DONEGAL Women’s Centre has issued an important message ahead of the Christmas and New Year period, urging women and the wider community to be aware of the support services available to those who may be struggling or in danger over the holidays.
While the festive season can be a positive time for many, Donegal Women’s Centre acknowledges that it can be an extremely difficult period for others.
Feelings of loneliness, depression, distress or thoughts of suicide can intensify at this time of year, and for some women, the risk of domestic abuse or personal harm may increase.
The centre is encouraging anyone who is feeling unsafe, overwhelmed or emotionally unwell, or who is worried about someone else, to seek help without hesitation.
Donegal Women’s Centre will close for the holiday period today, Tuesday, December 23 at 1pm and will reopen on Monday, January 5.
However, the organisation stresses that vital emergency and support services will continue to operate throughout Christmas and the New Year to ensure that no woman is left without help.
Anyone who is in immediate danger, or where there is a risk of harm to themselves or others, is advised to contact An Garda Síochána by calling 112 or 999, or to reach out to their local Garda station in Donegal.
Emotional support is available around the clock from Samaritans, who can be contacted free of charge on 116 123.
You can also free-text HELLO to 50808, a confidential, anonymous 24/7 text service with a trained volunteer.
For those experiencing suicidal distress or crisis, Pieta operates a free 24/7 Crisis Helpline on 1800 247 247, and support can also be accessed by texting HELP to 51444 at any time.
Women experiencing domestic abuse can contact Donegal Domestic Violence Services on the freephone number 1800 262 677 or on mobile 087 381 2438.
Additional specialist support is available through the National 24-hour Rape Crisis Helpline on 1800 77 8888, while the Sexual Assault Treatment Unit (SATU) in Letterkenny can be reached on 087 068 1964.
Donegal Women’s Centre is encouraging the public to share this information widely and to check in with friends, family members and neighbours who may be struggling.
The centre’s message is clear, help is available, support is there day and night, and no woman has to face these challenges alone.
