This article explores the relationship between football tournaments, such as the Euros, and increased domestic abuse, highlighting campaign efforts, statistics, and support resources for those affected. As football fever sweeps the globe, the Euros should be an opportunity to come together with friends and loved ones to support your national team. However, for the 2.1 million people in the UK experiencing domestic abuse, tournaments like the Euros can represent a time of heightened fear and isolation.

Women's Aid Campaign: No More Years of Hurt

No More Years of Hurt is the latest instalment of Women's Aid's award-winning campaign ‘He’s Coming Home’. The campaign coincides with the Euros 2024 tournament and aims to raise awareness of the spike in domestic abuse associated with major championships. With violence against women and girls (VAWG) at record levels and funding for women’s services at an all-time low, this campaign seeks to move the epidemic of domestic abuse further up the political agenda.

The Link Between Football & Domestic Abuse

While football does not cause domestic abuse, where it is already present, major tournaments can exacerbate existing patterns of control. Research from Lancaster University reveals that reported incidents of domestic abuse rise by 38% when England loses a match and by 26% when the team wins or draws.

This trend is mirrored in child welfare data. Data from the NSPCC indicates a 33% rise in helpline calls regarding domestic abuse during big games, and a 17% increase in children requiring counselling for domestic abuse related to these periods.

[Image of a graph showing the spike in domestic abuse reports during major tournament dates]

Domestic Abuse and Ethnicity: The Statistics

To understand the full scope of domestic abuse in the UK, it is necessary to examine how it affects different demographic groups. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS) for the year ending March 2023, prevalence rates vary significantly by ethnic background:

• Mixed Ethnic Groups: Women from Mixed backgrounds reported the highest prevalence of domestic abuse at 11.5%.
• Black/Black British: Approximately 7.3% of Black women experienced domestic abuse.
• White: Approximately 7.2% of White women experienced domestic abuse.
• Asian/Asian British: Prevalence was reported at 3.4%.

It is important to note that these figures often reflect reporting rates. Research from organisations such as Imkaan suggests that Black and minoritised women often face additional systemic barriers to seeking help, including fear of over-policing or under-protection, meaning the actual prevalence may be higher than recorded statistics suggest.

What Causes Domestic Abuse?

Domestic abuse is caused by the perpetrator’s need to gain and maintain power and control over a partner. While outside factors like football or alcohol consumption can act as triggers, they are not the root cause. The Power and Control Wheel (pictured below) provides a framework for understanding these dynamics.

*The diagram assumes she/her pronouns for survivors and he/him pronouns for perpetrators; however, abusive behaviour occurs across all genders and sexualities. Responsibility always lies with the perpetrator for their choice to act abusively.

Support Resources and Helplines

In an emergency, always dial 999. If you are unable to speak, press 55 when prompted to alert the operator that you require police assistance.

General Helplines

• National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247
• Samaritans (24/7): 116 123
• Childline: 0800 1111
• Live Fear Free (Wales - English/Welsh): 0808 8010 800

Specialised Support Services

Black, Asian, and Minoritised Groups

• Sistah Space: Specialist support for African heritage women and girls.
• Southall Black Sisters: Resource centre for Asian and Black women.
• Jewish Women’s Aid: Support for Jewish women and children.
• Muslim Women’s Network: Faith and culturally sensitive support.
• Latin American Women’s Aid: Holistic support and refuge for Latin American women.

LGBTQIA+

• Galop: National LGBT+ domestic abuse helpline: 0800 999 5428.
• TransUnite: Directory for transgender support groups across the UK.