Showing Domestic Abuse the ‘Red Card’
18th June 2018
Even if you’re not a fan of football, you’ll find it impossible to avoid it over the coming month. Everywhere you go people will be talking about the latest game, winner predictions, the best player so far, new anthems and how the referee needs his eyes testing. What you won’t hear so much, is all the negative effects that the World Cup will have on individuals, couples, families and friends regardless of whether England win or lose.
Studies by the National Centre for Domestic Violence, National Police Chiefs Council and the BBC revealed that during the World Cup in 2010, the number of domestic violence cases rose by an average of 25% after England had played. Cllr Simon Blackburn, chair of the LGA’s Safer and Stronger Communities Board stated ‘While the vast majority of those watching football games are not in any way involved in domestic abuse, there is a small minority who will become more violent and put others at risk during this time’.
Katie Ghose, chief executive of Women’s Aid, said that football does not categorically cause domestic abuse; it is the actions and behaviour of abusers that exert control and power over their victims. However, domestic abuse does not happen in a cultural vacuum. The sexist attitudes, chants and behaviour at football matches encourage an environment where women are belittled and demeaned. Although, this is not to suggest that only males abuse their partners. According to research by the ManKind Initiative, 15% of males aged 16-59 have experienced a form of domestic abuse in their life; this is equivalent to 2.4 million males.
The hostile atmosphere that can come with football matches – along with an abusers lack of control on the outcome of the game – could be a possible cause for the rise in cases recorded during the world cup, fuelled with other factors such as alcohol consumption, rivalry and frustration.
Previous research suggested domestic abuse rose by up to 38% after England games, and so Hampshire Constabulary has said it will deploy dedicated response cars to deal with domestic abuse after England’s World Cup matches. An extra five vehicles will be on duty on match days in order to respond and investigate incidents brought to their attention.
Domestic abuse is NEVER okay and there is NEVER an excuse for it. If you are worried about your behaviour or are suffering domestic abuse, there are numerous services that can offer advice and support:
- NHS direct: 111
- National 24 hour Domestic Violence Helpline: 0808 2000 247
- 101 (in emergencies call 999)
- Everyman – A national helpline for men who are violent or are concerned about the effects of their violence, and can provide telephone counselling and advice about local services: 02077376747 (Tuesdays and Thursdays)
