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.

Today Meath Women’s Refuge & Support Services launched its 2024 Annual Report, showing an increase in contact from women affected by domestic violence. There was a 22% increase in helpline calls from1,122 to 1,376 between 2023 and 2024. A total of 194 women and children leaving situations of domestic violence stayed in refuge and a further 534 women were supported in the community through outreach and court accompaniment. Our specialist child and youth team supported a further 99 children in the community.

A new report, launched today has found that children who have been impacted by domestic violence and abuse feel supported, safe and listened to when engaging with the Child and Youth Programme Community at the Meath Women’s Refuge and Support Services (MWRSS). The ‘Truly Be Me’ report, conducted by the School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin and commissioned by the MWRSS, examines the practice and impact of the programme since it began in 2018.