Women's Aid Offers Lifeline To Rural Victims Of Domestic Violence

Women's Aid provide support and refuge services for women and their children suffering from mental, physical or sexual abuse within the home.

Speaking after the meeting, Minister Gildernew said: "Domestic violence in all its forms is a crime and I think we all have to work harder to tackle it from Government down to grassroots level. No woman or child should be subjected to violence and abuse in their home. As a rural woman myself, I am always very concerned about the plight of rural victims of domestic violence. Many rural women in this situation can particularly feel isolated and distressed in the belief that they have no-one to turn to. Women's Aid provides a critical lifeline to these women and I am very appreciative of their outreach efforts in rural areas.

"I am also very impressed by the work of Women's Aid, many of whom are volunteers giving up their own time. A safe place is often the central concern of a domestic violence victim both for her children and herself. Women's Aid are often instrumental in securing this vital peace of mind for those women involved. They provide an invaluable support service and very importantly, work to educate and challenge the attitudes and beliefs that help perpetuate domestic violence in our society."

Speaking after the meeting, Annie Campbell, Director of Women's Aid Federation NI thanked the Minister for taking time to meet with Women's Aid and said: "Women's Aid knows from experience that rural women's lives can be blighted by domestic violence, which is often compounded by a lack of transport infrastructure and isolation.

"We're delighted to have had this opportunity to meet with the Minister today. We welcome the very positive reception we have received and the willingness of the Minister and her Department to engage and to work with us to eradicate all forms of violence against women."