Devon & Cornwall Police will be raising awareness around the link between sporting events and an increase in domestic abuse during this summer’s FIFA World Cup.
Emotions can run high during the tournament, particularly on days when England and Scotland are playing.
Heightened emotions, frustration and competitiveness can lead tempers to flare and inexcusable violence and abuse. While police are keen for fans to enjoy the football, they urge people to watch out for each other and report any abusive behaviour they witness or experience themselves.
In addition to their own messaging during the tournament, Devon & Cornwall Police is partnering with First Light and other support agencies across the Devon and Cornwall area to #BlowTheWhistle on abuse.
The campaign messages are that abuse will not be ignored, no one is left to face it alone and support is always available. When something isn’t right, in relationships, at home, at work or in our communities people are encouraged to: STOP, NOTICE, ACT, DON’T LOOK AWAY.
Det Supt Nicky Seager, Vulnerability Lead for Devon & Cornwall Police said: “The World Cup is a time when communities come together to enjoy football and support their teams, but we also recognise that heightened emotions during major tournaments can sometimes lead to an increase in violent outbursts and domestic abuse. At Devon & Cornwall Police, we want everyone to enjoy the tournament safely and responsibly.
“We are encouraging people to look out for one another and to speak up if they witness or experience abusive behaviour. Abuse is never acceptable, and no one should feel they have to face it alone. That’s why we are proud to be working with First Light and other partner agencies across Devon and Cornwall to Blow the Whistle on abuse.
“Our message is simple: if something doesn’t feel right, stop, notice, act and don’t look away. Support is always available, and by working together we can help keep our communities safe.”
Lyn Gooding of First Light added, “Blow the Whistle is about making it clear that abuse is never acceptable, and that we all have a role to play in challenging it. You don’t need to be an expert to take action, you just need to notice when something isn’t right and feel confident to speak up or offer support.
“We cannot do this alone. Real change happens when individuals, communities and organisations stand together. By ‘blowing the whistle’, we send a powerful message that abuse will not be ignored, and that help is always available.”
Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly said:
“It is extremely concerning to hear incidents of domestic abuse increase during the World Cup. I say to all would-be perpetrators, I am not interested in whether your team wins or loses, what matters is that your family does not lose.
“It is important that the police are proactive in arresting and detaining any violent offenders, and I would urge victims to report any incidents to the police, or someone they can confide in.
“My office provides victims with free help and support which is accessible through the OPCC Victim Care website.
“Combating domestic abuse remains one of my key priorities which includes a focus on education, prevention, rehabilitation and investing resources into disrupting violence against women and girls.”
For information about help and support, or to report visit: Advice about domestic abuse | Devon & Cornwall Police
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