The number of victims accompanied to the Sexual Assault Treatment Unit (SATU) in Dublin's Rotunda Hospital jumped by 36% in 2015, the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre (DRCC) has said.

It has described these figures as ‘very concerning'.

"We have yet to analyse these figures as to why there has been such an increase since 2014," commented DRCC chief executive, Ellen O'Malley-Dunlop.

However, she noted that in the UK, 400 offences including child sex grooming and rape, have been linked by the police to users of dating apps.

The DRCC is warning potential users of these apps that there are perpetrators out there who are using them to prey on vulnerable people. It is appealing to people to be as security conscious as possible and not to share personal data unless they are sure about the person they are communicating with.

"We would strongly encourage users to report offences and seek support if they become a victim of any type of crime," Ms O'Malley-Dunlop added.

The DRCC runs a national helpline, which can be contacted at 1800 77 88 88.