Women's Aid believes domestic violence will only stop through public awareness about the reality of domestic violence for women in Ireland. The media have a vital role to play in communicating to and educating people about the reality of domestic violence, the barriers to women in leaving a violent partner, and the effects of domestic violence on both women and children.

The impact of the media on people's awareness of domestic violence was shown in the results of a Eurobarometer survey, conducted in June 1999, where 96% of those surveyed throughout Europe, had heard of domestic violence, with most of them having heard of it through the media.

Television: 89%

The Press: 65%

Radio: 44%

Women's Aid also recognise the impact of the media on women who are being abused, and how such publicity often works as a vital first step towards leaving a violent partner. Every time Women's Aid is covered Women's Aid either by TV, radio, or print, there is a corresponding rise in the number of calls received to the Women's Aid National Freephone Helpline immediately following its broadcast/publication.

Women's Aid works with the media in two main ways:

• By responding and reacting to media coverage

Women's Aid responds to media queries where appropriate by making data and statistics available and by providing spokeswomen.

By monitoring the media on a daily basis, the organisation is in a position to react to news coverage immediately

• By initiating media coverage

Women's Aid actively seeks media coverage through issuing press releases, and the organisation of press conferences and photo opportunities.

To view Women's Aid Press Releases, please CLICK HERE.

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