Kilkenny Women Gain Free Access to Domestic Abuse Helpline

Women in Kilkenny can now access vital support services without the burden of call charges. Amber, a domestic abuse organisation catering to women and children in Kilkenny and Carlow, has launched a 24/7 support helpline that is completely free for callers. The new freephone number, 1800-819999, aims to eliminate financial barriers that may prevent women from seeking help.

Partnership Enables Free Access

The initiative comes as a result of a partnership between Amber and local technology firm Business IT Solutions (BITS). By sponsoring the new freephone service, BITS ensures that women who lack phone credit or have limited financial resources can reach out for specialized support without hesitation. Lisa Morris, Manager of Amber, highlighted the importance of this development, stating, “An estimated 89% of women in Ireland who report domestic abuse and coercive control also disclose experiencing financial abuse.”

Morris elaborated on how financial constraints can significantly hinder women’s access to support. “Many women’s access to phone credit is withheld or controlled by a perpetrator, while others struggle to pay their phone bills due to the financial abuse inflicted by their partners or family members,” she explained. Previously, calls to Amber’s helpline incurred standard landline charges, which could deter women from reaching out during critical times. The new freephone number aims to address this issue.

Growing Demand for Support Services

Last year, Amber’s helpline received 562 calls from women seeking confidential support and information. The service has also been instrumental in connecting callers to various support options, including emergency refuge, court support, counselling, and services tailored for children affected by domestic abuse. Additionally, there were 44 calls in 2024 from concerned family members and friends of women experiencing domestic violence.

The demand for Amber’s services has seen a noticeable increase, with a cumulative rise of 19% in calls from 2022 to 2024. Sinead Meyler, Account Manager at BITS, expressed pride in sponsoring the new helpline, stating, “We have worked with Amber for many years, ensuring their network and data remain secure. Sponsoring the new 24/7 freephone helpline helps remove a significant barrier for women seeking support when they need it most.”

In conjunction with the new helpline, Amber has also rebranded. Formerly known as Amber Women’s Refuge, the organisation will now operate simply as Amber. This change reflects the full spectrum of support services they provide, both in refuge settings and within the community. Alongside the name change, Amber has unveiled a new logo that symbolizes the protective and healing qualities of the precious stone amber.

To facilitate a smooth transition, callers using Amber’s previous helpline number will be automatically redirected to the new freephone number for several months. Women in need of support can reach Amber at 1800-819999 or visit their website at www.amberservices.ie.