Show domestic abuse the red card

Football doesn’t cause domestic abuse, but incidents can increase or become more severe around key matches. Research from Warwick Business School published in 2022 found that reported cases of alcohol-related domestic abuse rose by 47% on the day of an England victory at the World Cup or European Championships. 

If you have a friend, family or work colleague who is experiencing domestic abuse, please direct them to the Surrey Against Domestic Abuse helpline 01483 776822 or call the national helpline 0808 2000 247 available 24/7. In an emergency always call 999. Further information and support for people experiencing domestic abuse is available at Surrey Against Domestic Abuse.

Football tournaments often carry high levels of optimism and expectation, as a result, an England victory can have a substantial impact on fans’ alcohol consumption during nationwide celebrations after a match, increasing the likelihood of abusive behaviours. If you think your behaviour might be hurting people close to you, help is available. For support visit: Worried about your own or someone else's abusive behaviour?. The programme provides an opportunity to address and prevent further incidences of domestic abuse, through supporting perpetrators to change their behaviour and to develop respectful, non-abusive relationships.