He’s Coming Home: Women’s Aid campaign highlights increase in domestic violence at major sporting events

While most of us hope that football will come home, there are many women who fear that their partner will do the same.

Today, as England approach their second World Cup match, Women’s Aid is launching a shocking new campaign to draw attention to the increasing prevalence and severity of existing domestic violence at major football tournaments.

Taking place in winter for the first time, the cold weather and dark evenings mean that more fans than usual stay home to watch the World Cup.

This is a time of fear for many women as existing incidents of domestic violence are known to increase by up to 38%.

The same study found that even when the England national team played and won or drew, domestic violence incidents still increased by 26% compared to days when there was no football match.

So Women’s Aid teamed up with artist Corbin Shaw to raise awareness for the cause and designed a series of St George’s Cross flags with alternative football slogans such as “He’s Coming Home”.

Supported by Women’s Aid patrons such as Spice Girl Melanie B and Dame Julie Walters, the launch coincides with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

The campaign aims to reassure women that they are not alone and raising awareness ultimately helps the charity save lives.

There is also a spillover effect as domestic violence is still up 11% the day after a match in England.

It is clear that while football does not cause abuse, it can cause an increase in existing abuse.

Farah Nazeer, Managing Director of Women’s Aid said: “Everyone has a part to play in helping to end domestic violence and raising awareness of the support available during major tournaments such as the upcoming World Cup could help many women who living with abusive partners.

“While domestic violence is not caused by football, we know that existing abuse can become more serious or become more prevalent at major tournaments.

“We ask everyone to share this important campaign at a time when many women need to know how to get support.”

The flags will be displayed in 16 locations across the country in the coming weeks before the flags themselves are auctioned to raise even more money for charity.

A police officer quoted in the report on domestic violence said: “The World Cup seems like cause for celebration to many, but joy and anticipation can turn to despair and conflict when a ball kicks.

“Although it is difficult to say that the tournament is a causal factor, the prestigious tournament concentrates the risk factors in a short and fleeting period, reinforcing the concepts of masculinity, rivalry and aggression.”

If you are dealing with domestic violence, Frauenhilfe can provide help and support.