Police prepare for World Cup domestic abuse rise

Police forces across the country are preparing for a rise in the number of cases of domestic abuse reported during the forthcoming football World Cup.

Research carried out during the 2006 tournament shows that cases of domestic abuse increase by nearly 30 per cent on England match days.

In the City of London, specialist officers experienced in dealing with domestic abuse will be on duty during all England matches.

Gwent Police’s Deputy Chief Constable Carmel Napier, the UK’s lead police officer on domestic abuse, is urging victims who are worried about attacks to contact the police as soon as possible.
 
“There is no excuse for domestic violence and perpetrators must be clear that the World Cup does not give them any justification for partaking in abusive behaviour.

“Our advice to victims would be that if you are worried that you will be more at risk during the World Cup don’t wait - contact the police or any of the victim support services that will help you. Our partner agencies will also be ensuring that there is adequate call handling and victim support.”

Find details and assistance in identifying and reporting domestic violence and also the support available on the City of London Corporations website - Domesic Violence (opens in new window). This guidance is also helpful for employers who may have concerns for their staff.

You can call City of London Police on 020 7601 2222. If you require an emergency police response please call 999 and we will aim to be with you within 12 minutes.