A leading domestic abuse charity has issued a stark warning ahead of the World Cup, as police arrested over 200 people in pre-tournament raids. Women's Aid revealed that incidents of domestic violence increase by more than 38% when England loses a match and by 26% when the team wins.
Charity Highlights Alarming Statistics
According to Women's Aid, an estimated 3.8 million people aged 16 and over in England and Wales – nearly 8% of the population – experienced domestic abuse last year. This includes 2.2 million women and 1.5 million men. The charity warns that high emotions and increased alcohol consumption during major sporting events can exacerbate existing abuse.
Veronica Oakeshott, Head of External Affairs at Women’s Aid, said: “Major sporting events, such as the football World Cup which starts this week, are a fantastic opportunity for us to come together and cheer for our teams, yet the tragic reality is that this can also be a time of heightened danger for women and children living with perpetrators of domestic abuse.”
She added: “Football matches do not cause domestic abuse, but factors associated with big matches such as increased alcohol consumption and emotions running high can make existing domestic abuse increase in frequency and severity. Research by Lancaster University shows that domestic abuse can rise by up to 38% after a big game, leaving a greater number of women and children vulnerable.”
Police Operation Targets Offenders
West Midlands Police carried out a series of raids at the homes of suspected offenders to “send a clear signal to perpetrators.” The force reports its highest number of domestic abuse reports during June and July each year, with sporting occasions often blamed for the surge.
Detective Inspector Charlie Sparks said: “Daily, we go out and arrest the domestic abuse offenders. We have the 999 calls where we go out and try and get there as quickly as we can, to put that safeguarding in place. Then on my department, the investigation team works tirelessly to try and get those charges through as quickly as we can for the offenders, and put that good safeguarding in place.”
During Euro 2024, police reported 351 domestic abuse incidents linked to football. Violence against women and children includes physical, psychological, emotional, coercive control, financial, economic, and sexual abuse.
Support Services Available
Another charity, Solace, has launched a #StopItComingHome campaign, a play on the iconic England anthem “Football’s Coming Home.” The campaign aims to raise awareness and encourage victims to seek help.
If you think you might be experiencing domestic abuse, you can call the 24/7 National Domestic Abuse Helpline at 0808 2000 247.
