New community-based support initiative for women and families in Donegal

Gaoth Dobhair Family Resource Centre (FRC) is working in partnership with Donegal Women’s Centre and Donegal Domestic Violence Services to develop Fothain, a community-based initiative designed to provide a safe, welcoming, and confidential space for women and families in Northwest Donegal.

The name Fothain reflects the idea of shelter, protection, and refuge. Through this collaborative approach, the initiative aims to bring information, emotional support, practical guidance, and specialist referral pathways closer to individuals and families who may need assistance.

The partnership recognises the importance of accessible, compassionate community supports, particularly for women and families experiencing difficult circumstances or seeking information about available services.

Through Fothain, people can access information about local supports and services, emotional and wellbeing support, guidance around domestic abuse and family safety, and information about counselling and therapeutic supports. The initiative also aims to improve access to advocacy, support planning, parenting and family supports, health and wellbeing services, and information on housing, financial, and practical assistance.

Where appropriate, women and families can be connected to specialist services and other community and statutory agencies. Information about supervised access and family contact services may also be provided where relevant.

By bringing these services and referral pathways closer to the local community, the partnership hopes to reduce barriers to support, strengthen connections between services and help women and families access the assistance that best meets their needs.

Fothain reflects a shared commitment to building a safer, stronger, and more inclusive Northwest Donegal, where people feel supported, respected and empowered to seek help when they need

The initiative is delivered through collaboration between Gaoth Dobhair FRC, Donegal Women’s Centre and Donegal Domestic Violence Services. Each organisation contributes to a wider network of support, helping people access appropriate information and specialist services in a community setting.

It is important to clarify that Fothain does not provide refuge accommodation, emergency accommodation, or shelter.

Instead, Gaoth Dobhair FRC acts as a local community access point, helping women and families connect safely with specialist organisations and appropriate support services.