Reach Out for Support
Our Story

How It Started

Lifeline (Inishowen) was founded in 1996 in response to the clear need for dedicated domestic abuse support within the community.

Initially focused on women and children, the service has grown to support anyone affected by domestic abuse.

Today, we also work with men, families of children with additional needs, families affected by Mica-related stress, and parents experiencing abuse from children.

From the beginning, our focus has been respectful, steady and professional support. That commitment continues to guide our work.

Our Vision

We are committed to increasing awareness of domestic violence and its long-term effects across Inishowen.

Our vision includes:
  1. Enhancing existing services
  2. Developing new mental health and well-being programmes
  3. Strengthening training and awareness initiatives
  4. Expanding collaboration across Donegal and Northern Ireland
  5. Providing aftercare support and education to families and individuals recovering from domestic violence
The empowerment of women and families recovering from domestic violence remains central to our plans.

How We Work

We operate from strong Community Development principles.
Our approach is grounded in:
Empowering and enabling, offering support
Respect and confidentiality
Starting from where the person is at
A partnership model of working
We believe support should strengthen confidence and restore control. We stand alongside those affected by abuse and work at a pace that feels safe and manageable. Our service includes:
Helplines
Advocacy
Counselling for adults and children
Court accompaniment
Outreach support
Awareness programmes
Training programmes for businesses, schools, and community groups
We are the only specialised Domestic Abuse Service in Inishowen. We collaborate with organisations across Donegal and Northern Ireland to strengthen local responses and improve outcomes for service users.

Our Aims and Objectives

Our work is guided by clear objectives:
To research the nature and extent of domestic violence in Inishowen
To share accurate information about domestic violence
To increase awareness across the community
To provide a confidential helpline and listening ear service
To provide court accompaniment
To deliver training and awareness programmes
To network with groups working in the area of domestic violence
To advocate for policy change

We are also expanding counselling and wellbeing programmes that support families, children, and individuals experiencing emotional or mental health challenges.

Work With Us to Strengthen Support in Inishowen

Domestic abuse support, counselling services, and family support programmes remain essential across Inishowen. Lifeline continues to strengthen services so that people can access help earlier and feel supported throughout their recovery.
Reach Out for Support
Registered Charity No 20200854 CHY 19971
We confirm that our organization complies with the Governance code for the Community
Voluntary and Charitable Sector in Ireland
@2026 Lifeline (Inishowen). All rights reserved.