Meath Women’s Refuge to become "Willow Domestic Abuse Services"

Meath Women’s Refuge & Support Services has announced it will officially become Willow Domestic Abuse Services marking a significant new chapter for the organisation after almost 40 years of supporting women and children in Co. Meath.

The new name has been carefully developed over the past two years by the organisation’s staff and board, in consultation with the women and children who use its services and will come into effect on 11th March.

The rebrand is designed to better reflect the full scope of supports provided and the organisation’s commitment to being visible, inclusive and accessible to all women and children affected by domestic violence and abuse across the county.

The name Willow was chosen for its symbolism of strength, healing and growth — qualities the organisation says it witnesses every day in the women and children it supports.

A spokesperson for the service said the change represents evolution rather than disruption.

“This is a change in name and brand only. There will be no changes to our team, our services or the supports we provide. Our commitment to women and children in Meath remains exactly the same.”

To mark the rebrand and celebrate nearly four decades of service in the county, the organisation will host a special launch event entitled Courage & Hope on Wednesday, 11th March 2026, at 11am in the Solstice Arts Centre, Navan.

The event will formally introduce Willow Domestic Abuse Services and unveil the organisation’s new five-year strategy. It will also provide an opportunity to reflect on the ongoing challenge of domestic violence and abuse in Co. Meath and how communities and services can continue to respond.

The morning will feature music from Trim Women’s Shed, a conversation with Roisín O’Donnell, author of the bestselling novel Nesting, and a panel discussion involving founding and current members of the organisation, alongside Mary McDermott, CEO of Safe Ireland.

Organisers say the event will be both a celebration of progress and a call to continued action, highlighting the importance of sustained support for those affected by domestic abuse throughout Meath.