Long confirms funding for Fermanagh and Omagh Women's Aid

In a recent correspondence with Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Minister Long highlighted the various financial aids provided during the fiscal year 2023/24.

Fermanagh and Omagh Women’s Aid received £12,500 from the Department of Justice's Assets Recovery Community Scheme for their 'Right to be Safe' project. Additionally, the Fermanagh and Omagh Policing and Community Safety Partnership contributed £6,800.

Minister Long reiterated the crucial role of the Department for Communities in supporting Women’s Aid refuges, providing £73,151 to Fermanagh Women’s Aid Refuge and £164,296 to Omagh Women’s Aid Refuge. These funds are allocated to meet the statutory responsibilities towards victims of domestic abuse.

Further support comes through the Supporting People Scheme, which provided £141,465 for Floating Support to Fermanagh Women’s Aid and £35,302 for Floating Support to Omagh Women’s Aid.

In total, Fermanagh and Omagh Women’s Aid received over £433,000 in funding during 2023/24. Minister Long said the financial support highlights the collaborative efforts of various governmental departments and partnerships to ensure the safety and well-being of domestic abuse victims in the region.

She acknowledged the vital work carried out by these organisations and reiterated the Department of Justice's commitment to supporting such initiatives. “I fully recognise the essential services that Voluntary and Community Sector organisations provide, particularly in supporting victims of domestic abuse. We strive to fund these services whenever possible,” said Minister Long.

She also noted: “While routine funding from the Department of Justice to Fermanagh and Omagh Women’s Aid is not typical, the comprehensive support from various sources demonstrates a strong, unified commitment to addressing domestic abuse and ensuring victims receive the necessary help and protection.”