It is widely known that large football tournaments are associated with an increase in reported domestic abuse. There are some explanations linked to this, including an increased intake of alcohol and heightened emotions during the matches.

Figures from Leeds Domestic Violence Service (LDVS) show that in the first week of the Euros 2024 tournament, there had already been a rise in reported domestic abuse incidents. Charities like this stress there is a ‘risk to life’ in the aftermath of the games.

A study by Lancaster University completed in 2013 found that reports of domestic abuse increased by 38% when England lost a match and by 26% when they won or drew. The Dash Charity reported a 79% rise in their helpline calls and referrals at the time of the last Euros in 2021. West Mercia Police also stated that the day after an England game, domestic violence increases by 11% and that the percentage increase depends on the result.

Charities have come together in an attempt to reduce the risk of domestic abuse during the tournament, implementing nationwide campaigns such as ‘He’s Coming Home’, ‘No More Years of Hurt’ and ‘England Till I Die’.

Of course, it is not the football which causes domestic abuse. Many people will go out and enjoy a drink whilst watching the football during the Euros season and this does not mean they will be perpetrators of domestic abuse. Police across the country have come forward to oppose the idea of making excuses for domestic abuse perpetrators. Detective Inspector Ben Ferguson stated ‘Passionate support of any sport does not justify domestic abuse’.

Women’s Aid collaborated with House 337 in 2022 on the ‘No More Years of Hurt Campaign’. This aims to highlight the increase of domestic abuse during big football games. The campaign features specially created classic football scarves. The campaign reached over 12 billion people.

If you or someone you know are fearing abuse during this time, please do not hesitate to reach out. There are a strong set of companies who can assist, including ourselves.

Ringrose Law 24 Hour helpline: 07739 748 675

Women’s Aid: https://www.womensaid.org.uk/information-support

LDASS: 01522 510041 (option 2) Lincolnshire Domestic Abuse Specialist Service (ldass.org.uk)

National Centre for Domestic Violence: 0800 970 2070 or text “NCDV” to 60777

National Domestic Abuse Help Line: 080 2000 247

Lincolnshire Police: 101 or 999 in an emergency.

Men’s Advice Line: 0808 801 0327

Broken Rainbow – LGTB Helpline- 0300 999 5428

Rape Crisis : 0808 500 222