Women’s Aid Federation NI have today published their annual regional statistics, which shows the reality for thousands of women across Northern Ireland who have experienced violence, often in their own homes.
Women’s Aid reports that in the financial year 2023/24 alone, 527 women and 291 children stayed in one of their emergency accommodation refuges throughout Northern Ireland.
These harrowing statistics come on the first day the Global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence, and gives a snapshot of the reality faced by many women and girls every day in Northern Ireland.
The Women’s Aid Movement in Northern Ireland, which provides specialist support to women, children and young people who have experienced domestic abuse and other forms of violence against women, also reported that they are supporting a further 7,637 women living in the community.
The distressing reality of pregnant women experiencing domestic abuse was also laid bare when it was confirmed that 10 babies were born to women living in Women’s Aid emergency accommodation at the time of their birth, with a further 266 pregnant women being supported in the community.
Demand for Women’s Aid Services in 23/24 also saw 10,955 referrals to their services in Northern Ireland as they try address the increasing demand for vital support for women and their children across the province.
Sarah Mason, the CEO of Women’s Aid Federation Northern Ireland, said,
“Sadly, these statistics are not surprising to us. Each year, Women’s Aid in Northern Ireland faces an ever-increasing demand for services as we work tirelessly to support women, children, and young people who have experienced abuse.
Local services are working at full capacity to meet the needs of victims and survivors who need vital support. Funding to increase capacity to deliver services continues to be a major issue that must be addressed if we truly want to effectively end violence against women in our society and create a community were women feel safe, and are safe, in their own homes.”
The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an annual international campaign that kicks off on 25th November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and runs until 10 December, Human Rights Day.
The campaign was started by activists at the inauguration of the Women’s Global Leadership Institute in 1991. It is used as an organising strategy by individuals and organisations around the world to call for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls.
Women’s Aid urges any women who feel unsafe to reach out for support. Women’s Aid groups exist in every part of Northern Ireland and are there to listen. You can find your local Women’s Aid group by visiting their website: womensaidni.org
If you are in danger, contact the PSNI immediately by dialing ‘999’ immediately.
You can also contact the Police on their non – emergency number by calling ‘101’.