247 people have accessed domestic violence services at a Longford support centre since the start of the year.
According to new figures from Longford Women's Link, the figure includes women and children, with 185 of these resulting in court dates for including barring and protection orders.
The domestic violence service that operates at the Longford centre says the pandemic has seen a disturbing rise in the number of cases being reported.
Longford Women's Link was able to keep their helpline open across the pandemic, while other supports were forced to reduce services do to public health restrictions.
Domestic Violence Coordinator at LWL, Heather McKenna, says while local figures are distressing, there are still many people suffering who are unable to come forward for help.
