While many eagerly anticipate the World Cup, which begins on Thursday 11 June and unites football fans worldwide, there is a deeply concerning issue that warrants our urgent attention − the increase in domestic abuse during the football season.
A study by Lancaster University found that reported cases of domestic abuse increased by 38% when England lost a match and 26% when they won or drew.
While another study, conducted by University of Warwick, found that an England victory in a international tournament is followed by a 47% increase in the reported number of alcohol-related domestic abuse cases.
During the 2024 Euros, the police reported 351 domestic abuse incidents as football related.
We know that football and alcohol do not cause domestic abuse, but existing abuse can intensify during major tournaments, and many learn to dread them.
The beginning of the season and the associated betting can add another layer of risk. Domestic abuse rates are known to increase by up to 10% after a football team experiences an unexpected loss.
2 million women are estimated to be victims of violence perpetrated by men each year in the UK, this happens all year round, at all levels and in all areas of our society.
Violence against women and children doesn’t only mean physical abuse, it is also psychological or emotional abuse, coercive control, financial and economic abuse, as well as sexual abuse.
If you think you might be experiencing domestic abuse, call the local Victim Support helpline on 0300 323 9985, 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday or start a live chat any time.
You can also call the 24/7 National Domestic Abuse Helpline at 0808 2000 247.
In an emergency, always call 999.
There are many local resources available to help navigate domestic abuse and increase your safety.
While Victim Support can offer general support, there are other services available which might fit more specific requirements and cater to your individual situation. Details of these local services are available on our support for victims of domestic violence and abuse webpages.
All websites mentioned have a quick exit feature.
If you’re worried about your own behaviour in relationships, it’s important to know that support is available to help. Be brave and reach out!
Call Respect phoneline at 0808 802 4040 to talk about your behaviour in confidence. A Helpline Advisor will listen to you without judgement and give you honest advice. You can also access their webchat and resources on the Respect Phoneline website.
The Cranstoun Men and Masculinities programme is designed to support men who are aware that their behaviour is damaging or distressing within their relationships.
You can learn more about the programme and how to reach out on the Cranstoun website.
Councillor Sam Parrott, lead member on violence against women and girls at Brighton & Hove City Council, said: “For many of us, the World Cup is a chance to unite in anticipation, joy, celebration, pride or, in the worst-case scenario, collective disappointment.
“For many women and children living in abusive households sadly it is a time of heightened fear and dread.
“It is important to keep the link between tournament season and domestic violence in mind, be vigilant, care about others and call out inappropriate behaviour.
“If you’re experiencing domestic abuse, whether physical or emotional, please don’t hesitate to reach out to any of the fantastic organisations set up to help you and support you in finding your way to safety. This isn’t just for the World Cup; support is always just a phone call or tap on a keyboard away.
“If you’re worried about your own behaviour, alcohol consumption or the effect of heightened emotions that the World Cup season brings, be brave reach out to the Respect phoneline. No football match in the world is worth the safety, wellbeing and trust of your family and future of your relationship with your partner or children.”
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