Dorset Police prepare for rise in domestic abuse during Euro 2024 tournament
Dorset Police has been working with licensed premises, support services and local authorities, to help keep the public safe
Reports of domestic abuse across Dorset increase during international football tournaments, studies have found.
Dorset Police are working with licensed premises, support services and local authorities to keep people safe during the upcoming Euro 2024 Football Tournament.
Many people in relationships with abusive partners say they “dread” major footballing competitions due to the rise in domestic abuse cases.
Molly Rennie, Chair of Dorset’s Domestic Abuse Forum, says there is ‘no excuse for domestic abuse’: “The football itself is not the cause of the abuse, nor is the victim, it’s the abuser.”
Campaigners warn that these tournaments create a period of more intense control and fear from their partners.
Reports of cases involving alcohol are 18% higher than average during a football tournament and while neither alcohol nor football excuse domestic abuse, they can exacerbate pre-existing issues.
Dorset Police are asking people to be aware of their behaviour and mood when watching the football and warn that there are consequences if they use or threaten violence.
Chief Superintendent Gavin Dudfield said: “Emotions do run high during sporting events such as the Euros. The majority of football fans are able enjoy the tournament without issue; however, a small minority of fans do commit criminal offences.”
Molly Rennie added: “Domestic abuse can be financial control, social control like whether you can leave the house or not, sexual control etc.
“Every part of your life can be controlled when you live in an abusive relationship and what people need to remember is it’s about how the perpetrator can make your life difficult.”
She tells us major sporting competitions and/or football tournaments often create heightened anxiety among survivors of domestic abuse.
“If you live in an abusive relationship, you are anxious all the time because you know it's going to happen again,” Molly said. “People often ask ‘Why don't they leave?’ but with that heightened anxiousness, you can't make those good and sensible decisions.”
The Police have developed plans with partner agencies to support victims of crime and bring offenders to justice.
CSI Dudfield said: "We are committed to supporting and protecting victims at all times, not just during sporting events. During the tournament we will have additional resources on duty to support our communities."