RCNI Press Release - 29 March 2011

Rape Crisis Network Ireland (RCNI) are delighted to launch our new useful and simple phone Apps. Early feedback to the App is very positive with many people circulating news about these Apps. Sexual violence is everyone’s business and these apps are for everyone.

Fiona Neary, RCNI Director said, ‘the RCNI would like to put out the very clear message that these simple and useful Apps are available and are relevant to everyone, as well as to victims and women.

'Sexual violence is prevalent in Ireland. 1 in 12 children are raped. That means in an average size class of leaving Certificate students in Ireland, three of those students are likely to have been raped. 1 in 16 women will be raped as adults. The reality is that whether you are aware of it or not, you know someone who has been raped. One of your friends may choose to confide in you – so, this makes this app your business too.

‘As a friend you might be the first person a young person talks to about a sexual assault. Having someone to trust and confide in can be very important for a survivor. If you are that person what is the right thing to do? Where do you find the information you need to support your friend? Where can you get support for yourself? Download this FREE app and you will always have this information to hand – it’s that simple! The App is available to download for FREE by going to www.rcni.ie/apps.

This App contains a range of useful information, support, advice, contact details and links. They are very easy to use putting many of the answers directly into the palm of your hand.

Fiona Neary went on to say, 'so far we have had great feedback about the Iphone and Droid Apps. It has a five star rating arising from the 500 plus people who have downloaded them to date. We are encouraged by people’s enthusiasm for forwarding and circulating the app to friends, colleagues and through social media. However, what we have noticed is that much smaller numbers actually download. We would like to encourage people to help get the word out and also to download the App onto their smartphones if they have them.’
Notes

- Prevalence figures above come from the SAVI report 2002

-Information available on the App include:

• How can I help if someone tells me about an assault?
• Who are the professionals and services that are out there to lend support?
• How can I or my friend contact them?
• What is the law?
• What happens if someone goes to the Gardaí?
• Is there specialist medical care nearby?
• How can you help make it safer for everyone?
• What if I was drinking?

-the iphone App was developed with support from Cosc: the natioanl office for the prevention of Domestic, sexual and gender based violence, grant for awareness raising

- the Android App was developed by glandore systems who kindly donated their time and expertise
For information or further comment please contact:

Clíona Saidléar 087 2196447