Residents urged to keep an eye out for domestic abuse during major football matches

Safe & Sound, Dudley’s Community Safety Partnership, is urging residents to be aware that incidents of domestic abuse can rise around major football matches – and to look out for the signs and know where to get help.

Research from the Crown Prosecution Service highlights a concerning link between football results and domestic abuse, finding incidents increase by 38% when England lose and 26% even when they win. Locally, partners are reminding people that abuse is never acceptable – whatever the score.

Domestic abuse affects both women and men. The latest Crime Survey for England and Wales (year ending March 2025) estimates 2.2 million women and 1.5 million men experienced domestic abuse in the past year – showing it can happen to anyone.

As the excitement of major tournaments builds, Safe & Sound is asking friends, family members and colleagues to remain alert and to check in on those they care about.

Abuse can affect anyone – women and men – and there is no excuse for it. Domestic abuse is not always physical and can include emotional, financial or controlling behaviour. If you are worried about yourself or someone you know, help is available, whether someone is ready to leave a relationship or not.

For support and advice call Dudley Borough Single Point Of Contact (SPOC) on 01384 455411. Practical support includes safety planning and guidance to help victims and their children stay safe.

Find out more, including more sources of support and how to spot the signs of domestic abuse, at www.dudleysafeandsound.org/domesticabuse