Justice Minister Naomi Long and DAERA Minister Andrew Muir have met with staff from Women's Aid Armagh Down (WAAD) during a visit to the charity's headquarters at the ELEOS Centre in Newry.

The ministers were there to find out more about how the charity supports women and children living in rural communities who are affected by domestic abuse. Minister Long said that while domestic abuse can occur in any home, it can "disproportionately impact women and children in rural communities." She added that services like those provided by WAAD are essential as they can "transcend the isolation and stigma exploited by perpetrators in rural areas." The charity provides services across the council areas of Newry, Mourne & Down, and Armagh, Banbridge & Craigavon, which has one of the highest recorded incidents of domestic and sexual abuse.

Minister Muir said it is particularly important to "shed light on the issue of domestic abuse in rural areas, where these crimes can often go unnoticed and unreported and victims can be more isolated." He also commended the work of WAAD in supporting some of the most vulnerable people in rural communities.

Helen Cranney, WAAD Acting Chief Executive, said the visit was essential for the ministers to see the work happening on the ground. She also announced that the charity is engaged in a £3 million capital fundraising project to deliver its three-phase ELEOS early intervention centre of excellence for women and children dealing with domestic abuse.