Give domestic abuse the red card this World Cup

With the World Cup kicking off this evening West Mercia Police is reminding people how to spot the signs of domestic abuse.

Data from the National Centre for Domestic Violence revealed that incidents involving domestic abuse increases by 26% when England play and 38% when England lose.

The data also shows that domestic abuse increases by 11% the day after England have played dependant on the result.

As part of the force’s response to the World Cup, it will be taking part in the national campaign aimed at preventing and tackling domestic abuse during the tournament, which starts this evening (Thursday 11 June).

People will also see an increase in police in city and town centres across Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire during matches, and officers will be working closely with partners to reduce further harm to victims.

Even if you can’t see them, our officers will be there, keeping an eye out and helping keep the public safe, including our usual work with partner agencies.

Detective Superintendent Leanne Lowe, from West Mercia Police’s Protecting People Unit, said: “For most people, the World Cup is an exciting time to come together, enjoy the football and support your team with friends and family.

“However, for a small minority, we want to be clear that it is never acceptable to take your emotions or frustrations out on others, particularly those closest to you, such as your partner.

“Everyone deserves to feel safe in their own home. We encourage anyone who is experiencing domestic abuse to come forward and speak to police or access support services.

“We’re not here to stop people enjoying the tournament, but we do urge everyone to drink responsibly, look out for one another.”

PCC John Campion added: “The spectacle of the World Cup is a moment of excitement for many - but for some, it brings fear. Too many women and girls across West Mercia are subject to abuse, often behind closed doors, and that is simply unacceptable. 

“No one should ever suffer abuse. But to achieve that, we need a cultural shift - one that tackles harmful attitudes at their root and challenges behaviour long before it escalates into violence. 

“As PCC, I remain absolutely committed to protecting victims and survivors. I will continue to invest in specialist services, strengthen prevention, and ensure those who experience abuse get the support they need and the justice they deserve.” 

Anyone who believes they are affected by domestic abuse is encouraged to reach out, whether directly to police or via local support services:

• Report domestic abuse | West Mercia Police
• Home - Women's Aid
• Homepage - National Domestic Abuse Helpline
• Clare's Law
• The Police and Crime Commissioner funds a range of domestic abuse and sexual violence services: What are we funding? | West Mercia PCC

Help is available throughout the World Cup tournament and beyond.

Signs of domestic abuse

• Domestic abuse can be a pattern of behaviours or a single incident. Below are common examples across different types of abuse.
• Physical abuse: This can include hitting, pushing or restraining, as well as damaging property as a way to intimidate and blocking someone from leaving a room or the home.
• Emotional or psychological abuse: Signs of this include constant criticism or humiliation, blaming the victim for the abuser’s behaviour, threatening to harm themselves, the victim or loved ones and gaslighting, which is making someone doubt their own memory or sanity.
• Coercive or controlling behaviour: This behaviour includes monitoring movements, messages or social media, isolating someone from friends, family or support and dictating what someone wears, eats or how they spend their time and making all decisions in the household
• Sexual abuse: This includes pressuring or forcing sexual activity, using guilt or threats to obtain sex and ignoring consent or boundaries
• Digital abuse: Signs of this type of abuse can include using technology to track or harass, demanding access to passwords or devices and sending threatening or controlling messages.