A litany of violence

A NEW report released by Women’s Aid in Dublin has revealed a harrowing litany of violence against women and children.

According to the 2012 Women’s Aid Annual Report, there has been a 55 per cent increase in child abuse and 16,200 disclosures of domestic violence against women.

As a result Women’s Aid has called for 24/7 access to legal protection for vulnerable women and children and for the Government to sign up to the Istanbul Convention.

Margaret Martin, Women’s Aid Director, said the figures show that threats, abuse, intimidation and violence are a daily reality for thousands of women and children across Ireland.

“Domestic violence is a serious crime against women and children in Irish society but one that is hidden and minimised,

? she said.

“I am very concerned about the increasing number of disclosures to Women’s Aid of children being directly abused and exposed to domestic violence.

“In 2012, women told us on 3,230 occasions that their children were being hit, including with household items, smacked, constantly shouted at, and in some cases, sexually abused.

“Children have witnessed their pets being abused, kicked and thrown against walls. At times, the perpetrator of the abuse has deliberately targeted the children as a way to hurt both them and their mother.

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Ms Martin explained that exposure to domestic violence is recognised in the Children First Guidelines as a form of emotional abuse with detrimental effects to their wellbeing.

She added:

“Many children have witnessed their mother being shouted at, threatened, physically assaulted and at times have seen their mother being raped.

“Where they have not directly seen the abuse occurring they may have overheard abusive incidents, or seen the aftermath of it such as bruises, broken bones, damaged furniture and belongings.

“It is heartbreaking to listen to women who are living in a constant state of fear for their children and themselves.

“These mothers should be seen as the natural ally in child protection situations. They are vital to their children’s wellbeing and the key to a different life, free from abuse and fear.

“They are best placed to know what is in the best interests of their children and themselves. Their voices should be heard and respected.

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The Women’s Aid National Freephone Helpline (1800 341900, is open from 10am – 10pm, seven days a week.