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The FIFA World Cup is in full swing and England are in the quarter finals, but we also expect to see a rise in domestic violence and abuse.
Increased levels of abuse
Levels of domestic violence and abuse are known to increase around the time of major sporting events. Several different studies suggest that when it comes to team sports, incidents of domestic abuse across many countries increase during or after games.
According to research based on interviews with women who’d experienced domestic abuse during sporting events, abusive partners may use sports games as a way to exert control over their partners.
This can take the form of:
- Psychological: Threats and controlling behaviours
- Sexual: Forceful or harmful behaviours during sex
- Emotional: Insults or withholding affection
- Financial: Monitoring spending or limiting access to bank accounts
Domestic abuse can occur between parents, children, spouses, roommates, or any 2 people who share an intimate relationship.
Help is available
Councillor Holly Whitbread, Chair of Epping Forest Community Safety Partnership said:
It is a sad fact that for some people whether their team loses or wins, the event is frequently marked by domestic abuse against their partner.
But there is help available at the end of a phone or the click of a mouse to support victims and survivors of domestic abuse.
Where to seek help and support
If you, or someone you know either personally or through work is affected in this way please be extra aware in the remaining weeks of the World Cup, and seek help and support from:
Essex COMPASS
A single point of access funded by Essex County Council in partnership with the Office of Essex Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner to support victims of domestic abuse. Visit the Essex COMPASS website or call the Essex Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0330 333 7 444.
SETDAB
Southend, Essex and Thurrock domestic abuse partnership. Visit the SETDAB website.
Women’s Aid
Women’s Aid aims is to end domestic abuse against women and children. Visit the Women’s Aid website.
Crimestoppers
Crimestoppers can also help if you are too scared to speak up. You can talk to them 100% anonymously. Visit the Crimestoppers website or call them on 0800 555 111.
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