To celebrate International Women’s Day 2015, Omagh Women’s Aid hosted a Coffee Morning recently. The event also launched their Children’s and Young Person’s Projects which are part funded by Children in Need.
Attendees, including local councillors, volunteers, staff from other agencies and women interested in the work of Women’s Aid, enjoyed an informal morning of refreshments, information from staff and a free raffle.
Local poet and long standing friend of Omagh Women’s Aid, Pheme Glass, read some of her poetry to the delight of all present. Bradley’s Pharmacy also kindly provided participants with free mini health checks and lifestyle advice.
Staff explained how Domestic Abuse can be emotional, physical, psychological, financial or sexual. Physical injuries such as bruising can be one sign, but if you are concerned about someone, you should also be aware of other indicators such as controlling behaviour; when a partner won’t let you leave the house or spend time with friends and family; or a partner who is obsessively jealous or accuses you of being unfaithful.
Women who experience abuse often describe being fearful that they will do or say something “wrong” and that they are constantly walking on egg shells. If you live in the Omagh area and are experiencing domestic or sexual violence, you can contact Omagh Women’s Aid (028 8224 1414) to speak confidentially to a support worker.
They can provide refuge accommodation, floating support for women who choose to remain at home, children’s services and much more. You can also contact the 24 Hour Domestic & Sexual Violence Helpline (0808 802 1414) and they can refer you to support services near you.