€4.3 Million Boost Announced To Strengthen Victim Support Services Across Ireland.

The Irish government has confirmed funding exceeding €4.3 million to support organisations that assist victims and survivors of crime nationwide.

Of this, €3.8 million will be distributed among ten specialist support groups, including services such as Victim Support at Court, AdVIC, the Crime Victims Helpline, Ruhama, Support After Homicide, Missing in Ireland, Tourist SOS, the Immigrant Council of Ireland, Doras, and the Migrant Rights Centre Ireland.

Reporting a crime can be deeply distressing, and it is essential that victims feel safe, heard, and treated with dignity throughout the process. These organisations play a crucial role in ensuring that individuals receive compassionate support, practical assistance, and clear information about their rights.

The funding will help provide a range of services, including emotional support, counselling, helplines, court accompaniment, and assistance during Garda interviews for those affected by traumatic incidents.

These groups form a vital part of Ireland’s victim support framework, and this investment will help ensure that specialised services remain accessible across the country when they are most needed.

In addition, €480,000 has been allocated to honour existing commitments related to training, research, and advocacy work for victims of crime.

The government has emphasised the importance of ensuring access to support for all victims, particularly those in vulnerable situations and minority communities. The Victims of Crime Fund continues to be a key mechanism in delivering these essential services.

Funding arrangements have evolved in recent years, with organisations supporting victims of domestic, sexual, and gender-based violence now funded separately through Cuan, the national statutory agency established in January 2024.

A multi-annual funding model, introduced in 2024 and covering 2025 to 2027, aims to provide greater stability, enabling organisations to plan effectively for staffing and long-term service delivery.

All applicant organisations are required to demonstrate strong governance, sound financial management, and the capacity to meet monitoring and reporting standards.