Red Card to Domestic Violence during Euro 2016

Staff from SAFE Place Merseyside’s, the region’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre are holding up the red card to domestic violence and abuse during the upcoming Euro 2016 football tournament.

SAFE Place Merseyside is delivered in partnership between Merseyside Police and Liverpool Community Health NHS Trust, and provides free and confidential support to anyone in Merseyside affected by sexual violence or assault – 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

National research has shown that cases of domestic violence and abuse increased by up to 1/3 in some areas of the UK during other recent major football tournaments, such as the FIFA World Cup and UEFA’s Euro 2012.

The Safe Place team are therefore encouraging people to keep themselves and others safe by looking out for anyone they know who may be vulnerable to domestic violence or abuse.

Shelly Stoops, Service Manager for SAFE Place Merseyside said:

“There’s a number of factors that come together during a major football tournament; many people are drinking, and we know that alchol is closely linked to an increase in cases of sexual violence or assault we see coming through our centre.

“But there’s also the emotional stress of the game itself, and whilst we know that most people will enjoy a few drinks whilst watching the games and will never become violent, regardless of whether England win or lose, for a small minority of people this can become a toxic combination, and they can become very aggressive or violent in behaviour.”

She added “It’s really important that people know how to stay safe whether they’re out enjoying themselves or at home watching the matches, but it’s also important that people know where to go for help should they need it.”

“Our message is that sexual violence and assault is never okay, and no one should ever have to live in fear or suffer in silence. If you have ever experienced these issues, either recently or at any time in the past, our service can offer a wide range of support, advice and counselling – whether you choose to report it to the police or not, and if you are male or female.”