THE DUBLIN RAPE Crisis Centre (DRCC) helpline had its highest number of calls ever in 2025.

The national helpline had 23,955 contacts in 2025, up over 5% from 2024 and a 29% increase from 2023. Of these, four in 10 were first-time callers.

DRCC also saw a massive increase in therapy appointments. 7,270 therapy appointments were delivered last year, compared with 5,800 in 2024. 

This consisted of 838 people, up 31.5% from 2024 and up almost 70% over two years. 

DRCC saw an increase across all its services, including its accompaniments. 

It completed over 500 accompaniments at Sexual Assault Treatment Units and 350 accompaniments in garda and court settings.

Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan will launch the full report at an event at noon today. He called the figures “stark”. 

“The report also points to a society more open to talking about sexual violence and survivors and victims more confident in coming forward seeking support.”

He praised the “DRCC leadership team, staff and volunteers for their tireless work and commitment” and the “courage of every survivor who reaches out for support, often for the first time”.

“I remain firmly committed to continue strengthening services and legislation, supporting survivors, and driving lasting cultural change so we achieve zero tolerance for domestic, sexual and gender based violence in Irish society.”

Chief executive of DRCC, Rachel Morrogh, said: “Last year was one of the most demanding and in many ways defining years in Dublin Rape Crisis Centre’s history.

“Above all, I want to acknowledge the courage of every person who reached out to us in 2025, while recognising that there are many more survivors who are still carrying the trauma of sexual violence alone.”

Free and confidential support for anyone affected by sexual violence is available on the 24-hour National Rape Crisis Helpline 1800 77 8888.