Domestic Abuse and the World Cup: Why Safeguarding Professionals Must Not Ignore the Warning Signs
As the FIFA World Cup captures the attention of millions across the country, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has issued a stark reminder that major sporting tournaments can coincide with a rise in domestic abuse incidents.
In a recent statement, prosecutors urged victims to seek support and come forward during the tournament, highlighting evidence that domestic abuse incidents increase significantly around major football events. Research cited by the CPS found that domestic abuse incidents increase by 26% when England plays and by 38% when England loses. The National Police Chiefs' Council also reported more than 300 domestic abuse offences linked to football-related behaviour during the Euro 2024 tournament.
The CPS is clear on one important point. Football does not cause domestic abuse. Domestic abuse is caused by perpetrators who choose to abuse, control, intimidate, manipulate, or harm others. However, factors associated with major sporting events, including increased alcohol consumption, heightened emotions, financial pressures, gambling losses, and prolonged periods spent at home, can exacerbate existing abusive behaviour and increase risk for victims.
For safeguarding professionals, this warning should not be overlooked.
Domestic Abuse Is More Than Physical Violence
One of the most important messages within the CPS announcement is that domestic abuse is not always physical.
Domestic abuse can include:
Coercive and controlling behaviour
Emotional abuse
Psychological abuse
Financial abuse
Threats and intimidation
Stalking and harassment
Technology-facilitated abuse
Physical and sexual violence
Many victims experience multiple forms of abuse simultaneously, often over prolonged periods. The impact can be devastating, affecting every aspect of a person's life, including their physical health, mental wellbeing, employment, finances, relationships, and ability to seek help.
The Hidden Impact on Children
Whilst domestic abuse is often discussed in relation to adult victims, children are frequently the unseen victims within these situations.
Children do not need to witness physical violence directly to be harmed.
Hearing arguments, witnessing coercive control, sensing fear within the home, seeing injuries, or living in an environment of unpredictability can have a profound impact on a child's emotional wellbeing and development.
Children living with domestic abuse may experience:
Anxiety and emotional distress
Sleep difficulties
Changes in behaviour
Difficulties at school
Mental health challenges
Increased vulnerability to exploitation
Difficulties forming healthy relationships later in life
For some children, major sporting tournaments can become associated not with celebration, but with fear and uncertainty.
This is why domestic abuse must always be viewed through a safeguarding lens, recognising both adult victims and the wider impact on children and families.
Why This Matters for Professionals
The CPS has called on communities to look out for friends, family members, neighbours, and colleagues who may be particularly at risk during the tournament.
This message extends to safeguarding professionals.
Whether you work in education, healthcare, housing, social care, sport, charities, early years, or the workplace, this is a timely reminder to remain professionally curious.
Consider:
Are there individuals whose behaviour or presentation has recently changed?
Have concerns about relationships or family circumstances previously been raised?
Are children presenting as anxious, withdrawn, or distressed?
Are there opportunities to remind people about available support services?
Are staff equipped to recognise signs of coercive control and emotional abuse?
Periods of heightened risk require heightened awareness.
Our Perspective
At RLB, we often talk about safeguarding being everybody's responsibility.
Announcements such as this from the CPS are important because they remind us that safeguarding risks do not occur in isolation. They are influenced by wider societal events, community pressures, and environmental factors.
The World Cup will rightly bring excitement and enjoyment to millions of people.
However, for some adults and children, it may also represent a period of increased fear, control, and abuse.
As safeguarding professionals, leaders, and organisations, we should use this opportunity to raise awareness, strengthen professional curiosity, and ensure people know where support is available.
The most effective safeguarding organisations are not only reactive when harm occurs.
They recognise patterns, understand emerging risks, and take action before concerns escalate.
Looking Ahead
The CPS has reinforced its commitment to prosecuting domestic abuse offences and supporting victims throughout the criminal justice process. Recent data shows that where police refer domestic abuse flagged cases and the CPS makes a charging decision, four out of five cases result in charges being authorised.
Whilst accountability is vital, prevention remains equally important.
For safeguarding professionals, the message is clear:
Remain vigilant.
Stay professionally curious.
Look beyond the football.
Because behind the headlines and celebrations, there may be adults and children who need support more than ever.
Support and Resources
Anyone experiencing domestic abuse who is in immediate danger should always call 999.
Victims can also report abuse to the police on 101.
Coming forward to report domestic abuse can be hard to do. Confidential support services are available. For additional support, anyone affected by domestic abuse can contact the National Domestic Abuse Helpline 0808 2000 247 (England) or the Live Fear Free helpline on 0808 80 10 800 (Wales).
NHS- Domestic violence and abuse
Women’s Aid- How to Cover your tracks
Women’s Aid- I want to leave my relationship safely
Help after rape and sexual assault