Domestic Abuse and the Beautiful Game - UEFA Euro 2024
Written by Gemma Stevens | Family Team | 02 July 2024
We all know that Euro 2024 is well underway and there has already been excitement (and upset) along the way for all the nations, not least England.
Sadly, the harsh reality is the beautiful game does not always mean excitement for all, particularly those in a high risk or abusive relationship.
The National Centre for Domestic Violence (NCDV) has reported that these matches can see a surge in domestic abuse incidents particularly when our national team plays and worst still, when the national team loses.
Research conducted by the National Centre for Domestic Violence found that cases of domestic abuse rose by 38% when the national men’s team lost and increased by 26% cent regardless of a win or draw. [Source: shoutoutuk.org, June 2024]
The culture of long periods of heavy drinking in the run up, during and after these games and the ups and downs of unexpected wins or disappointing losses results in heightened tensions. Amongst abusers and their victims, this can lead to increased risk of harm. Other factors include drug misuse and heightened emotions – inexcusably, the effects of alcohol and drugs change how a person thinks and reacts while making them care less about the consequences of their actions.
There are different forms of abuse and it’s important to recognise that it manifests differently. This includes:
Physical abuse is the act of violence that causes physical harm
Emotional abuse includes verbal assaults, threats, and manipulative tactics that damage a person's self-esteem
Psychological abuse uses intimidation, isolation, and control to instill fear and dependency
Financial abuse restricts access to money, which undermines a person's autonomy
Sexual abuse involves any form of non-consensual sexual activity or coercion
Those in potentially abusive or frightening relationships or home environments should consider the steps they can take to best protect themselves.
Victims should contact the police on 999 for urgent police assistance or should escape to a safe place to seek support where it is possible for them to do so.
There is additional help available:
Women can call The Freephone National Domestic Abuse Helpline, which is run by Refuge, on 0808 2000 247 for free at any time, day or night where they will be offered information and support
Men can call Men's Advice Line on 0808 8010 327 (Monday to Friday, 10am to 5pm), or visit the webchat at Men's Advice Line (Wednesday, 10am to 11.30am and Thursday, 2pm to 4pm) for information and support
If you identify as LGBT+, you can speak to Galop by calling 0800 999 5428
Women’s Aid have created The Survivor’s Handbook, which offers practical advice, guidance and support for women experiencing domestic abuse.
If you have concerns that you are abusive, you can contact the free Respect helpline via 0808 802 4040 (Monday to Friday, 10am to 5pm).
Gemma Stevens, Associate Solicitor in our Family team, has created a video series of FAQs relating to domestic abuse, various court orders and the forms of support available. You can watch the videos here.
Legal advice is essential to learn your options for longer term protection. Our Family team have experience supporting victims of domestic abuse; you can discuss your circumstances with them directly by calling 01752 827030 or emailing family@nash.co.uk.
