Ten babies born in Women’s Aid shelters in Northern Ireland in the past year – The Irish News

Ten babies have been born in Women’s Aid shelters in Northern Ireland in the past year, according to new figures from the charity.

Further statistics reveal that more than 800 women and children have used the charity’s emergency accommodation in the past year, while a further 7,637 women living in the community have been supported by the charity.

The Women’s Aid Federation NI said the figures highlight the scale of the problem for thousands of women who have been victims of domestic violence and other forms of violence.

While 10 babies were born to women living in shelters at the time of their birth, another 266 pregnant women are receiving support in the community.

Demand for women’s support services in 2023/24 has also seen 10,955 referrals to their services in Northern Ireland as they attempt to meet the growing demand for vital support for women and their children in the north.

The statistics come on the first day of the ’16 Global Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence’ and provide insight into the reality many women and girls face every day.

Sarah Mason, of the Northern Ireland Women’s Aid Federation, said: “Sadly, these statistics do not surprise us.

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“Each year, Women’s Aid in Northern Ireland faces an ever-increasing demand for services as we work tirelessly to support women, children and young people experiencing abuse.

“Local services are working at full capacity to meet the needs of victims and survivors who require vital support.

“Funding to increase service delivery capacity continues to be a major issue that must be addressed if we are to truly end violence against women in our society and create a community where women feel empowered. safety and are safe in their own homes.

PSNI figures reveal there were 33,071 incidents of domestic violence last year, an increase of 144 on the previous year. Other figures show that since 2017, 42 women and girls have died violently.

In all but one case, the murderer or prime suspect is a man.

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is an annual international campaign that begins on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

It will continue until Human Rights Day on December 10.

The campaign, launched by activists at the inauguration of the Women’s Global Leadership Institute in 1991, is used by individuals and organizations around the world to call for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls .

For more information on women’s aid groups, please visit womensaidni.org