Euro 2024 is about to start and as with most international football tournaments, it will bring a great deal of hope and excitement to many homes throughout England.
However, whilst football does bring people and families together, it can also be a trigger for abusive behaviour which places women, in particular, at risk of intimate partner violence.
Domestic abuse during football tournaments
Statistics have shown a troubling correlation between major sporting events and an increase in incidents of domestic violence.
Research from the National Centre for Domestic Violence indicates that domestic abuse cases can increase by as much as 26% when England plays, and 38% if the national team loses.
While football does not cause domestic abuse, the intense emotions and increased alcohol consumption associated with these events can exacerbate existing abusive behaviours.
Additionally, while sporting tournaments, like the Euros, can be a trigger for an outburst of domestic abuse there are often underlying abusive behaviours that go unreported day-to-day. Things like controlling and coercive behaviour, financial abuse, marital rape and reproductive coercion fly under the radar and are difficult for victims to share.
It’s hard for victims to open up and share their concerns about what is going on behind closed doors.
Football-related domestic abuse – What to do?
If you are a victim, or at risk of being a victim, of domestic violence here are several ways to be safe:
- Call 999 as soon as possible if there is any possible risk to personal safety or that of any children. The Police should also be called where there is any possibility of damage to a property. The damage may be occurring in the family home, which children can witness.
- Consider pressing criminal charges if there has been a criminal act.
- Do not be afraid to tell family and friends what is happening so that they can support you. Domestic violence should not be a hidden crime.
- If you are a woman suffering domestic abuse, consider contacting Women’s Aid Integrated Services in Nottingham, who have a 24-hour/7-day helpline. Women’s Aid deals with women’s personal safety issues and can provide advice on how to separate and give support. They can also arrange refuge accommodation in an emergency.
- If there are no criminal charges or bail conditions imposed by the Police, other forms of legal action can be taken, including Non-Molestation Orders and Occupation Orders, which can offer immediate relief and safety.
How can we help?
Melanie Bridgen is a leading Partner in our expert Family Law team, advising on domestic abuse, divorce, child arrangements orders, child abduction, parental alienation, care proceedings, adoption placement breakdown, deprivation of liberty and habitual residence jurisdiction.
At Nelsons, we often come into contact with clients who have suffered from domestic violence and have supported them. Our team are experienced in helping victims of domestic abuse and handles all cases with sensitivity and professionalism to protect you from future abuse.
If you need advice or support, please contact us on 0800 024 1976 or via our online form.
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