Write a comment
Eileen Murphy, Chief Executive of Women's Aid Armagh Down, has been awarded an OBE for services to charity in the King's Birthday Honours List.
Responding to the honour, Ms Murphy said she was accepting the recognition on behalf of her wider team rather than as a personal accolade.
"While this award is made in my name, it reflects the work of so many people who have dedicated their lives to supporting women and children affected by domestic abuse," she said. "I am privileged to work alongside an exceptional team at Women's Aid Armagh Down and with colleagues across Northern Ireland who work tirelessly every day to challenge and address what remains one of the greatest social issues facing our communities."
The CEO said that every opportunity to speak publicly about domestic abuse helped to amplify the voices of those affected.
"Every accolade, every mention and every opportunity to speak about this issue gives a voice to women and children experiencing domestic and sexual abuse. It helps ensure their experiences are heard, understood and acted upon."
She added that she was delighted to accept the honour on behalf of the charity's team, volunteers, supporters and, above all, the women and children it serves.
Looking ahead, Ms Murphy said the charity's focus remains on delivering ELEOS, its trauma centre of excellence for women and children impacted by domestic abuse. Phase 1 of the centre has recently opened, with fundraising now under way to deliver Phases 2 and 3 and extend specialist support to more women, children and young people.
