Clare Haven says it’s witnessed a “startling” increase in the number of children admitted to its refuge in the past year.
It comes as new figures show the number of reports of domestic violence to Gardaí in Clare jumped by more than a quarter since 2019.
Gardaí have described the gradual increase in cases in recent years as ‘very concerning’.
Recorded domestic violence incidents in Clare have jumped by more than a quarter in the last two years.
New figures show Gardai in this county received 837 reports in 2021, compared to 665 in 2019.
The Domestic Liaison Inspector for the Clare Garda Division says reported incidents have been gradually rising in Clare over the past 5 years, something he insists is ‘very concerning’.
Inspector Dave Finnerty says domestic violence remains high on their agenda and through Operation Faoiseach, a victim centred operation, every effort is being made to target offenders and hold them to account for their actions.
Clare Haven says it’s recorded an almost 47% increase in calls to its helpline over the past two years.
The number of women admitted to it’s refuge after being forced to flee their home, jumped by 11% and 7% respectively in 2020 and 2021, while there was a “startling” increase of 30% in the number of children admitted last year, compared to the previous 12 months.
The advocacy group’s Manager of Services says they’re chasing their tail to keep up with demand.
Dr Siobhán O’Connor believes there have been positive developments though in terms of interagency work and the focus placed on the issue of male perpetrate violence, but she says talk now needs to turn to action.
An Aontú Midwest member believes the figures, which were obtained by the party, highlight the urgent need for more resources for local advocacy groups like Clare Haven to ensure those impacted by violence in the home can receive assistance.
Sarah Beasley believes more Garda resources may also be needed to address the issue.
