Durkan praises ‘excellent work’ of Foyle Women's Aid on occasion of charity’s 40th anniversary celebrations

Foyle Women’s Aid has been praised for the “excellent work” in helping thousands of victims of domestic violence in Derry and the wider North West since it was set up in 1976.

Congratulating the charity on its 40th anniversary, Foyle SDLP MP Mark Durkan said figures also showed one in four women suffered domestic violence at some stage in their lives, yet no single group embodied the drive and commitment needed to tackle this issue more so than the staff and volunteers of Foyle Women’s Aid.

He added: “For 40 years, they have worked with a number of partners from the statutory, voluntary and community sectors not only to respond to the blight of domestic violence and sexual abuse in the North West but also to proactively prevent it.

“Foyle Women’s Aid have also offered a safe and secure refuge for women and who have been the victims of domestic abuse and have undergone some terrible experiences.

“They have been pathfinders for new service models and ever-stronger partnerships with other agencies. Their insight and experience has enabled them to advise, educate and train other services to more awareness and better responses for victims. This pathfinding role will reach new levels with One Safe Place as Foyle Women’s Aid and partners work to deliver a model Family Justice Centre.”

Photo shows with Marie Brown, Director of Foyle Women’s Aid, at the charity’s accommodation complex on the outskirts of Derry (Ashleywood House).