Three outstanding community champions have been honoured with awards today (15^th May) for their work to support survivors and challenge domestic violence in Co. Meath.

The Willow Domestic Abuse Services (formerly Meath Women’s Refuge & Support Services) Community Champion Awards are presented on Go Purple Day each year to mark action by community members to support survivors, raise awareness and create a culture of zero tolerance for all forms of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence in Co. Meath.

To mark Go Purple Day 2026, three awards were presented by Willow Domestic Abuse Services in the categories of Organisation, Individual and Youth at Navan Garda Station.

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Organisation Award: The Rotary Club of Navan

The Rotary Club of Navan have been long-standing partners of Willow Domestic Abuse Services for many years. Rooted at the heart of the Navan community, they consistently go above and beyond to raise both awareness and vital funds for our work. For the past three years, the Rotary Club of Navan has led the annual golf classic in aid of Willow Domestic Abuse Services and to date has raised significant funds towards the cost of a children’s playground at our new refuge development in Navan.

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Individual Award: Debbie Ward

Debbie has been supporting the work of Willow Domestic Abuse Services for 14 years. Christmas can be one of the most difficult times of year for women and children experiencing domestic abuse and each year, Debbie organises 100 hampers which are gifted to women engaging with our services.

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Youth Award: Ruby Clarke

Ruby is a student at Youth Reach, Navan, who is being recognised for opening up conversations about domestic abuse among her peers, researching its impact on children and young people and sharing her findings with her class.

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The winners were presented with a glass award, sponsored by RS Awards, Athboy, by Leas-Cathaoirleach Cllr Caroline O’Reilly at a ceremony in Navan on 15^th May 2026.

Frances Haworth, CEO of Willow Domestic Abuse Services,said:

“This year three exceptional community champions are receiving these awards in recognition of their role. We know that domestic, sexual and gender-based violence is a whole of society problem that requires a whole of society response. These awards recognise the efforts of community members who are starting conversations and reducing stigma in their everyday actions to support survivors. Today we take this opportunity to celebrate the Rotary Club of Navan, Debbie and Ruby for their dedication and commitment to making Meath a safer and more equal place.”

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