Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 4 December 2012
593. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Health if he will indicate the safe ratio of staff for a domestic violence refuge, including any children that may need care and supervision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53904/12]
View answerIn the context of increased demand for domestic violence services, the HSE is conducting a national and regional review of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence services that are funded by the HSE. The aim of this review is to ensure that funding is allocated and informed by need. The four HSE regions have set up governance groups to analyse the information that was gathered in the review and a full report will be prepared of the findings.
The HSE's National Office for Domestic, Sexual and Gender based Violence Services funds 42 frontline domestic violence service providers. 20 of these provide refuge accommodation and this number has risen from 15 since 2000. The services provide a wide range of supports such as crisis refuge, advocacy and counselling and were funded to the amount of €13.465M in 2012. These services are aimed at the prevention of domestic violence and ensuring that all families experiencing or at risk of domestic violence will receive a continuum of supports from health and community service providers, who will understand the issue and who will recognise and respond to the impact this type of violence has on health as per the HSE Policy.
