Nexus NI has been officially awarded the tender to lead the Domestic and Sexual Abuse (DSA) Helpline, ensuring the continuation of a vital support system for survivors across Northern Ireland. The contract was jointly commissioned by the Department of Health, the Department of Justice, and the Department for Communities.

The agreement secures the service for an initial three-year term, with the potential for two subsequent two-year extensions. The helpline provides free, confidential assistance 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to anyone affected by sexual or domestic abuse.

Nexus NI, a specialist organisation dedicated to supporting those impacted by abusive relationships and sexual violence, has operated the helpline since 2019. The reappointment ensures that there will be no disruption to the essential services provided to the public. Justice Minister Naomi Long highlighted the importance of the service: "I understand the trauma that victims of sexual and domestic abuse experience. Sexual violence is one of the most invasive and harrowing crimes anyone can experience, and the impact is incredibly traumatic for victims. Tailored support is essential in helping survivors navigate that trauma and rebuild their lives and so I want to pay tribute to Nexus NI for their proven track-record in delivering this essential service and wish them continued success in the future.

"The Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy, which we launched in September 2024, is an important piece of work, but we can never be complacent if we want to deliver the vision that Northern Ireland should be a place where domestic and sexual abuse is not tolerated and everyone can be safe and free from fear."

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt emphasised the helpline's role as a lifeline, noting the profound impact of abuse on men, women, and children. He remarked: "Ensuring that a compassionate, professional, and accessible 24‑hour freephone service is available is an essential lifeline to people who may be scared, feeling vulnerable and unsure of what to do or where to seek help. This contract will help deliver the reliable support people deserve."

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons added that the funding partnership represents "meaningful joint working across Government" to support those in need.

Joanne Barnes, CEO of Nexus NI, expressed her pride in the appointment: "We are delighted that we have been awarded the tender to manage the DSA Helpline. We have been managing this essential service for the last seven years. We want to assure everyone that the DSA Helpline service will not be disrupted in any way as we take on the new contract. We remain committed to providing immediate, confidential and trauma-informed assistance to all those in need."