Go Purple Day for domestic violence awareness launches in Athlone

Athlone's Esker House Domestic Abuse Support Services, in association with Safe Ireland and An Garda Síochána, are calling on members of the public to 'go purple' this Friday, April 29, to raise awareness of domestic violence and to raise funds for their service.

Women and men of all ages are called on to show their solidarity for women experiencing and exiting domestic abuse by embracing the colour purple for just one day.

Manager of Esker House Women’s Refuge, Deirdre Berry, stated that the event was started two years ago as a local event in Co. Meath by Garda Stacey Looby, to consolidate the community partnership between the Gardaí and local domestic violence service.

"Garda Looby is now stationed in Athlone and we are delighted to have her serving our town with such passion and dedication to ending domestic abuse in all its forms. This year, with the support of Justice Minister Helen McEntee and the support of Safe Ireland, the campaign is being rolled out across the country," said Deirdre.

“The colour purple represents love, strength, dignity and independence all of which embrace the characteristics of a caring community which resists violence against women and girls.”

People at home, school, college and the workplace are encouraged to get involved in the campaign this Friday by wearing, cooking, growing, eating or creating something purple, sharing their image on social media platforms using the hashtag #GoPurple, and donating to Esker House through the iDonate page 'Esker House Women's Refuge and Domestic Abuse Support Service' at idonate.ie

Esker House Women’s Refuge and Domestic Abuse Support Service is the only dedicated refuge service for women and children experiencing domestic abuse in the midland’s region.

Esker House also has a 24hr helpline (0904674122), specialised children’s support service, information and advocacy support and specialised court support and accompaniment service.