'Groundbreaking' resource launched to tackle domestic violence in Cork

The Cork Children and Young People’s Services Committee has launched a new domestic, sexual, and gender-based violence (DSGBV) resource directory and WhatsApp navigation tool.

The platform, launched by the Tusla-led interagency initiative subgroup Safe and Protected, was designed to provide accessible, localised information for survivors, service providers, and community members.

The Mayor of County Cork, councillor Mary Linehan Foley, officially launched the Sábháil directory at Cork County Council’s Vertigo Room during the national 16 Days of Activism Against Domestic Violence campaign.

The event brought together more than 100 service providers, advocates, and community members from Cork.

The directory and WhatsApp platform for accessing the directory has been devised by Seamus Mullen of Straightforward Research in collaboration with a network of specialist organisations working in the field of DSGBV.

Ms Linehan Foley said Sábháil will provide “expertise, supports, and contact information, developed by specialist DSGBV services throughout Cork, for victims and survivors of domestic and sexual abuse and violence”.

“This directory brings together vital services, supports, organisations’ emergency contacts, and community networks into one accessible place,” said Ms Linehan Foley. 

“It allows survivors, families, and frontline professionals to find the contacts and information they need quickly and centrally.

“All of this is for the victims of gender-based violence, an issue that affects far too many individuals. Cork has seen too many fatal tragedies as a result of domestic and sexual violence. Sábháil will act as a frontline resource to victims and survivors, while pioneering new approaches to building awareness, increasing safety and protection for victims.”

UCC law professor Louise Crowley, who is an advocate for survivors of DSGBV in Ireland, said domestic abuse is “not a women’s problem, it’s an all of society problem”.

“DSGBV is a poison in our society, but I firmly believe it is also one that we can tackle and address,” said Ms Crowley.

“The launch of this groundbreaking DSGBV resource is a result of this proactive effort across this domestic violence support community to come together to share perspectives and knowledge in order to identify and address the existing shortcomings in regards to accessing vital information.

“This Tusla-led Cork CYPSC subgroup has recognised the need and the capacity for an all-services response for those who suffer at the hands of DSGBV.

“This bridge to services, support, and safety is so very, very welcome.”