Victims of domestic violence are being urged not to suffer in silence during this year’s World Cup, which kicks off this Thursday 12th June in Brazil. Statistics compiled show that domestic violence rises significantly during the football tournament, with an average increase of 30% during the last three world cups (2002, 2006, and 2010).
It would appear that incidents escalate due to a combination of heavy drinking and heightened emotions. During the 2010 World Cup police saw a 43 per cent increase in calls reporting domestic abuse following England’s defeat.
Previous Tournaments
In 2010, reports of domestic violence soared by 29% the day England lost 4-1 to Germany, with 353 incidents recorded across the Greater Manchester region. It was the highest number of incidents recorded in a single day in 2010 with the exception of New Year’s Day. The North West Ambulance Service also observed that numbers of assaults appeared to be up by about a third.
Detective Chief Superintendent Vanessa Jardine from GMP’s Public Protection Division, said:
“We know from our own data that there was a spike in domestic incidents during the 2010 World Cup.
“We want to make it clear to those offenders that this year’s event as with any sporting event will not be used as a way of justifying such abusive behaviour.”
The demand for support services for victims of incidents also increased during the 2010 tournament. The Greater Manchester Domestic Abuse Helpline reported a 41% increase in calls during the month of June 20120 compared to the previous month of May.
Investment in Extra Support
For this year’s World Cup, Councils across Greater Manchester are working with Greater Manchester Police, Victim Support and other agencies to ensure that demand for services relating to domestic violence can be met. The police will also utilise extra officers specifically trained in domestic abuse issues to deal with offenders and to support victims.
Bury Councillor Jane Lewis, cabinet member for communities and culture, commented:
“Domestic abuse has devastating effects on individuals and family life. It is vital that victims come forward and report the incidents and get help for themselves and their family.
“If you are experiencing violence at the hands of a partner or ex-partner or family members, there are agencies that you can contact and speak to in confidence.”
