Show the red card to domestic violence during World Cup
A new campaign has been launched to highlight the rise in abuse during match days...
ADOMESTIC abuse charity has launched a campaign to highlight the rise in domestic abuse cases during major football tournaments.
Stoke-on-trent-based Glow is a charity that works to address, overcome and end relationship abuse.
It helps people experiencing abuse in many ways, including tailored support, emergency safe accommodation and support for children and young people.
As the start of the World Cup approaches, Glow is raising awareness of the increase in domestic abuse cases around major football tournaments.
Data from the National Centre for Domestic Violence shows domestic abuse increases by 26 per cent on match days.
Further research from London School of Economics and Political Science shows that if a game is lost, this rises to 38 per cent.
When alcohol is involved, domestic abuse cases nearly double and rise to 47 per cent.
Glow is urging anyone who recognises this behaviour in themselves during the football season to reach out for support during the World Cup and beyond.
The charity offers support and advice and can put people in touch with other services that help people responsible for abuse to change their behaviour.
Operations manager Jackie Capewell said: “We can’t ignore the research. Whether England win, lose or draw, domestic abuse cases increase. That’s why we’re choosing to highlight these facts during this year’s World Cup.
“Football doesn’t cause domestic abuse – it isn’t incident-led.
“It’s a wide range of unhealthy behaviours used to gain power and control over another person. This can continue long after the final whistle.
“We want football to come home this year, but not domestic abuse. Home should be a safe space for everyone, so if your behaviour is causing others to feel unsafe please reach out for support.
“Together we can address, overcome and end domestic abuse.”
To spread the message,
Glow has created and printed awareness stickers with the slogan #Dontbringithome.
They will be distributed to pubs, bars and community hubs to spread the message to as many football fans as possible.
The same message will also be displayed on billboards across the city and social media.