Rise in people seeking help for domestic abuse during the World Cup

The greatest number of domestic abuse related calls during the World Cup came when England faced Sweden in their quarter final on Saturday 7th July. Of the calls we received that day 90 were related to domestic abuse, 67% more calls related to domestic abuse than the day before.

Detective Chief Inspector Dan Patrick, from the Protecting Vulnerable People Unit, said: “We are committed to preventing domestic abuse and bringing to justice those people who abuse others.”

“We have seen an increase in demand regarding domestic abuse reports and we see that as testament to the fact that victims feel more confident in reporting their situations to us.”

“We will support victims sensitively, with empathy and understanding. We also work with highly trained non-police advisers who can help with safety planning and aftercare for victims of abuse.”

“We also work with offenders to help them change their behaviour and we work closely with local organisations, charities and helplines to help them make life changes to prevent them from re-offending.”

“No one should have to suffer from domestic abuse, if you are suffering at the hands of an abusive or violent partner or know someone that is, you can call us right away on 101 or in an emergency ring 999. We will listen and we will act, we will help you. Tackling domestic abuse is a top priority for us. We want to help you, your friend or anyone affected to break the cycle and get away from violent and controlling partners. Our officers take domestic violence very seriously and will deal quickly with any incident we attend.”

“Throughout the World Cup we raised awareness of the support available locally to victims and perpetrators of domestic abuse and helped educate people on the signs of an abusive relationship. Our campaign has reached people far and wide, being seen by almost 500,000 people on social media alone, encouraging individuals to report concerns and seek help and support.”

“Our dedicated domestic abuse support page on our website saw an increase in visitors of 113% during the tournament and we would like to thank all those who have shared our messaging throughout our campaign, helping those who need support, get the help they so desperately need.”

“Of course, many of those commenting on our posts quite rightly pointed out that football in itself is not to blame, the volatile mix of excessive alcohol and high emotions contribute to these types of incident. Major sporting events like the World Cup do not themselves cause domestic abuse. However, some people drink too much alcohol which, when combined with the high emotions during and after matches, can increase the risk of unnecessary abuse”.

What we do to support victims at Humberside Police

– We have a dedicated team of experts who deal with domestic abuse. These officers know how difficult reporting can be and they will ensure that you are safe when you report incidents and throughout any police or court action that may follow.

– Our officers also work with highly trained non-police advisers who can assist with looking after you and your family during the court process and after our involvement ends.

– Domestic Violence Protection Notices – A new power granted to the police which can prohibit a domestic abuse perpetrator from making any contact with a victim for up to 28 days.

– We deal with victims without prejudice and in confidence.

We are extremely proud to have excellent working relationships with our local authority domestic abuse projects and would invite anyone wanting to know more about additional support our area to contact any of the following:

East Riding Domestic Violence Abuse Project (DVAP) on 01482 396330,

Hull Domestic Abuse Project (DAP) 01482 318759,

Blue Door for North and North East Lincolnshire 0800 1974787.

For confidential advice call the National Domestic Violence Helpline which is run in partnership between Women’s Aid and Refuge: 0808 2000 247.

To report Domestic Abuse contact the police via 101. In an emergency call 999. For help and advice please click here.