FOLLOWING the England team's lost to Croatia two nights ago, hundreds of women are now facing a much worse prospect.
Research has shown that domestic violence increases during major sporting events – often as much as 40 per cent during football tournaments. And the more stressful the game – or in this case a devastating loss: the more violence results.
The Legal Services Commission (LSC) is today, appealing to victims of abuse to get help and to urge local papers to raise awareness that this is a real issue and that there is help out there.
The facts are stark:
One in four women experience domestic violence over their lifetimes.
Between 6 and 10% of women suffer domestic violence in a given year and every minute the Police receive a call from the public because of domestic violence.
It kills two women every week and 30 men each year.
John Binks, acting regional director for the North West at the LSC, said: “The LSC helps vulnerable people, such as victims of domestic violence, and our work is fundamental to social and legal justice. The LSC works with skilled and dedicated advice providers to enable people to get the help they need, when they need it.”
“People living with a violent partner may have tried to keep the family together often in an attempt to improve things for their children or to show others that things are okay. However, the reality of living with domestic violence can often intensify during sporting matches. Many abused women and children will be desperate for advice to help them escape from the situation.”
Each year the LSC helps around 20,000 people suffering domestic violence.
Sufferers of domestic abuse can find out more about their legal rights in the leaflet ‘Domestic Violence, Abuse and Harrassment’, published by the LSC, or by contacting their local Women’s Aid or Refuge. The leaflet covers practical things you can do if you have been abused, how to take legal steps should the need to do so arise, and what the police and your solicitor can do to help.
The leaflet, which is part of a series, can be picked up at your local Citizens Advice Bureau, advice service, library or solicitors’ office. Alternatively, you can read the leaflet online at: www.communitylegaladvice.org.uk or call 0845 345 4 345 to find out where your nearest solicitor or advice service is located.