Meath Women’s Refuge & Support Services has launched its annual Christmas Appeal, asking the community in Meath to support women and children affected by domestic violence across the county.  

Frances Haworth, CEO, Meath Women’s Refuge & Support Services says:

“Each Christmas we ask the community in Meath to show solidarity with women and children experiencing domestic violence in our county. Domestic abuse in Ireland has been described as endemic and we know there are many women and their children trapped in homes where violence, control and abuse are the norm. Last year 185 women and children stayed with us in refuge and we answered 1,122 calls to our 24 hour helpline. We are so grateful for the generosity of families, communities and businesses across Meath who give each year. While our staff salaries are funded by the State, donations and grants help us provide counselling, play therapy, activities for families and maintain our refuge building.  

Christmas can be a challenging time of year for families where there is violence or abuse at home and feelings of isolation can be heightened during the holidays with schools and work places closed. Please remember you are not alone and to reach out, we can help. Our Freefone helpline and refuge is open 24 hours a day all year round and over the Christmas period so that any woman that needs help can call us on 1800 464646.”

This year there are a number of ways to support the refuge:

- Donate securely online at www.dvservicesmeath.ie

- Post a cheque to Meath Women’s Refuge & Support Services, 39 Flowerhill, Navan, Co. Meath.  Any club, business or family that would like to organise a fundraising event can contact us on 046-9022393.

- Donate in any branch of Credit Union Plus

Meath Women’s Refuge & Support Services are grateful to receive vouchers for any amount for supermarkets, clothes, pharmacy or toy stores in Meath. The organisation cannot accept second-hand items for health and safety reasons but are pleased to receive new children’s toys.

Meath Women’s Refuge & Support Services recently launched Zero Tolerance Meath, a dedicated prevention project aiming to engage the community in Meath in a deeper understanding and action to address domestic, sexual and gender-based violence. If you want to find out more or get involved please contact claudia@dvservicesmeath.ie

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Impact in 2023

- 185 women and children provided with emergency refuge accommodation

- 492 women supported in the community and in court in Meath

- 540 sessions of counselling for 98 women

- 66 sessions of play and music therapy for children

- 48 women took part in our group programmes and monthly drop in sessions

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What can I do if I need help?

If you need help or advice about domestic abuse you can phone Meath Women’s Refuge & Support Services helpline for immediate support on 1800 464646 or visit www.dvservicesmeath.ie. If you are in immediate danger call 999.

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