"No excuse" for domestic abuse during the Euros, says West Midlands charity

A West Midlands charity has said there is "no excuse" for domestic abuse during the Euros as it prepares for calls to its helpline to rise during the tournament.

West Midlands Police have also warned that heightened emotions and increased alcohol consumption can cause existing domestic abuse to worsen.

Sara Ward, Chief Executive of Black Country Women's Aid said: "Every time there's a major international football event we do see an increase in the number of experiences of domestic abuse.

"One year we saw a 50% increase into our refuges so we actually know there is likely to be an increase in domestic abuse.

"Victims of domestic abuse - predominantly women - will be walking on eggshells every day, so this doubles or triples the concern that as a result of the football, they're waiting for when that abuse will happen."

A 2022 study by Warwick Business School found that the rate of alcohol-related domestic abuse increased by up 50% after England matches in the World Cup or Euros.

Ms Ward said: "There's no excuse for this abuse or for abuse in our day-to-day life regardless of the football season.

"It's incredibly disappointing that we can't enjoy our beautiful game and it not be without this really negative activity which has an impact on people who should be loved, cherished and cared for."

Detective Superintendent Simon Inglis, West Midlands Police force lead for domestic abuse, said: “We want everyone to be able to enjoy the football this summer and whatever the result of the matches, it’s fine to be happy or disappointed. But it’s not acceptable for you to take any frustrations you may have out on other people around you. There’s never any excuse for abuse.

“We always take robust action against anybody who commits domestic abuse offences in order that we can protect victims, so we’ll be doing all we can to ensure people enjoy the matches in a safe way throughout the tournament.”

If you’re affected by issues raised in this article, there is help available from your local domestic abuse service at www.womensaid.org.uk.

· The National Domestic Abuse Helpline is 0808 2000 247 (run by Refuge)

· The Men’s Advice Line, for male domestic abuse survivors is 0808 801 0327 (run by Respect)

· The National LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline is 0800 999 5428 (run by Galop)

If you are in immediate danger always call 999.

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