Calls for help rise as Meath Women’s Refuge sees 22pc increase
Meath Women’s Refuge has seen a sharp rise in demand for its services, with helpline calls increasing by 22pc in 2024.
The organisation received 1,376 calls for help last year, up from 1,122 in 2023, according to new figures released in its 2024 Annual Report.
The report highlights the scale of domestic violence in the county, with 194 women and children seeking refuge accommodation and a further 534 women receiving support in the community through outreach and court accompaniment.
In addition, 99 children were supported by the organisation’s specialist children’s team.
Frances Haworth, CEO of Meath Women’s Refuge & Support Services, said: “Domestic violence is a widespread and entrenched problem with 1 in 4 women affected during their lifetime.”
“Our homes should be our safe space, yet we know the levels of domestic violence in Ireland are high with An Garda Síochána receiving a record number of calls - 65,224 - related to domestic violence in 2024.”
She said that the rise in demand in Meath is linked to greater awareness and community engagement.
“As our community in Meath is becoming more aware of sexual, domestic and gender-based violence, we are seeing an increase in women looking for help which is to be welcomed.”
“Our Zero Tolerance Meath leaders are making huge progress in listening to and empowering the community to respond and help prevent domestic violence. This is a whole of society problem that needs a whole of society response.”
According to the organisation, increased core funding last year allowed it to expand children’s services and outreach programmes, though demand continues to exceed capacity.
Donations and fundraising efforts also played a key role, supporting 767 counselling sessions — a 42pc increase on the previous year — and more than 100 sessions of play therapy and adolescent counselling.
The CEO added: “The reality is that donations are still critical every year to run our refuge building in Navan. The generosity we receive from families, businesses and communities, across Meath each year keeps us going and we thank each and every one of our supporters for their solidarity.”