World Cup warning – don’t suffer violence in silence

Victims of domestic violence are being urged not to suffer in silence during this year’s World Cup, which kicks off on 12 June in Brazil.

Figures show that domestic violence rises significantly during football’s greatest tournament – by 30% during the last three world cups (2002, 2006, and 2010).

Regardless of whether England win or lose, incidents escalate due to a combination of heavy drinking and heightened emotions.

In 2010, reports of domestic violence soared by 29% the day England lost 4-1 to Germany, with 353 incidents recorded across Greater Manchester. It was the highest number of incidents recorded in a single day in 2010, apart from New Year's Day.

In 2006, however, Home Office research found a 31% rise on the day England played Paraguay, and won 1-0.

The demand for support services for victims also increased during the 2010 World Cup. The Greater Manchester Domestic Abuse Helpline reported a 41% increase in calls during the month of June compared to the previous month of May.

In this year’s World Cup, Bury Council is working with Greater Manchester Police, Victim Support and other agencies to ensure that demand for services can be met. The police will also deploy extra staff trained in domestic abuse issues to deal with offenders and to supporting victims.

Councillor Jane Lewis, cabinet member for communities and culture, said: “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.”

Chief Inspector Nicky Porter at Bury Police station said: “Domestic violence and abuse is a priority within Greater Manchester Police and Bury division will strive to safeguard all victims of domestic violence and abuse and take action against all perpetrators.”

For help and advice for you or someone you know:

 * Call Greater Manchester Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0161 636 7525 (Mon-Fri, 10am-4pm)

• 24-hour National Domestic Violence: Freephone 0808 2000 247
• Men’s Helpline: 0808 801 0327 (Mon- Fri, 9am-5pm).
  

If you are a perpetrator and want support in addressing your violent behaviour towards your partner ex/partner, call the Respect helpline (Freephone 0808 802 4040), openMon-Fri, 9am-5pm, or email  info@respectphoneline.org.uk

ENDS

Press release issued: 6 June 2014.

Notes to editors:
 

• Home Office statistics show the number of cases of domestic abuse rise by almost 30 per cent on England match days
• A victim can suffer from 35 attacks before the abuse is reported to the police
• In the UK on average 2 women per week are killed by a current or former male partner
• Domestic abuse accounts for 15 per cent of all violent incidents
• 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men will be a victim of domestic abuse in their lifetime with women at greater risk of repeat victimisation and serious injury
• 89 per cent of those suffering 4 or more incidents are women

One incident of domestic violence is reported to the police every minute