Domestic abuse victims in Essex urged to reach out during World Cup
World Cup tensions could lead to a rise in domestic abuse cases
Last updated 28th Nov 2022
Domestic abuse charity Next Chapter are urging people across Essex to reach out for support if they feel they have become a victim of domestic violence.
According to a Unison report, many people in relationships with abusive partners dread major footballing competitions like the World Cup. This is because they are linked to an increase in incidents of domestic abuse.
CEO of Next Chapter, Beverley Jones told us they want to help victims where they can during the global tournament: "Unfortunately for probably what is a small percentage of people who support football, what happens when they watch it - either through the elation of winning or the depression of England losing - is that it comes out in aggression and violence.
"What will come with watching football and supporting England and the increase of alcohol and tension may well bring a rise in the violence in their household."
Beverley wants people to know that Next Chapter are here to help: "My advice to anybody who thinks they are in a relationship where they are a victim domestic abuse is that they really need to seek help from somebody.
"Our organisation has a whole heap of wonderful people who work for us who are able to just listen, give non-judgemental advice and understand that person's situation.
"We're really here to help them understand what their options are, how they can do it safely - and how we can support by advocating and if they need to flee, if they need a refuge space if they need to be somewhere else.
"What they need to know is, we will absolutely believe them, and that it will absolutely only be what they want to do."
To get support or to find out more about Next Chapter services, you can visit www.thenextchapter.org.uk.