Council fears that domestic abuse will increase during the World Cup

With the World Cup getting underway this weekend, Sefton Council is reminding people across the Borough that domestic abuse – which spikes during football tournaments – is entirely unacceptable.

Previous research has shown that during football tournaments, domestic abuse has risen dramatically. Figures jumped by up to 27% during England World Cup games and reached 32% when they were defeated. But figures also rose when England won.

Sefton Council is advising anyone who is at risk themselves or whose child, family member or friend are at risk of harm to contact the police urgently by calling 999.

Information about the advice and support available locally for people concerned about domestic abuse is also available from www.sefton.gov.uk/enough22.

Cllr Trish Hardy, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing said:

“Whether it is physical emotional or sexual, domestic abuse and coercive control that can go with it is unacceptable at any time.

“The shocking statistics around football tournaments mean there will be people, and statistics show the vast majority of them will be women, across Sefton fearing the next few weeks while the World Cup is taking place.

“And because abusers can be controlling making leaving an abusive relationship very hard, it is vital that friends and family support someone they suspect is being abused.

“Encourage them to speak to you or a professional about what is going on.”

Cllr Hardy said the tell-tale signs to look out for can include the person making excuses for their abuser’s behaviour, a high incidence of sickness absence or a nervousness talking openly when their abuser is around.

She added:
“In an emergency, people should always dial 999 but if they want to find out how they can support someone they suspect is being abused, they should visit www.sefton.gov.uk/domestic-abuse.”