'Concerning' rise in domestic abuse when England play prompts Telford awareness events during World Cup
Coffee mornings and stalls are being held in Telford during the tournament
A “deeply concerning” rise in domestic abuse incidents when the England men’s football team play has prompted several awareness events to be scheduled during the World Cup.
Research from Lancaster University in 2024 showed cases of domestic abuse increased by 38 per cent when England lost a match and 26 per cen when they won or drew, with alcohol, heightened emotions and the social pressure surrounding big games creating “dangerous” conditions for those living with an abusive partner.
Throughout June and into July, Telford & Wrekin Council is leading a campaign which aims to reach residents across the borough - in shopping centres, community hubs, hospitals, bars and pubs, and online - to ensure that help and information is visible and accessible to all.
Councillor Kelly Middleton, the council’s cabinet member for public health and unlocking opportunities for all, said: “Major sporting events like the World Cup should be a time of celebration, but for many people they can bring increased fear and risk.
“The rise in domestic abuse linked to these tournaments is deeply concerning, and it’s something we cannot ignore. We want everyone across Telford and Wrekin to enjoy the football safely, while also being clear that abuse in any form is never acceptable.
“Through this campaign, we’re working with partners to raise awareness, reach those who may need support, and remind our communities that help is always available.”
The events, open for anyone to attend, are:
- Domestic abuse awareness coffee morning - June 5, 10am-1pm, Bournville House
Voices Social Enterprise (led by Tracey Secker) invites the public to a relaxed coffee morning to learn more about domestic abuse support.
- Domestic abuse awareness coffee morning, open to all communities - June 11, 12pm-2pm, Donnington Community Hub
Shropshire European Organisation (led by Kate Fejfer, in partnership with police, StaRS and Axis) is hosting a community coffee morning with a focus on Eastern European, African, Chinese and minority ethnic communities, though all are warmly welcome.
- Domestic abuse awareness stall – June 17, 9am-6pm, Telford Shopping Centre
Telford and Wrekin Domestic Abuse Service, the combined forces of Cranstoun, West Mercia Women’s Aid and Axis, will be present in Telford town centre with an information stall throughout the day.
- Domestic abuse awareness stall – June 17, 10am-4pm, Princess Royal Hospital
Representatives from the Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust (led by Teresa Tanner, in partnership with Axis, StaRS, police and Wrekin Housing Group) will be hosting an awareness stall at the Princess Royal Hospital, open to patients, visitors and staff.
If you or someone you know may be experiencing domestic abuse, visit www.telford.gov.uk/da.