Donegal Women’s Centre's Annual Report: Over 3,400 hours of counselling delivered

Donegal Women’s Centre has released its 2024 Annual Report, showcasing a year of expanded reach, deeper impact, and unwavering commitment to supporting women across County Donegal.

In 2024, a total of 344 women attended counselling and physiotherapy sessions, receiving 3,447 hours of one-to-one counselling, a record level of support demonstrating the Centre’s vital role in promoting mental health, resilience, and wellbeing.

“This statistic represents more than hours, it represents trust, courage, and the journeys of women taking steps toward healing,” said Mary Herlihy, Manager of Donegal Women’s Centre.

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The Centre successfully launched its Menopause Programme, “Menopause is Everyone’s Business”, providing a safe, inclusive space for women to access evidence-based guidance, peer support, and open discussion about this significant life transition. Participants praised the programme for filling a gap in public health conversations and offering both professional advice and emotional support.

The Centre continued its collaboration with the Probation Service, providing person-centred, trauma-informed programmes for women involved in or at risk of entering the justice system. Through weekly wellbeing sessions, one-to-one counselling, and mentoring, the Centre helps women rebuild their lives, develop resilience, and reintegrate into society.

Partnerships with statutory agencies enabled targeted support for women in need, reflecting both the trust placed in the Centre’s services and the importance of interagency cooperation.

In 2024, funding was secured to deliver tailored wellbeing programmes for women living in International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS) Centres, supporting those who have fled conflict, persecution, or trauma. Programmes included mindfulness sessions, creative therapies, peer support circles, and mental health workshops, focused on healing, empowerment, and building a sense of safety.

The Centre’s Women’s Health & Family Planning Clinics saw significant engagement in 2024: 1,374 appointments attended, 893 women attended for an appointment, 215 new clients registered, 484 cervical screening appointments, 202 menopause appointments and The Centre’s iLash Clinic also experienced strong engagement in 2024: 48 clinics delivered, 637 clients attended, 127 new clients, 34 clients aged between 15–17 years.

These clinics provide crucial specialist support for young women and teens, delivering services that foster confidence, well-being, and self-care. These figures underscore the Centre’s commitment to providing accessible, professional, and compassionate healthcare services that empower women to take control of their health and wellbeing.

The Centre expressed gratitude to funders, donors, volunteers, and staff, whose generosity and dedication make the delivery of trauma-informed services possible. Special thanks were extended to the Board of Directors for their voluntary oversight and commitment to governance, transparency, and mission-driven work.

“We are continually inspired by the courage of the women who use our services,” Mary Herlihy added. “It is a privilege to witness the brave steps taken toward healing, resilience, and empowerment. Each woman who stands up for herself, in doing so, stands up for all women.” Maya Angelou.

The 2024 Annual Report highlights the Centre’s ongoing commitment to dignity, empowerment, and holistic support, continuing to make a measurable difference in the lives of women and families in Donegal.

For more information, contact Donegal Women’s Centre at 074 9124985 or visit the Centre’s website.