Meath Women's Refuge now known as 'Willow Domestic Abuse Services'
Meath Women’s Refuge & Support Services is now officially known as Willow Domestic Abuse Services following a rebranding of the organisation.
The new name and brand were formally launched yesterday (Wednesday) morning at 'Courage & Hope', a special event at the Solstice Arts Centre, attended by staff, community members, partners, stakeholders and supporters.
Thoughtfully developed over the past two years in consultation with staff, board members, and women and children who have used the service, the new identity has been designed to feel warm, inclusive and accessible, ensuring that any woman or child seeking support can see themselves reflected in the brand and feel confident that help is available.
The event also marked the launch of Willow Domestic Abuse Services’ new five-year strategy, setting out a clear and ambitious roadmap for the organisation’s future.
The strategy outlines plans to strengthen and expand frontline supports, deepen prevention and education work across the county and continue building strong partnerships to ensure a coordinated community response to domestic violence and abuse.
Grounded in the voices and experiences of women and children, it reaffirms the organisation’s commitment to accessible, high-quality services and to working towards a future free from domestic, sexual and gender-based violence.
Speaking at the launch, Frances Haworth, CEO, said: “This is a significant moment for our organisation and for the community we serve. We have been truly bowled over by the strength of support from across Meath, from partners, funders, volunteers and the wider community, who stand with us in this work.
"Willow is a symbol of strength, healing and growth — values we see in the women and children we work with every day. Our new name, alongside the launch of our five-year strategy, reflects both the breadth of our services today and our clear commitment to being a visible, inclusive and supportive organisation for every woman and child affected by domestic violence and abuse in Co. Meath.”
Importantly, the change is in name and brand only. There are no changes to the organisation’s team, services or supports. Willow Domestic Abuse Services continues to operate under the same mandate, providing refuge, outreach, court accompaniment, counselling, and prevention and education programmes across the county.
The launch event featured a conversation with Roisín O’Donnell, author of the bestselling novel 'Nesting' — a powerful book that shines a light on the complex realities faced by women navigating abusive relationships.
The morning also included a panel discussion with organisations responding to domestic violence and abuse, and live music from the Trim Women’s Shed Choir.
The event celebrated International Women’s Day, honoured almost 40 years of service in Co Meath and was a collective reflection on progress made in addressing domestic violence and abuse, and the work still to be done.
In 2025, Willow Domestic Abuse Services provided 84 women and 104 children with emergency refuge accommodation, and supported 588 women and 77 children in the community across Meath.
There were 1,661 helpline calls - with an average of 32 per week. More than 800 hours of adult counselling were provided with some 106 hours of play therapy/ adolescent counselling also provided.
A total of 25 women attended group programmes, while 52 education and awareness sessions were held in the community.