17/06/2026
Police warning people to 'speak up' as we prepare for the World Cup 🚨
The World Cup is filled with excitement as fans from across the globe watch their teams and hope that they make it through to the next round.
There's chants, watch parties and having fun with your mates in the pub. But for some, there's a darker side of the football tournament.
While most fans are praying their team win, there are others who are absolutely terrified that their partner or relative's team will lose.
This is because domestic violence rises during sporting events. Police - along with hospital staff - have long recognised the intrinsic link between major sporting events and domestic abuse, which has been backed up by academic as well as anecdotal evidence.
Research by Lancaster University criminologist Dr Stuart Kirby, a former police officer, saw him monitor police reports of domestic violence during the World Cups of 2002, 2006 and 2010.
He found that in one force area violent incidents increased by 38 percent when England lost – but also rose by 26 percent when they won. While domestic violence rose after each England game, incidents also increased in frequency at each new tournament.
Now, Devon and Cornwall Police has launched a campaign to raise awareness around the proven link between major sports events and domestic abuse.
Heightened emotions, frustration and competitiveness can lead tempers to flare and inexcusable violence and abuse. While police are keen for fans to enjoy the football, they urge people to watch out for each other and report any abusive behaviour they witness or experience themselves.
In addition to their own messaging during the tournament, Devon and Cornwall Police is partnering with South West charity First Light and other support agencies across the Devon and Cornwall area to on abuse.
The campaign messages are that abuse will not be ignored, no one is left to face it alone and support is always available. When something isn’t right, in relationships, at home, at work or in our communities people are encouraged to: STOP, NOTICE, ACT, DON’T LOOK AWAY.
Det Supt Nicky Seager, Vulnerability Lead for Devon & Cornwall Police said: "The World Cup is a time when communities come together to enjoy football and support their teams, but we also recognise that heightened emotions during major tournaments can sometimes lead to an increase in violent outbursts and domestic abuse.
"At Devon and Cornwall Police, we want everyone to enjoy the tournament safely and responsibly.
"We are encouraging people to look out for one another and to speak up if they witness or experience abusive behaviour. Abuse is never acceptable, and no one should feel they have to face it alone. That’s why we are proud to be working with First Light and other partner agencies across Devon and Cornwall to Blow the Whistle on abuse.
"Our message is simple: if something doesn’t feel right, stop, notice, act and don’t look away. Support is always available, and by working together we can help keep our communities safe.”
