New campaign on supports for survivors of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence welcomed by Kildare Senator

A brand-new awareness campaign centering on supports for survivors of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence has been welcomed by a Senator based in County Kildare. 

Fianna Fáil Senator Fiona O'Loughlin, said that she welcomes the launch of a new campaign to raise awareness on pathways to safety and supports available for survibors of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence. 

The 'Always Here' campaign seeks to highlight and signpost survivors and wider society to the available support services and encourage them to reach out for help and to report what has happened or is happening to them.

The campaign is launching just before Christmas, a time when reports of domestic abuse in particular can escalate. 

Senator Fiona O'Loughlin welcomed the news. File photograph.

Commenting on the latest announcement, Senator O'Loughlin, who is also the Chairperson of the Oireachtas Women’s Caucus, said: "Sadly, as Women’s Aid have said, it is the case that Christmas is a time of hurt, fear, intimidation and intentional cruelty for women affected by domestic abuse.

"That is why the Always Here campaign is so important, to assure victims of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence that they are not alone during what is an extremely difficult time of the year."

The Newbridge-based politician continued: "We have to let victims know they are not alone; there are many supports and pathways to safety.

"We need to make sure that victims as well as wider society are aware of these supports. 

"I would encourage any victim of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence to ask for help because their voice will be heard," Senator O'Loughlin concluded.

FURTHER INFORMATION

The campaign follows on from the 'Still Here' campaign. which was focused on telling survivors of domestic violence that help and support remained available during the Covid pandemic. 

The 'Always Here' assets produced for the campaign seeks to empower survivors by reassuring them that they will be believed, that the issue will be taken seriously, that there are organisations ready to support them, and that the wider Irish society stands with them and condemns the behaviour of perpetrators. 

A new website, alwayshere.ie, has also been launched which provides advice and information on available supports to survivors of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence.

It explains the various manifestations of domestic violence and coercive control, including targeted advice and information for young people who are concerned about domestic abuse. 

If you have been affected by this article, you can find resources to help you by contacting Women's Aid at 1800 341 900 or emailing helpline@womensaid.ie, or Men's Aid by ringing 01 554 3811 or emailing hello@mensaid.ie.

Additionally, you can find resources to help you by emailing Samaritans Ireland at jo@samaritans.ie, or by ringing 116 123.