Organisations welcome Donegal County Council motion for safe houses
Donegal Domestic Violence Services and Donegal Women’s Centre highlight ‘important recognition’ of issue
A motion passed by Donegal County Council calling for the allocation of one safe house within every new housing development within Donegal has been welcomed by both the Donegal Domestic Violence Services (DDVS) and Donegal Women's Centre.
According to both organisations, the motion represented an “important recognition of the urgent and ongoing need for safe, secure and appropriate accommodation for women and children experiencing domestic abuse across County Donegal.”
The lack of suitable housing, according to the DDVS and Donegal Women’s Centre, could create “significant barriers for those seeking safety, particularly in rural communities where housing options may be limited.”
Fiona Jordan, Interim Assistant Manager of Donegal Domestic Violence Services, said: “The passing of this motion is a significant and welcome step towards recognising safe housing as an essential part of the response to domestic abuse. For women and children experiencing abuse, having somewhere safe and secure to live can mean the difference between remaining in danger and having the opportunity to move forward with dignity and independence.
“We welcome Donegal County Council’s commitment to exploring this proposal and look forward to engaging with the Council and other relevant partners to support its effective implementation. It is vital that the development of safe housing is informed by the experiences and needs of survivors and is accompanied by appropriate supports, safeguards and long-term housing security.”