Image Credit: Women’s Aid
Trigger Warning: Domestic abuse
This article contains references to domestic abuse and may be distressing.
The men’s football World Cup is a huge occasion. It’s looked forward to for years, shows what the pinnacle of sporting achievement and skill can be, brings people together and can inspire everyone to be more active.
But there’s also a hidden, darker side to the effects of elite football.
“While football does not cause domestic abuse, existing abuse can intensify around tournaments,” says Women’s Aid. “Research by Lancaster University showed cases of domestic abuse increased by 38% when England lost a match and 26% when they won or drew.”
Domestic abuse is widespread
Their campaigns highlight “the ongoing epidemic of domestic abuse in the country, bringing what is often thought to be a ‘private’ issue into the public domain and sparking important conversations amongst football fans and supporters.”
Around 1 in 3 women (30.3%) and around 1 in 5 men (21.7%) men have experienced domestic abuse since the age of 16 years, according to estimates from the Office for National Statistics.
No one should have to face domestic abuse, and everyone has a role in helping to stop it. That’s why we’re raising awareness of the support available for victims, how active bystanders can help, and the support out there for people worried about their own behaviour.
NHS advice on helping a friend if they’re being abused
If you’re worried a friend is being abused, let them know you’ve noticed something is wrong.
They might not be ready to talk, but try to find quiet times when they can talk if they choose to.
If someone confides in you that they’re suffering domestic abuse:
- listen, and take care not to blame them
- acknowledge it takes strength to talk to someone about experiencing abuse
- give them time to talk, but do not push them to talk if they do not want to
The NHS also has information about signs of domestic abuse.
Where to get help
In an emergency always call 999.
Local organisations
Newcastle Women’s Aid https://www.newcastlewomensaid.org.uk/
Northumberland Domestic Abuse Services (NDAS) https://www.nda.services/
Wearside Women In Need (WWIN) https://www.wwin.org.uk/
National organisations
For anyone
National Domestic Abuse Helpline https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/
NHS https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/getting-help-for-domestic-violence/
For women
Refuge https://refuge.org.uk/
Women’s Aid https://womensaid.org.uk/
For men
Respect Men’s Advice Line https://mensadviceline.org.uk/
Worried about your own behaviour?
Respect is the UK charity stopping people carrying out domestic abuse. https://www.respect.org.uk
Right Turn is a Wearside service for people who want to change the way that they behave towards their partners or ex-partners. https://www.wwin.org.uk/rightturn