Labour launches plan to deliver urgent support for survivors

Labour launches plan to deliver urgent support for survivors - The Labour Party

• €3m fund to support abuse survivors

Labour Leader Ivana Bacik TD, alongside Labour Dublin Central candidate Ruth O’Dea, have today launched Labour Women’s proposal for a €3 million Safe Fund to support victim survivors of domestic abuse, calling on Government to act urgently to remove financial barriers that trap people in dangerous situations. The launch took place today on the Rosie Hackett Bridge in Dublin with Labour urging immediate action to establish the fund.

Deputy Bacik said:
“Too often, the conversation around domestic violence turns to why someone didn’t leave. The reality is far more stark. For many, leaving is not simply a question of will, it is a question of money. Safety needs funding, and right now too many people are being failed at the most critical moment of crisis.

“Labour Women’s Safe Fund is a practical, immediate solution. A €3 million, non-means-tested fund would provide direct financial support to victim survivors when they need it most, whether that is to leave an abusive home or to meet urgent essential costs safely.

“Existing supports are too slow, too complex, and too difficult to access in moments of trauma. We know from frontline services that financial insecurity is one of the biggest barriers preventing people from escaping abuse. This fund would cut through that, delivering fast, flexible support through trusted services.

“No one should ever be forced to choose between their safety and their financial survival. Government must step up and establish this fund without delay.”

Ruth O’Dea said:
“Through my work with Women’s Aid, I have seen first-hand how financial control and insecurity keep people trapped in abusive situations, even when they want to leave.

“Across Dublin Central and right across the country, we know that domestic abuse is a reality that too many people are living with behind closed doors. What survivors tell us again and again is that the system does not meet them where they are.

“This Safe Fund is about dignity, trust and immediate support. It recognises that at the point of crisis, people need access to money quickly, without barriers, without stigma, and without delay.

“This is a common-sense measure that could make a real difference to people trying to rebuild their lives. Government cannot continue to ignore the gaps in support that are leaving people at risk. It’s time to act.”

Labour is calling on Government to establish the Safe Fund as part of a strengthened national response to domestic, sexual and gender-based violence.

Link to the full policy document here.

Link to the summary document here.