New scheme to benefit Longford domestic violence victims
New travel support scheme – which began this week - will help people fleeing domestic violence
Longford Women’s Link (LWL) has welcomed the introduction of a new Government travel support scheme for victims of domestic abuse, saying it recognises the significant barriers faced in rural areas such as Longford.
Speaking to the Longford Leader, LWL CEO Tara Farrell said the introduction of the Domestic Violence Travel Supplement was an important acknowledgement of how travel can be a major obstacle for those trying to leave abusive situations.
She said, “Longford Women’s Link welcomes the introduction of the Domestic Violence Travel Supplement as an important acknowledgement that travel can be a significant barrier for those experiencing domestic abuse, particularly in rural counties like Longford.”
"We await the full details of implementation - from our perspective as a rural service, rollout of the scheme must be practical, flexible and trauma-informed but it is a very welcome initiative from the Minister.”
The new supplement - which was announced recently by the Minister for Social Protection Dara Calleary - came into effect this week, specifically May 5. It is designed to provide immediate financial support for travel costs to people fleeing domestic violence.
Under the scheme, payments will be available without a means test for the first three months, with a possible three-month extension subject to review. It will be administered by Community Welfare Officers and will operate similarly to existing supports such as Rent Supplement for victims of domestic abuse.
Applicants will need to confirm their situation through approved channels, including Cuan-funded services, An Garda Síochána, healthcare professionals, social workers, legal advisors or family support workers.
Where confirmation is not immediately available, emergency assistance can be provided through an Additional Needs Payment.
Minister Calleary said the measure ensures “immediate, no fuss access” to travel support, adding that practical barriers such as transport costs should never prevent someone from leaving an unsafe situation.
He said, “For anyone experiencing domestic violence, the decision to leave is never easy - and too often, practical barriers like the cost of travel can stand in the way of safety."
"That is simply not acceptable. That is why I am introducing a new Domestic Violence Travel Supplement - a measure that I believe will make a real and immediate difference in people’s lives. The travel supplement ensures immediate, no fuss access to this support for victims of domestic violence with their travel needs.”
Longford Women’s Link, which is situated in Willow House, Ardnacassa Avenue, in Longford town, can be contacted on 043 3341511
Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme