"We're here to help" says abuse charity as World Cup kicks off
Cases of harm can rise during major football tournaments
A domestic abuse charity in Wiltshire is encouraging people to seek help during the World Cup if they're concerned about their own or someone else's behaviour.
FearFree says it's here to help anyone with worries, as major international football tournaments can see cases of harm increase.
The charity is urging people in relationships that are or have the potential to be abusive to make safety plans and to communicate where possible with partners about plans for throughout the competition.
England kick off their campaign under Thomas Tuchel on Wednesday 17th June, facing Croatia at 9pm.
Lydia Little from the charity says football is a major part of the nations identity: "There is often an enormous investment into the outcome of games, and with that, there is a level of social acceptability around drink, which, you know, at the end of the day, that reduces people's inhibitions and changes their behaviour in some cases. And all of that together creates some additional stress."
For a relationship with serious challenges already, introducing that level of excitement and expectation, there is the possibility that things go wrong.
But Lydia said it's important to note that every relationship is different, that there is no certainty that things will go badly during the competition, and that social media campaigns around domestic violence will be more prevalent during the tournament.
"Domestic abuse is an issue that's present throughout the year without a major sporting event," she said.
Advice on safety
Lydia's advice to people who might be worried about someone else's behaviour is to be aware of their surroundings, have an idea of when the fixtures are and what plans their partner might have when it comes to watching games.
With the tournament being held across the USA, Canada and Mexico, kick off times range from as early as 5pm UK time, to the early hours of the morning.
Lydia is urging anyone with concerns to speak to FearFree: "If you are concerned about your relationship, if you're concerned about your partner's behaviour or your own behaviour, give us a call. There isn't much we haven't heard."
She added that there is support available for children and young people who might be affected by abuse.
People can contact FearFree via their website or on 0300 124 0927 (9am - 5pm).
The National Domestic Abuse Helpline is 0808 2000 247 (run by Refuge)
The Men’s Advice Line, for male domestic abuse survivors is 0808 801 0327 (run by Respect)
The National LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline is 0800 999 5428 (run by Galop)
If you are in immediate danger always call 999.