The rise in incidents of domestic abuse during and after football matches is well documented. Refuge state that every minute police in the UK receive a domestic assistance call. Police figures say that during football matches this increases by 38% if the perpetrator’s team lose and there is still an increase of 26% if the perpetrator’s team win or draw.
In Ashfield and Mansfield there is a campaign happening to combat domestic abuse during Euro 2016, with posters being strategically placed in pubs to highlight the issue. The headlines such as “Give domestic abuse the red card” and “It’s no excuse for abuse” have been created by Ashfield Community Partnership and Mansfield Community Partnership, working with Nottinghamshire Police.
Their work to highlight the rise in domestic abuse during major sporting tournaments is backed by Women’s Aid, giving the message that violence against women and children will not be tolerated in any circumstances. Women’s Aid have a dedicated worker addressing abuse during sporting events and Nottinghamshire police have deployed additional officers during Euro 2016.
The 24 hour Nottinghamshire helpline number to call if you are experiencing abuse, or concerned about somebody else, is 0808 800 0340
Nationally Women’s Aid launched their Unpunished campaign, at the headquarters of the premier league, on 7th June, with the message: ‘We don’t let violence on the pitch go unpunished – so why do we let violence in the home go unpunished?’. Further information about their campaign and ways that you can show your support, including signing the supporters pledge, can be found here.
It is important that this increase in abuse and violence is acknowledged and addressed, but equally important that we remember that domestic abuse is an ongoing issue. Equation works with survivors, schools, young people, professionals and the community to tackle domestic abuse every day.
If you are experiencing abuse and need help, find more information here.
If you are in immediate danger, call 999.