A new pilot programme is underway in the north west of Ireland, training community members to recognize signs of abuse and connect individuals with specialist support services.
Recognizing Subtle Signs of Abuse
The programme, called ‘Safe to Call,’ is being delivered by the Domestic Violence and Advocacy Service [DVAS]. It’s a first-of-its-kind initiative operating across Sligo and Leitrim.
Programme Trainer Michelle Alonso emphasized that domestic abuse isn’t always obvious. She stated, “People believe it’s overtly obvious, but it’s not. It’s subtle, it’s manipulation and it’s mind games.” The training aims to equip participants to understand domestic violence, coercive control and respond appropriately to disclosures, without being asked to directly handle abuse situations.
Project Co-ordinator at the Ballymote Family Resource Centre, Yvonne Molloy, expressed hope that the training will empower individuals to intervene and prevent years of trauma for victims. She noted the increasing numbers of domestic violence and coercive control cases her centre is seeing.
A Survivor’s Perspective
Christine, a survivor of domestic abuse, shared that a common experience among survivors is a sense of silence and shame. She described finding the courage to speak out as a “huge” step, and emphasized the transformative power of support organizations, offering a space to be heard and begin rebuilding a life.
She explained that abuse often escalates over time, involving tactics like “chipping away of confidence, constant gaslighting, blaming, threatening, being accused of being crazy, financial abuse, emotional, psychological and coercive control.” She sought assist when her life was threatened and was connected to DVAS through Women’s Aid, realizing the abuse was not her fault.
The Sligo Leitrim Children and Young People Services Committee, the Mohill Family Support Family Centre, and the Ballymote Family Resource Centre are also involved in the pilot programme. Plans are in place to potentially expand the initiative to other professions in the north west.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the goal of the ‘Safe to Call’ programme?
The programme aims to train trusted community members to recognize signs of abuse and safely connect people to specialist support services, like DVAS.
What does the training involve?
The ‘Safe to Call’ training will develop participants’ understanding of domestic violence and coercive control, and build their confidence in identifying warning signs and responding appropriately.
What did a survivor of abuse share about her experience?
Christine, a survivor, stated that many survivors experience shame and silence, and that accessing support organizations can be life-altering, offering a safe space to be heard and rebuild their lives.
How can communities best support those experiencing domestic abuse?
