Calls to Ireland’s National Rape Crisis Helpline exceeded 20,000 for the first time in 2024, reaching a record high of 22,700 contacts as demand for support services continues to grow significantly.
The Dublin Rape Crisis Centre, which operates the 24-hour helpline supporting survivors of sexual violence across the country, reported a 20% increase in contacts compared to 2023 figures. The data will be detailed in the organization’s annual report set for publication later this year.
DRCC Chief Executive Rachel Morrogh attributed the increase to multiple factors, including survivors becoming more confident about seeking non-judgmental support. However, she emphasized that the rise also reflects “the reality that sexual violence is still an insidious and common occurrence in modern Ireland.”
While encouraged by the growing number of survivors reaching out, Morrogh acknowledged that the contacts represent only a fraction of those living with trauma. “Our message to them today is that they are not invisible to us, that they deserve support, and that when they feel ready to talk, we are ready to listen,” she said.
The most dramatic increase occurred within the DRCC’s therapy services, where counsellors conducted almost 6,000 counselling sessions with survivors in 2024, representing a 57% jump from the previous year. The number of therapy clients increased by 28%, with 140 additional people seeking specialized counselling support. In total, 637 men and women received specialized counselling services.
The organization also provided 287 days of court support for clients navigating the justice system. Morrogh described this work as particularly meaningful, noting that “every time there is a conviction and sentence for a sexual offence, we know it is felt as a victory for those who will never have their day in court or have the validation and catharsis of a guilty verdict.”
The statistics highlight ongoing challenges in reporting sexual violence to authorities. Morrogh referenced Central Statistics Office data showing that “tiny numbers of people who have experienced sexual violence in their lifetime have reported it to the Gardai.”
She identified several barriers preventing survivors from reporting incidents, including fear of not being believed, self-blame, or perceiving their experience as not serious enough to warrant official attention.
Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan acknowledged that sexual violence remains historically underreported but expressed commitment to addressing this issue. “This is something I am committed to addressing, and something that is changing as complainants become more confident in our justice system,” he said.
The DRCC operates multiple support channels for survivors, including the National 24-hour Helpline at 1800 778888, available to anyone affected by sexual violence throughout Ireland. A webchat support service operates Monday through Friday from 10am to 5pm via drcc.ie, and interpreting services are available for non-English speakers.
The record numbers underscore both the ongoing prevalence of sexual violence in Ireland and the critical importance of accessible support services for survivors seeking help and healing.