Women's Aid Dundalk

15/06/2026

Have you found yourself saying, "How in the world did my abuser know that? I only mentioned it to one other person, and she swore she didn't tell anyone"?

There may be spyware installed on your phone, allowing your perpetrator to learn your whereabouts, plans and other details. This is especially a possibility if you've left your phone unattended, even just for a few minutes.

If some of these signs sound familiar, consider taking your phone to a repair shop and telling the employees there about your concerns. Or, if you can afford it, get an unexpensive phone and pay-as-you-go sim card, keep them secret and use them when you want to communicate about things that must stay concealed from a perpetrator.

Want other suggestions for keeping yourself and your children safe? Our staff members are here 24 hours a day. Contact the helpline at 0429333244.

15/06/2026

This is a very important reminder! We regularly hear from women who have been in abusive relationships for decades. Domestic abuse can affect people at any age, and situations can become especially complex if the person being abused either provides care to the perpetrator or receives assistance with daily tasks from them.

Today is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

Every year, Women’s Aid support hundreds of older women who have experienced abuse for many years, even decades.

In 2024/2025 alone, we supported hundreds of women over the age of 65 right across NI.

Domestic abuse doesn’t have an age limit and it’s never okay.

For info on support in your area visit: womensaidni.org

15/06/2026

Many perpetrators use requests for s*x to maintain power and control. If you only agree after a long pause, a weary sigh and a muttered "I'm not in the mood, but if you insist...", that's not consent.

Because women know their partners best and understand what's likely to set them off, many do anything they can to keep the peace. That might mean having s*x even though they don't really want to. Try not to be hard on yourself if you've been in that situation, too.

If you're in a relationship with someone who's forcing you to have s*x or being controlling and abusive in other ways, our staff members are here to listen and support. Contact our 24-hour helpline at 0429333244.

14/06/2026

A new European Union-funded exhibition features many examples of women who've gotten noticed due to how they work within and attempt to change societal expectations.

One of the featured individuals is Mari Varamashvili, a lawyer from Tbilisi, Georgia who has dedicated her career to helping women and girls affected by new and evolving forms of violence.

Check the project's images and stories here: https://buff.ly/8G2rVOt

Because Women's Aid Dundalk is an empowerment-focused organisation, we understand the importance of helping women overcome barriers and stabilise their circumstances. Whether you're currently in an abusive relationship, have recently left one or are concerned about your partner's behaviour, our trained staff members are here to listen and suggest options. Contact our 24-hour helpline at 0429333244.

14/06/2026

People commonly say "I'm sorry you feel that way, but..." to defend against something they did that made you upset. That phrasing suggests the issue is not them, but the way you're feeling about it. Be cautious if you frequently notice your partner using this language, as it could be an attempt to minimise their bad behaviour and push the blame onto you.

Have you felt that there's something not quite right in your relationship and the way your partner treats you? If you'd like to talk to someone about it, connect with our trained staff members 24 hours a day at 0429333244.

13/06/2026

Experiencing domestic violence changes you in ways you may not want or expect. The healing process empowers you to regain control over your life and choices.

Our trained staff members understand how domestic abuse affects the lives of women and children. We'll give you information relevant to your circumstances and plans. We can also provide contact details for other service providers who may assist you on your healing journey, such as legal aid workers or specialists to help with substance misuse. Contact our 24-hour helpline at 0429333244. We're here to listen when you're ready to connect.

13/06/2026

A new Scotland-wide project will support people affected by domestic abuse who are within the country's armed forces community.

It will be the first effort of its kind in Scotland and combine trauma-informed care with specialised training. Learn more about the initiative here: https://buff.ly/Wyhtzrb

Our support workers also know that various barriers can make it more difficult to access support. If you or someone you know is affected by domestic abuse, help is always available. Contact our 24-hour helpline at 0429333244.

12/06/2026

Representatives from a Dublin domestic violence service provider have written to Ireland's media and broadcast regulator to request a meeting about requiring social media platforms in Ireland to restrict misogynistic influencer content that promotes violence, coercive control or hatred of women. Read about the impacts its frontline staff members have seen from this material here: https://buff.ly/DK7eibT

12/06/2026

Representatives from the Dublin R**e Crisis Centre had training with Women's Aid Dundalk on Wednesday, which was very informative and essential for our staff members. Special thanks to Sinéad and Ciara for facilitating it!

12/06/2026

This recent coverage from Australia highlights how domestic violence can become a health and safety issue for workplaces that allow working from home.

When researchers studied employers' handling of this matter, the study found that they encountered significant challenges in identifying domestic violence risks and sometimes only spotted stereotypical warning signs. Learn more here: https://buff.ly/3S5EdSL

Homes should be safe, no matter if they double as your workplace. Our support workers know that's not always the case, though. If domestic violence has made you feel unsafe, contact our 24-hour helpline at 0429333244. We offer information based on your circumstances.