North East domestic abuse charity expects rise in calls during Euros

The tournament starts later this week

Author: Karen LiuPublished 10th Jun 2024

We are hearing from a North East domestic abuse charity who are expecting a rising number of calls during the Euros.

The tournament starts later this week, but Women's Aid in Newcastle say they are there to help victims in any way possible.

Elaine Langshaw, Chief Executive, said: "We do see domestic abuse incidents escalate or increase during football tournaments and other sporting events. There is a spike. Nationally that spike is noticed more, but I think it affects local areas as well.

"Domestic violence and abuse does not happen because of football alone, it's not football that makes it happen. I think that when big sporting events are on, there are associated trigger factors that may increase escalation.

"Those triggering factors can often be for example, increase in alcohol consumption and people's moods because of loses and wins.

"Anybody who is worried about their own safety or their partner's behavior, there are things that you can do and people you can talk to. Talk to your family, your friends, get advice and contact your local service to get that support."

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