Esker House celebrates awards success

Esker House is celebrating a significant milestone following the announcement that it has been honoured with two prestigious awards.

The Athlone-based service was named a winner at the Westmeath Cathaoirleach Awards, receiving the Pride of Place award, and secured the Midlands 103 Customer Service Award in the Healthcare/Caring Services category.

The Pride of Place Award, presented as part of the annual Cathaoirleach Awards, celebrates organisations that embody the spirit, resilience, and collaboration within Westmeath.

Speaking following the announcement, Head of Services at Esker House, Deirdre Berry, said: “Reflecting on recent times, we can really feel a shift across services, agencies, and the wider community. For years we have actively tried to create spaces where proactive and progressive conversations could happen. But now there is a growing openness to partner, to stand together, and to actively tackle domestic abuse with a deeper understanding as a whole community, while supporting victims and survivors.

The Pride of Place recognition has truly solidified this sense of momentum and action and made it feel tangible and real for all of us.”

Esker House has long been at the forefront of advocating for those affected by domestic abuse across Westmeath, working to ensure that survivors are not only supported but truly seen, heard, and valued.

Ms Berry emphasised that addressing domestic abuse requires a deeper understanding of its root causes, moving beyond outdated and harmful narratives:

“Abuse is not caused by poor choices, or by something a victim has or hasn’t done. It is rooted in power, control, and inequality. It is a deliberate pattern of behaviour used to dominate and intimidate. As a community, we must continue to call this out clearly and hold those responsible to account, while ensuring survivors receive the respect, safety, and support they deserve.”

She also highlighted the importance of strong partnerships across Westmeath, particularly the ongoing collaboration with the local authority and its elected representatives:

“A key part of this progress has been the strength of our partnerships right across Westmeath County Council, including the ongoing support of elected members. From working closely with planning on the development of a new refuge, to strengthening housing supports, and linking with community development initiatives — there is a shared commitment to making real, lasting change.

“The backing of councillors alongside council teams has been instrumental in driving this forward. These relationships are vital in ensuring that survivors have access to safe, sustainable pathways forward and that services are connected, responsive, and effective.”

Midlands 103’s Customer Service Award recognises organisations that consistently deliver high standards of service, responsiveness, and compassion — values that are central to Esker House’s ethos.