Devon and Cornwall 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 Devon and Cornwall 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.
"In Devon alone there are over 600 football clubs for all ages and genders, whilst in Cornwall there are 49 different sports with affiliated clubs listed on the Active Cornwall website.
"We’re calling for better safeguarding measures to protect players, fan bases, supporters, followers, friends, and families.
"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, supporting over 11,885 children, young people, and adults across Devon and Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.