Free Travel Support Introduced for Victims of Domestic Violence

The Government has announced a new Travel Supplement for victims of domestic violence, providing financial support to cover immediate travel costs for those fleeing abusive situations. The measure takes effect from Tuesday, 5 May 2026.

The supplement will be available without a means test for an initial period of three months. Following that period, applicants may apply for a further three-month extension, subject to a means assessment and a review of eligibility.

The scheme mirrors the existing Rent Supplement protocol already in place for domestic violence victims, and will be administered by Community Welfare Officers. Payment levels will depend on individual circumstances and the costs of essential journeys, including fuel costs where applicable.

To apply, a person must declare that they are a victim of domestic violence as part of their application. Confirmation can be provided by a referral from a Cuan-funded service provider, a court order, or written evidence from a member of An Garda Síochána, a GP, a registered social worker, a legal advisor, or a family support worker. Where immediate confirmation is not available, an Additional Needs Payment can be provided in the interim.

The initiative was raised in the Seanad by Senator Patricia Stephenson, and follows consultation with Cuan, Women's Aid, Dublin Rape Crisis Centre, and SafeIreland.

Minister for Social Protection Dara Calleary said:

"For anyone experiencing domestic violence, the decision to leave is never easy – and too often, practical barriers like the cost of travel can stand in the way of safety. That is simply not acceptable.

That is why I am introducing a new Domestic Violence Travel Supplement – a measure that I believe will make a real and immediate difference in people's lives.

The travel supplement ensures immediate, no fuss access to this support for victims of domestic violence with their travel needs…"

The Minister thanked Senator Stephenson for raising the issue, as well as the stakeholder organisations who engaged with his department during the consultation process.