The Community Foundation for Ireland have supported several organisations helping those who experience domestic violence during the Covid-19 pandemic. Safe Ireland, Women’s Aid and Men’s Aid all received funding from our Covid-19 Response Fund. While home for many is a safe place, this is not the case for those experiencing domestic abuse. “The very place we have all been sent for safety because of Covid-19 - home - is anything but safe for some people” said Minister for Justice Charlie Flanagan while launching a campaign to inform victims of domestic abuse of supports available to them.
While the recent awareness campaign launched by the government has been welcomed, charities in the sector remain worryingly underfunded despite an additional €160,000 promised by the Department of Justice. Safe Ireland say that €1.6 million is needed in emergency funding to “help ensure that services can respond adequately to the needs of women and children at this unique time.” As a result of the pandemic most charities have lost out on considerable money through fundraising. Funding is crucial during these uncertain times.
There has already been an increase of people seeking support from domestic abuse organisations. Nine women’s refuges will close because they’re not able to meet the social distancing guidelines. Women will need to be re-housed as more women will be seeking refuge and support. Research shows that 79% of women do not report violence and these women are now in 'lockdown' with their perpetrators. Safe Ireland have been awarded €100,000 to aid their emergency response to circumstances like these. It will support women and children directly as well as supporting domestic violence services around to country to continue their work to mobilise community resources to keep women and children safe during this crisis.
€20,000 has been donated to support Women’s Aid Crisis Fund and legal fund. This money will directly benefit over 100 women as well as their children through their helpline and one to one and court accompaniment services. Men’s Aid have received €9,600 from the Covid Response Fund which will go towards counselling sessions for men experiencing domestic abuse during Covid-19. This will also help to break the stigma of men suffering domestic abuse and seeking support for it.
The Covid-19 Response Fund was created to support some of the most vulnerable groups in society at this difficult time through organisations that are best placed to respond to their needs. A strong community-based response is required to counter both Covid-19 and domestic abuse. If you would like to find out more information on how you can support causes close to your heart and improve the lives of vulnerable communities visit our Giving section here.