People and communities
When the Three Lions play, he strikes!
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Walsall Council kicks off domestic abuse campaign during 2026 World Cup
Walsall Council, in collaboration with the Safer Walsall Partnership (SWP), is kicking off the 2026 World Cup by blowing the whistle on domestic abuse and violence.
The campaign highlights the national documented rise in reports of domestic abuse during major sporting events and aims to ensure that victims and survivors know where to access urgent help, refuge and support.
Evidence shows that during high-profile matches, when more people are socialising at home and alcohol consumption may increase, incidents of domestic abuse can escalate. While alcohol does not cause domestic abuse, it can intensify harmful behaviours where control and abuse already exist.
“ The goal of this campaign is to send a clear message, that domestic abuse has no place in Walsall.
“Major sporting events should be a time of celebration, not fear. We’re encouraging residents to look out for one another and want them to know that help is available.
“Walsall is a proudly diverse borough, and this campaign is about ensuring everyone, regardless of background, feels safe in their own home throughout the tournament and beyond. “
“ We know that major sporting events can coincide with an increase in domestic abuse when people are coming together to support their nation’s football team, and even more so, when alcohol consumption is higher.
“Let me be clear, alcohol and football do not cause abuse. Domestic abuse is about power and control, and there is never any excuse for it.
“Our officers will be actively monitoring and responding to incidents throughout the tournament. We would urge anyone experiencing abuse, or concerned about someone else, to come forward and seek help. “
With matches taking place late into the evening, and in the early hours of the morning, due to time differences, more people may be watching from home, heightening the risk of incidents escalating behind closed doors.
National research undertaken by Lancaster University, published in 2014, found the risk of domestic abuse rose by 26 per cent when England won or drew, and by 38 per cent when the Three Lions lost.
Further studies estimated 1.6 million women report feeling unsafe during World Cup tournaments, with violence against women and girls (VAWG) rising by an average of 30 per cent during major competitions.
Walsall Council, West Midlands Police and other partner agencies are working together to ensure support services are visible, accessible and ready to respond.
If you or someone you know is affected by domestic abuse, help is available:
ENDS
Research by Lancaster University – research.lancaster-university.uk/en/publications/can-the-fifa-world-cup-football-soccer-tournament-be-associated-w
Notes to Editors:
The Safer Walsall Partnership (SWP) brings together a range of agency partners to reduce crime and the fear of crime across the borough. The partnership includes:
- Walsall Council
- West Midlands Police
- West Midlands Fire Service
- Local NHS organisations
- the Probation service
- and whg (Walsall Housing Group).
To find out more about work in Walsall tackling domestic abuse, visit Walsall Council's dedicated webpages.
