Abuse cases spike during FIFA World Cup, warns Hampshire Domestic Abuse Partnership
“No one should have to live with abuse, and help is available.”
A new campaign is encouraging people across Hampshire to recognise the signs of domestic abuse and seek support during the FIFA World Cup.
Led by the Hampshire Domestic Abuse Partnership, the campaign is pushing evidence that reports of domestic abuse can increase by more than 25 per cent during major men's football tournaments, rising to as much as 38 per cent when England lose a match.
The Three Lions’ next match is a quarter-final clash against Norway, with kick-off at 10pm on Saturday, July 11.
The campaign aims to raise awareness of controlling and abusive behaviour while encouraging victims to seek help. It also urges friends, family members and neighbours to be aware of the warning signs and know where support is available.
The initiative comes during Alcohol Awareness Week, with Hampshire County Council encouraging residents to think about the impact alcohol can have on their lives and relationships.
While alcohol does not cause domestic abuse and is never an excuse for abusive behaviour, the council says it can increase aggression, lower inhibitions and make already abusive situations more dangerous, particularly during emotionally charged sporting events.
Councillor Joanne Burton, the county council’s executive member for health and wellbeing, said: "Alcohol Awareness Week, the theme of which this year is ‘Alcohol and me’, is an opportunity for all of us to think about how alcohol affects our lives and the people around us.
“While alcohol is never an excuse for abuse, we know it can intensify behaviours, increase aggression and make already difficult situations more dangerous.
“The men’s World Cup can be a time when emotions run high and some people choose to drink more than usual. We want people to reflect on the impact alcohol may be having on relationships and through our awareness campaign, to recognise the signs of abuse and know that support is available.
“No one should have to live with abuse, and help is available for anyone who needs it.”
Anyone affected by domestic abuse, including children and young people, can contact the Hampshire Domestic Abuse Advice Line, run by Stop Domestic Abuse, for free, confidential and independent support on 03300 165 112.