Football, Community and Safety: Why Vigilance Matters This Summer

World Cups are unique moments in time. Many of us will have core memories attached to previous competitions; the BBQs, the songs released (some better best forgotten), the…dare I say it, penalty shoot outs. They feel like global festivals. They bring moments of connection, joy and celebration. I really don’t think I have ever seen anything unite the nation like a World Cup. That is something that feels even more important in a time of such division.

Unfortunately, whilst festivities and community are what many of us associate international football with, we can’t shy away from the reality of what tournaments like the World Cup can mean for many.

Research from White Ribbon following the 2024 Euros showed that 3 out of 5 women experienced sexist abuse in person when at a football game or out watching a football match. Recent research demonstrated that more than half of respondents also said they had witnessed inappropriate behaviour from others, with the most intimidating being unwanted physical contact. Instances of online abuse and misogyny seem ever increasing.

Additionally, we know that reports of Domestic Abuse incidents increase by 38% when England lose a match. In fact, win, lose or draw, domestic abuse incidents increase when our England men’s team play football.

Whilst we enjoy making memories (hopefully of a lifetime!) this summer, this is a reminder to stay vigilant throughout this period. Football itself is not to blame for domestic abuse or instances of violence against women and girls, but we must acknowledge the demonstrable increase in instances of both during sporting events of this nature.

Everyone deserves to enjoy sport in spaces that are safe, be that out and about in the community, or at home. We can all help to lead change through positive allyship and applying the principle of ‘speaking up safely.’  Simple acts can be powerful; support one another to get home safely following socialising, don’t laugh along with harmful or abusive behaviour, and check in with those around you.  It can be as much about recognising the subtle signs as well as the overt indicators that someone might be experiencing abuse. It is about creating spaces where people feel safe to disclose, and where they are met with compassion, not judgement.

We must ensure that those experiencing harm know they are not alone, and that support is available. This World Cup, alongside the fun, let’s take a moment to check in with those around us: colleagues, service users, friends. A simple conversation, a moment of curiosity, or a reminder of available support can make a significant difference. There are a number of campaigns geared towards combatting the prevalence of domestic abuse and violence against women and girls this summer. I would urge you to take some time to familiarise yourselves with some of the tips and support these campaigns are promoting, as well as some of the places we can signpost people to for support.

Let’s spend this World Cup staying safe, having fun and looking out for one another.

Come on England!

Always contact the emergency services if you think someone is in immediate danger. Enquiries about domestic abuse must always be made safely. Raising concerns at the wrong time, or without privacy, can increase risk. Always ensure conversations take place in a safe, confidential setting and are guided by safeguarding procedures.

Support links

Support is a team sport

World Cup Match Day Toolkit | White Ribbon UK — White Ribbon UK

Homepage - National Domestic Abuse Helpline

Rape Crisis England and Wales: For anyone aged 16+ affected by rape, sexual assault, sexual abuse or sexual harassment. The 24/7 support line is free and confidential (0808 500 2222).

Respect: For men concerned about issues surrounding domestic abuse, please call the Respect helpline (0808 802 4040).