isolated or trapped to reach out.
Reach out if you can
If you suspect that someone is being abused by a partner at home, Women’s Aid advises people to keep in contact with them in a safe way. Direct them towards resources that can provide responsible advice. Women’s Aid has a 24hr National Helpline at 1800 341 900, available seven days a week.
Our National Helpline 1800341900 is fully available 24 hours, 7 days thanks to our frontline staff & volunteers. Our Text Service for Deaf & Hard of Hearing women continues on 087 959 7980 & our online chat service is available as usual https://t.co/DWpmTrOpqe #covid19Ireland pic.twitter.com/wEG10Vm0hC
— Women’s Aid Ireland (@Womens_Aid) March 18, 2020
