Bespoke court service for women to begin in Letterkenny

A BESPOKE programme for women aged 18 and over who are either in or at risk of entering the court system is to commence in Letterkenny.

The weekly programme will begin on Wednesday, June 26 in Donegal Women’s Centre from 10.30am to 12.30pm.

The programme is gender sensitive and acknowledges female-specific needs.

A range of complex clients will be addressed using a trauma-responsive approach, including counselling, and educational mindful activities that will identify and help change self-destructive and negative behaviour patterns.

Women will be encouraged to identify these problematic behaviours and supported to take control of their mental health and wellness.

According to programme details, clients will develop skills that will create a pathway to employment opportunities.

Manager of Donegal Women’s Centre, Mary Herlihy.

Manager of Donegal Women’s Centre, Mary Herlihy said: “We will address interrelated factors that often characterise women’s paths into the criminal justice system and inhibit their progress.

“Our end aim is for women to have healthy lifestyles, supportive relationships and meaningful opportunities in their life, devoid of offending.”

The programme will be open to referrals from the Probation Service, clients of Donegal Women’s Centre, referrals from social workers, Donegal Domestic Violence Services, An Garda Síochána and direct referrals from the courts.

Referrals will also be taken from women who are at risk of entering the criminal justice system.

Referrals will be considered from any other agency as deemed appropriate.

Donegal Women’s Centre are encouraging any services that have identified clients who would benefit from this programme to email them for a referral form.

“Please note that we can make a small contribution towards travel and childcare where a barrier to attending the programme exists,” added Ms Herlihy.

For more information, email donegalwomenscentre @gmail.com or telephone (074) 9124985.

Referrals can be made using the attached form and emailed/posted for my attention.

Receive quality journalism wherever you are, on any device. Keep up to date from the comfort of your own home with a digital subscription.
Any time | Any place | Anywhere