Sixty-two incidences of domestic violence took place in Donegal last month.

A new app has been launched to help victims of domestic violence record evidence against their abusers.

The BrightSky app is free to download and can support male and female victims of domestic abuse who are seeking help and information. The app also advises people on how to help a friend affected by domestic abuse.

The app launch comes as an average of around 60 domestic violence incidents take place in Donegal every month.

In June 2019, there were 62 incidents recorded by Gardaí – 36 in the Letterkenny district, 8 in Buncrana, 15 in Ballyshannon and 3 in Milford.

Donegal Domestic Violence Liaison Officer Garda Michelle Kelly has today issued an introduction to the BrightSky Ireland app.

BrightSky App

The app contains a ground-breaking feature designed to log incidents of domestic abuse without any content being saved on the device itself. It enables users to record incidents in a secure digital journal, using a text, audio, video or photo function. Evidence collated through this function will enable Gardaí to intervene and can help secure prosecutions.

BrightSky was created in partnership with UK-based crisis support charity Hestia, Women’s Aid and An Garda Síochána.

The app, the first of its kind in Ireland, enables users to locate their nearest support centre by searching their area, postcode or current location and gives them access to a range of useful tools and supports.

A short questionnaire will help users assess the safety of a relationship while also providing information about different forms of abuse such as sexual violence, stalking and harassment.

The app also highlights the types of supports available, steps to consider if leaving an abusive relationship and how to help a friend affected by domestic abuse.

The public can download Bright Sky for free on both iOS and Android devices on the App Store and Google Play Store.

Garda Michelle Kelly can be contacted at Letterkenny Garda Station if you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse of any sort.

Garda Kelly can meet you, in plain clothes, at a location of your choice to offer advice and a listening ear without judgement. You can meet with her and discuss your worries without any obligation to make a formal complaint and the conversation you have with her can remain confidential and informal.

If you wish to speak with Garda Kelly then call Letterkenny Garda Station on 074-9167100 and if she is not there at that particular time then leave a name (first name only if you wish) and a contact number and she will return your call.

Women’s Aid National Freephone Helpline: 1800 341 900