ONE IN FOUR WOMEN across Ireland are subjected to *domestic abuse, and the time has come for change. #StandStrong is a campaign created by Allianz Insurance and their charity partner Women’s Aid to showcase the nation’s solidarity with women subjected to domestic abuse. The movement aims to engage and empower the people of Ireland to help combat domestic abuse and raise much-needed funds for Women Aid. 

For many women subjected to domestic abuse, the overwhelming emotion they feel is that they’re alone in dealing with the abuse they’re being subjected to. They see no way out and feel trapped at every turn. This campaign hopes to show women that this is not the case and that the entire nation is behind them.

Domestic abuse is a complex issue, it takes many different forms and can frequently come with stigma, which makes it harder for women to speak out. The aim of this movement is not only to raise awareness and in turn lift that stigma but also to raise much needed funds for Women’s Aid so they can continue to support and empower women of all ages who are subjected to domestic abuse. That support comes in many forms including through their 24hr National Freephone Helpline and Instant Message Support Service, as well as a range of face-to-face supports and practical assistance for women in need and so much more.

So, how can you get involved?

You can show your support by donating to Women’s Aid at StandStrong.ie. By doing the yoga warrior pose on February 6th and posting a photo on your social media using #StandStrong to encourage others to do so too. The goal is to flood social media with warrior pose imagery to raise awareness and show women subjected to domestic abuse that they’re not alone. The whole country is behind them.

Source: Shutterstock/ dmitry_islentev

You can do the pose in the comfort of your own home, while out on a walk, in your workplace, wherever you feel comfortable or by joining us at our #StandStrong event on Bray seafront on February 6th. Supported by Gym+Coffee, we’ll be joined by Yin Yoga Jen and everyone who attends will get a free Gym+Coffee #StandStrong beanie. You can sign up for the event here and all proceeds go direct to Women’s Aid.

For more information on how you can donate and get involved in the #StandStrong campaign check out www.standstrong.ie/donate.

If you are someone experiencing domestic abuse be assured that if you contact the National Freephone Helpline on 1800 341 900, or online at www.womensaid.ie, you will be treated with the utmost kindness and discretion, free from judgement.

 * According to figures from the European Fundamental Rights Agency