Hertfordshire Constabulary launches domestic abuse campaign as England start World Cup journey
Hertfordshire Constabulary has launched a county-wide domestic abuse campaign which will be active throughout the World Cup.
The police force is working with charities and football clubs in the area to raise awareness and support victims over the seven-week international tournament.
Extra measures are being taken by the force in response to data which shows that domestic abuse incidents and other Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) offences often increase during major football tournaments.
Launched last Thursday on the same day as the first match at the finals in America, the campaign is called ‘We Won’. National interest in the tournament will be further sparked when England’s tournament begins with a match against Croatia at 9pm UK time. The Three Lions are eyeing a long run in the USA, Mexico, and Canada, and will feature at least three times at the 2026 tournament.
In Hertfordshire, the Herts Domestic Abuse Helpline, Watford Football Club, Watford Football Club’s Community Sports and Education Trust, Stevenage Football Club, Stevenage Football Club Foundation and Watford legal firm HAB Law, are involved in the project.
Hertfordshire Constabulary revealed that it records an average of 59 domestic abuse-related reports every single day and the force has specially trained teams that offer support for those affected by domestic abuse on a 24/7 basis, 365 days of the year.
Detective Superintendent Clare Smith said: “Football can be a highly emotional game and no matter how your team do, there is no excuse for taking your feelings out on your family or partner.
“During the tournament, we are delivering a joint campaign to tackle Domestic Abuse and Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) - issues we know can rise during major football events. We will be sharing impactful social media content, including videos, graphics and podcasts, to raise awareness and support those affected.”
Residents can use the Herts Domestic Abuse Helpline on 08 088 088 088. You can also report domestic abuse to Hertfordshire Constabulary online. If you're a victim of domestic abuse, or know someone who is, and there's an emergency that's ongoing or life is in danger, call 999 now.