An increase in the number of people experiencing domestic abuse shows not everyone can stay safe during the pandemic.
As lockdown continues during the Coronavirus pandemic, the number of calls to Gardaí from people experiencing domestic abuse has increased.
At today's government briefing on Covid-19, it was announced that the Gardaí have noted an increase of approximately twenty per cent of calls for help from people affected by domestic violence.
Liz Canavan, Assistant Secretary General at the Department of the Taoiseach, says that this number may be higher, as many people may not be able to make that call themselves.
Two weeks ago a national television, radio and social media advertising campaign was launched to reassure domestic violence victims that help is available. Since then the number of calls to helplines have been growing.
The levels of distress vary from person to person, says Mary Johnston who is a counsellor with Accord.
Sarah Benson, CEO (Chief Executive Officer) of Women’s Aid, says they are very much aware that some people are in very difficult situations and cannot get help. The charity has asked for everyone to keep an eye out,
It’s really important, now more than ever, for the community to be vigilant.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 27 April 2020. The reporter is Ailbhe Conneely.
This report contains content which is not RTÉ copyright.
