With England’s first World Cup game on Saturday, Associate Solicitor Kerry Russell in Gorvins family team today welcomed a Home Office campaign to prevent the number of domestic abuse incidents during the 2014 event.
Research has shown that there is a rise in the risk of domestic abuse during major football tournaments with the high emotion involved, increased drinking and warm weather.
Announcing the new campaign, Home Secretary Theresa May said:
“I am determined to see a society where violence against women and girls is not tolerated, where people speak out, and where no one has to suffer this form of abuse.”
Kerry (pictured left) said:
“For victims it is important to be aware that the first step to protection is for them to contact the police.
“Victims can also apply to the Family Court for injunction orders against perpetrators, forbidding them from molesting, intimidating and harassing them, as well as orders to require the perpetrator to stay away from the family home.”
Chief Superintendent of Greater Manchester Police (GMP), Vanessa Jardine, commented: “When England got knocked out four years ago we had 350 999 calls – a 40% increase on the previous tournament – many regarding domestic violence.”
The GMP recently released recordings of several 999 calls reporting domestic violence, including one made by a terrified child.
The Home Office is using the Sky Sports website and posters in male toilets across pubs in England to remind potential perpetrators of the impact of domestic abuse, directing men to the charity Respect for advice on how to change abusive behaviour.