Women’s Aid Armagh Down has opened phase one of its ELEOS centre on Downshire Road in Newry. The centre is the first part of a three-phase development plan that took more than 10 years to reach this stage.

The facility offers women and children a location to receive specialist services. Phase one is now in operation. The organisation is seeking funds for phases two and three.

Founder members of Women’s Aid in Newry planted a tree in the centre's garden. The tree serves as a memorial for women in Northern Ireland who died from domestic abuse.

Eileen Murphy, CEO of Women’s Aid Armagh Down, said the centre supports the group's main goals. She said many women find the first step hardest and need a secure place with services available together to start recovery. Murphy said phase three will have a section for children and young people.

She said phase one succeeded due to support from local people, businesses and grants that included one from Community Ownership. The group will start a Buy a Brick campaign to raise money for the remaining phases. A Together We Walk event will take place from Newry Leisure Centre on March 7.