Women's Aid show for the first time the number of admissions to a hospital emergency unit relating to domestic violence.
The television drama series 'Family' written by Roddy Doyle shown recently on RTÉ television has had the issue of domestic abuse running through its storylines. Following the broadcast Women’s Aid the charity working with women experiencing domestic abuse reported a rise in requests for help.
Minister for Health, Brendan Howlin was presented with a report by Women’s Aid which documents for the first time the numbers of women presenting at St James’ Hospital Accident and Emergency Department and the types of injuries inflicted on them.
Monica O'Connor from Women's Aid says the results show the extent of the issue.
It certainly dispels the myth that it’s mild or that it’s not endemic in this society.
Hospital staff have experienced women arriving at the hospital with many different types of injuries, says Patrick Plunkett, Consultant in Accident and Emergency Unit at the hospital.
It can range from the minor to the very severe.
The report also lays the groundwork for the development of procedures and protocol for frontline healthcare staff when they encounter victims of domestic violence.
Brendan Howlin says he supports the initiative by Women's Aid, as well as the findings of their study,
I want to learn what I can to address this dreadful problem.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 7 July 1994. The reporter is Alasdair Jackson.
This programme contains content which is not RTÉ copyright.
