Spike in domestic abuse incidents during World Cup

Tuesday, 17 July 2018 16:00

Soaring temperatures over recent weeks and big events such as the World Cup are thought to have contributed to a spike in domestic abuse incidents.

At the peak, on Saturday 7 July - the day of the England vs Sweden game – West Yorkshire Police received 297 reports related to domestic abuse. This is in comparison to 169 reports on the equivalent Saturday last year (8 July 2017).

West Yorkshire Police saw increases again on the day of the England vs Croatia game on Wednesday 11 July, with 218 reports (compared to 142 on equivalent day in 2017) and on Saturday 14 July, the day of the third place play-off against Belgium with 253 domestic abuse logs (compared to 196 on equivalent day in 2017).

Detective Chief Inspector Fran Naughton, of West Yorkshire Police’s Safeguarding Central Governance Unit, said: “During this year’s World Cup tournament, we have also experienced an unprecedented heatwave and the likelihood is that the increase we have seen is not just due to the football.

“While there may be a number of factors that have contributed to this rise in offences, one common theme will probably be increased alcohol consumption; whether that’s while watching the football, at family BBQs and other social events or while out at licensed premises enjoying the warm weather.

“Our World Cup domestic abuse campaign has now come to an end but we work year round to raise awareness of domestic abuse and encourage both victims and perpetrators to reach out and get help.

“Anyone with concerns about their own relationship or with concerns for a family member, friend or neighbour can seek advice by speaking to one of our dedicated district safeguarding units.

“There are also a number of support organisations who work with people affected by domestic abuse and contact details for them are also available on our website.”

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