Posted on December 05, 2020
The Covid-19 crisis has been devastating for so many in different ways. Livelihoods have been lost, isolation and loneliness has taken its toll and some have paid the ultimate cost with their lives as a result of contracting the virus. We have been called on to stay home to stay safe and protect ourselves and those we love. However, for too many women and children, home is anything but safe. For those living with domestic violence, Covid-19 has created the perfect storm for abusive partners to exercise control and inflict violence on women and children. Access to support services for those suffering domestic violence has also been reduced as well as shelter capacity so that those affected are left feeling more trapped and with fewer options than ever.
Permanent link | Categories: 16 Facts for 16 Days • Day 11 • 5th December • 2020
Posted on December 05, 2017
Digital abuse in intimate relationships is real and it is harmful. We have long been concerned about disclosures of digital abuse made to our National Freephone Helpline and other services. In 2015, we took a snapshot of the issue in our National Freephone Helpline and One to One services and we recorded 293 disclosures of digital abuse. While the Women’s Aid snapshot is a small number of cases, we know that the phenomenon is real and growing year on year, especially for younger women.
A recent EU wide study on violence against women showed that 12% of Irish women and girls over the age of 15 had experienced stalking with 50% being stalked, physically and online, by a partner or ex (FRA, 2014).
Permanent link | Categories: 16 Facts for 16 Days • 5th December 2017 • Day 11
Posted on December 05, 2016
Domestic violence is a serious crime and should be treated as such. Domestic violence includes physical assault, cruelty, verbal abuse, rape, and sexual assault. It can lead to physical injury, hospitalisation and mental health issues. In some extreme cases it can result in homicide. Perpetrators of domestic violence against women can also abuse the children of the relationship.
No behaviour which so degrades and violates a human being can be dismissed as ‘just a domestic’. Everyone can be a part of supporting women and children affected by abuse.
We can challenge the behaviour and victim blaming culture that allows domestic violence to happen.
If you hear or witness abuse or are concerned about a loved one, organisations like Women’s Aid can help you too. Visit our Help section here.
Permanent link | Categories: Changetheconversation • 16 days • 5th December 2016 • 2016
Posted on December 05, 2016
It's day 11 of 16 Days and we further explore domestic violence and children.
The majority of children living in a home where domestic violence is present are affected by the abuse.
Children are victims of domestic violence both when directly targeted by the perpetrator of abuse and when witnessing the violence directed at their mother. Research has shown that there is a connection between domestic violence and child abuse and that witnessing the abuse is in itself a form of emotional abuse. (Listening to Children: Children's Stories of Domestic Violence, Hogan, F. and O'Reilly M, Office of the Minister For Children, 2007)
Permanent link | Categories: 16 facts for 16 days • day 11 • 5th December 2016
Posted on December 05, 2014
Amanda Jenkins was 27 when she was murdered in October 2007. She was found dead at her home in the St James’ Street area of Dublin on Sunday 7th October. She had been strangled. Amanda was originally from Co. Meath but had been living in the area with a local man for over a year. She worked locally in the fruit and vegetable shop and was said to be a popular member of staff.
Permanent link | Categories: Remembering Stolen Lives • 5th December 2014
Posted on December 05, 2014
One in Five women in Ireland experiences domestic abuse. It can happen to any woman, in any home and at any stage of her life.
As part of our annual ‘One in Five Women’ National Balloon Action during the International 16 Days of Action Women’s Aid has produced a video to give a snapshot of what this looks like, in one incident of emotional abuse for one woman. The video tells the story of Lisa who is suffering abuse from her partner, yet it has a positive message. And you can be part of it.
This video is a way you can support and show solidarity online with women experiencing domestic abuse.
Permanent link | Categories: One in Five Women campaign • Day Eleven • 5th December 2014
Posted on December 05, 2014
Women who have experienced domestic violence are at an increased risk of depression and suicide attempts; physical injuries; psychosomatic disorders; unwanted pregnancies; HIV and other STD's; being killed by a partner. (World Health Organisation, World Report on Violence and Health, 2002)
The effects of violence on a woman's health are severe. In addition to the immediate injuries from physical assault, women may suffer from chronic pain, gastrointestinal disorders, psychosomatic symptoms, and eating problems.
Emotional abuse can also have devastating health impacts. Domestic violence is associated with mental health problems such as anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and depression. Some studies indicate that women experiencing abuse are at heightened risk for suicide.
Permanent link | Categories: 16 Facts for 16 Days • 5th December 2014 • Day Eleven