SDLP Foyle MLA Sinead McLaughlin
She was speaking after Women’s Aid released their annual report which found that their services received almost 11,000 referrals during the 23/24 period, an increase of 600 from the 22/23 period.
Said the Foyle MLA: “These statistics are a harrowing reminder that we are still struggling to get to the grips with the epidemic of abuse carried out against women, children and young people.
“Local services are operating at full capacity to give victims the support they so desperately need.
“These services remain at breaking point and are really starting to feel the devastating impact a continuous lack of funding has had on them.
“While budget constraints are a legitimate issue, this does not mean we completely turn our backs on community and voluntary sector.
“These services are the backbone of our communities. They act as a safe place for victims to turn too in some of their darkest moments.
“Failure to properly support organisations such as Women’s Aid will not only be catastrophic for women and girls now but also future generations who may need their help.
“The fight to end violence against women and girls must be carried out with frontline services at maximum strength
“The Executive must take responsibility for this issue and deliver greater investment towards tackling violence against women and girls across all government departments. Whether that is through education, which combats misogynistic attitudes at their earliest point, or through the justice system which ensures those responsible for perpetrating this abuse are properly dealt with.
“As we approach the Christmas period, I would urge people to not suffer in silence.
“No-one should suffer abuse whether physical or mental, and especially not in their own home.
“Together we must continue to talk about these issues to highlight that abuse of any kind is unacceptable and to make clear that help is at hand.”
