'Vital step' announced for two Carlow services that provide support across the county

Domestic, sexual, and gender-based violence services in Carlow have been allocated almost €170,000 in funding.

This has been described as a "vital step in strengthening support for survivors" by Fianna Fáil TD, Peter 'Chap' Cleere. 

The funding comes at a time of growing demand for these services, with more than 1,600 reports of domestic violence made nationally during Christmas week last year.

The allocation forms part of a wider national funding package of €3.2 million for 67 services across the country.

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€97,547.55 has been allocated for Carlow South Leinster Rape Crisis Centre and €71,625.66 for Carlow Women’s Aid.

The funding will support the expansion of services like counselling services, improved access to domestic and sexual violence services, and increased capacity to respond to rising demand across national helplines.

"Domestic, sexual and gender-based violence has no place in our society. Yet too many people continue to suffer in silence, feeling isolated, alone and unsure of where to turn for help. As awareness grows and more people come forward seeking assistance, it is essential that we have the appropriate level of service delivery in place to meet that demand," Deputy Cleere said. 

He added that the government is working towards a zero-tolerance approach to domestic and gender-based violence.