New figures from Women's Aid have noted a 41 per cent increase in calls to their 24-hour National Freephone Helpline since the onset of Covid-19 earlier this year.
This increase represents a jump from 12,506 calls in a nine-month period in 2019 to 17,729 in the same period this year.
Today's figures highlight the impact Covid-19 measures have had on victims of domestic violence, while there is also increased concern as we approach Christmas, a time the charity says is a "time of hurt, fear, intimidation and intentional cruelty" for some people.
Ahead of Christmas, Women's Aid has launched their 'Don't Suffer in Silence' campaign, sharing information on their social media channels and reminding the public their helpline is open 24-hours a day, including Christmas and New Year's Day.
The charity's staff and volunteers are preparing for a busy Christmas period when calls usually spike due to people trying to 'keep the peace' according to Women's Aid, adding many victims will not reach out for help, so the increase in calls only represents "the tip of the iceberg".
The impact of Covid-19 restrictions on people suffering from domestic abuse has been an area of concentration for Gardaí since the start of the pandemic, with Operation Faoiseamh ongoing to assist those in need.
Gardaí have reiterated that travel restrictions do not apply to people fleeing situations of domestic abuse.
Despite this, Women's Aid CEO Sarah Benson said the charity is concerned with the prospect of another national lockdown.
Just because it is the festive season, it doesn’t mean that physical, emotional, sexual and financial abuse goes away.
"I am very concerned about the possibility of another lockdown in January it may deter victims from getting in touch after the Christmas period, when there is traditionally an increase in calls.
"In recent months we have received calls from women phoning in garden sheds, their cars or bathroom with the shower turned on to mask the conversation.
"Usually after Christmas, people go back to work and the kids go back to school and it creates that breathing space for taking the opportunity to reach out for support. That may not be an option this time around."
Ms Benson added: "December and Christmas is a tough time for women and often the abuse they are suffering is more frequent and more severe with women disclosing that they have been assaulted, hospitalised, being ignored and being called the most horrible names.
"Just because it is the festive season, it doesn’t mean that physical, emotional, sexual and financial abuse goes away."
If you wish to seek help from Women's Aid, their 24-hour national helpline can be reached on 1800-341900, or avail of their online chat service at womensaid.ie. If you are in immediate danger, contact emergency services by ringing 112 or 999.
