As England wakes up to another world cup win, eagerly planning, awaiting the next fixture against Norway, thousands of women living with an abuser, whilst hoping that the world cup run will end sooner rather than later, know only too well that the flip side of the coin to celebrations is very different for them including fear, violence and injury.
As the football progresses to the later stages, tensions, frustration, anger and excitement become even more prevalent and there is often a significant increase in reported cases of domestic abuse.
Suzanne Oldnall (BEM) Head of the domestic abuse drop in centre says, “Any football tournament, in particular the World Cup or the Euros” increases the risk of abuse to any victim living within a domestic abuse relationship. There is specialist support and help in Worcestershire, West Mercia Women’s Aid in partnership with Refuge will be manning their usual 24 hour helpline on 0800 980 3331 to help and advise anyone suffering from Domestic Abuse. QualitySolicitors Parkinson Wright have a domestic abuse drop in Centre which is open daily for legal help during normal office hours Monday – Friday 9:30am - 4:00pm or you can telephone 01905 721600 to speak to an Suzanne Oldnall or a member of her team.
You do not need to make an appointment.
In an emergency always dial 999 and ask for the Police.