The new Domestic Violence Travel Supplement is available to help cover essential travel costs, whether that’s getting to a safe place, attending appointments or going to court.
If you have been subjected to intimate relationship abuse, you can apply for the Supplement regardless of your means, employment status or whether you are a full-time student. This applies for an initial three-month period.
The amount you receive is based on your individual circumstances and the actual costs of your essential journeys, including fuel costs if you use your own vehicle.
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We know, from our research, that many survivors of abuse face barriers to seeking support. That might include:
- Losing trust in your own judgement
- Fearing for your safety or feeling afraid of what the abuser may do
- Lack of accessible resources
- Feeling ashamed or fearing you won’t be believed
- Financial barriers like being afraid of losing your job, having to leave school, or having to find somewhere else to live
- Unsure who to turn to for support
- Not having a support system to turn to or feeling too isolated to reach out
Financial barriers shouldn’t stop you from getting support. You’re not alone.
To apply for the Supplement, you do not need to be receiving any other Department of Social Protection payment to be eligible.
To qualify, you must satisfy the standard Habitual Residence Condition.
When you apply, your application must include one of the following:
- A referral from a Cuan funded service provider, such as a domestic violence support service.
- A copy of a Court Order, such as a Barring, Safety or Protection Order.
- Written evidence from a member of An Garda Síochána, a healthcare professional (such as a GP, public health nurse, a therapist or Counsellor ), a registered social worker, a legal advisor, or a family support worker.
If you are looking to apply for the Domestic Violence Travel Supplement, applications are made through Community Welfare Officers in the Department of Social Protection, who you can contact on 0818 607080. Or if you’re unsure, you can use the chat service at toointoyou.ie or visit womensaid.ie and search ‘help with travel’.
If you want to learn more about other legal protections and supports you can find that here.
Remember, you deserve to feel safe and live free from fear.
If you’re worried you may be experiencing abuse, or if you’re worried about a friend, you can chat to us at toointoyou.ie or call the Women’s Aid 24hour National Freephone Helpline at 1800 341 900.