Specsavers Newry partners with Women's Aid Armagh Down

Specsavers Newry has partnered with Women's Aid Armagh Down to give women affected by domestic and sexual abuse access to eye and hearing care services. The new partnership will provide women using the charity's services with eye tests, hearing checks, treatments and support, including prescription glasses and hearing care whenever they need it.

Women's Aid Armagh Down plays a crucial role in supporting survivors of domestic and sexual abuse, with 1,237 women using its services in the 2024/25 year. Of these, 470 identified as having a disability or complex need, including 10 with visual disabilities and 16 with hearing disabilities. As part of the ongoing partnership, the charity has also delivered awareness training sessions for Specsavers colleagues, helping them better understand the experiences and challenges faced by women affected by abuse.

Helen Cranney, Deputy CEO of Armagh & Down Women's Aid, said the partnership would make a real difference to women rebuilding their lives. "The PSNI receive a domestic abuse-related call every 16 minutes. Domestic abuse affects women in so many ways, including their ability to access healthcare. Often these women have experienced injuries that can affect both their eyes and ears. Having this partnership with Specsavers Newry is a vital step in helping women availing of our services who are seeking help to rebuild their lives. Eye and ear health services can make a real difference in ensuring that these women feel supported and heard."

Will Stevenson, optician director at Specsavers Newry, said the store was proud to support the work of Women's Aid. "We are in awe of the work that Women's Aid do throughout the country. Everyone deserves access to healthcare in a safe and welcoming environment. Through this partnership, we hope to remove barriers to eye and hearing care for women affected by domestic abuse, while also raising awareness of the challenges many continue to face."

The partnership reflects a shared commitment to ensuring women can access the healthcare and support they need in a safe, compassionate and accessible environment. Further information on the work carried out by Women's Aid to tackle domestic violence in Northern Ireland is available at www.womensaidarmaghdown.org.