Key facts
- Prosecutors in England and Wales anticipate a rise in domestic abuse during the men's World Cup.
- Victims are urged to report incidents, with assurances that perpetrators will be held accountable.
- Alcohol and heightened emotions are cited as factors that can exacerbate domestic abuse.
- Four in five domestic abuse cases referred by police result in charges.
- An awareness campaign, 'The Other Kick Off', has been launched by Women's Aid.
- Research shows a significant increase in domestic abuse incidents when England plays in tournaments.
Prosecutors in England and Wales are bracing for an increase in domestic abuse incidents during the men's World Cup, urging victims to come forward and assuring them that perpetrators will face justice. Olivia Rose, the CPS national stalking lead, noted that major football tournaments often correlate with a rise in domestic abuse cases, emphasizing that while football itself does not cause abuse, alcohol and heightened emotions can worsen it. She highlighted that a high proportion of referred cases, four in five, are charged, underscoring the seriousness with which domestic abuse is treated.
The CPS aims to reassure victims that support is available and their reports will be taken seriously. This comes after Reform MP Sarah Pochin faced criticism for a tweet suggesting England's success was linked to women's safety. Rose reiterated that there is never an excuse for abuse, regardless of match outcomes.
Women's Aid has launched 'The Other Kick Off' campaign to raise awareness, highlighting that abusers may return home from matches with harmful intentions. Research from Lancaster University indicates a 26% rise in domestic abuse when England wins or draws, and a 38% rise when they lose. The National Police Chiefs’ Council reported over 300 domestic abuse offenses linked to football during Euro 2024. Police and prosecutors are working collaboratively to protect those at risk and apprehend offenders.