Wiltshire domestic abuse charity launch new campaign
'They Think It's All Over' is aiming to highlight the "hidden corners" of abuse within sport
A charity in Wiltshire that supports anyone affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence is aiming to highlight the "hidden corners" of abuse within sport.
First Light have launched a campaign titled 'They Think It's All Over', which comes off the back of a huge summer of sporting events including the Olympics.
The initiative is emphasising that the issue extends beyond the final whistle of the recent Euros tournament.
First Light are using the summer of sporting events and beyond to make the case that whilst football clubs constitute 12% of all sports clubs in the UK, the problem is not confined to football alone.
The charity says that every sport can potentially harbour links and be environments in which sexual violence and domestic abuse take place, impacting individuals of all ages and genders.
A spokesperson said: "There are approximately 151,000 sports clubs in the UK, from professional leagues to grassroots clubs.
"We’re calling for better safeguarding measures to protect players, fan bases, supporters, followers, friends, and families.
"There are over 50 different sports played in Swindon and Wiltshire, and we need to do more to shine a light on that, and spread the word about the research into the links between sexual violence and sport - and what we can do about it.
"For us, our world is about starting conversations, and making sure that we all have a role to play in being a part of that solution against sexual violence.
"No one should fear abuse when they step onto the pitch, the court, or the field and our campaign seeks to ensure that people know that sexual violence and domestic abuse is not just over now the Euro 2024 tournament is over, this is a problem that affects all areas of society and all sports. They may think it is all over, but it simply is not."
The campaign across social media and the press will share statistics and stories from a range of sports over the next twelve months to coincide with forthcoming major sporting events such as the Olympics and the start of domestic seasons for a variety of sports.
The charity will be demonstrating that abuse in and outside of sport is a widespread problem that requires urgent attention and societal change.
First Light experienced an increased demand for their services during 2022-23, and across Swindon and Wiltshire, they have revealed there were 319 new referrals to the Sexual Assault Referral Centre Service.
They're urging us to:
- Spread the Word: Share the campaign with friends, family, and local sports clubs to advocate for safe environments that stand against abuse and enable people to disclose any abuse in a safe and inclusive environment
- Support the Research: Advocate for more research into the relationship between sexual violence, domestic abuse, and sport
- Promote Safe Sport: Advocate for better safeguarding measures in your local sports clubs, from professional leagues to grassroots clubs
- Stay Informed: Follow the campaign to stay updated and learn more about the extent of the problem
You can find out more about First Light on their website.