28/09/2011

Violence Victims 'Turned Away From Refuges'

Thousands of domestic abuse victims were turned away from emergency housing last year when demand for the services increased by over a third.

The national organisation for domestic violence services, (Safe Ireland) said that demand increased by 38% and in result more than 3,000 people were turned away.

In its annual report Safe Ireland, the national organisation for 39 frontline domestic violence services says it has reached 'tipping point'.

More than 7,000 women sought help from domestic violence support groups last year while helplines received more than 38,000 calls.

Director of Safe Ireland Sharon O'Halloran said there are currently 20 domestic violence refuges in the country - and services are completely over-stretched.

"The real pressure point was the number of times women could not be accommodated immediately.

"These women and their children are the tragic fallout of Ireland's abject and consistent failure to meet European minimum requirements for refuge," she added.

Ms O’Halloran is pleading with the Government not to implement any more cutbacks: "This sector cannot face any further cuts - we're talking about closures," she said.

"Refuge accommodation is not just about getting a roof over your head," Ms O'Halloran continued.

"Our refuge and support services are staffed by professionals who have over 30 years experience in providing for the physical, mental and emotional needs of women and children leaving abuse."

(LB/BMcC)

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