Christelle Ntow, our Tenancy Sustainment and Safeguarding Adviser, discusses domestic abuse awareness during major sporting events and highlights the support available to residents.
The World Cup may be over and, while football didn't quite come home, England's bronze medal and third-place finish gave us plenty to celebrate. Like many major sporting events, the tournament brought people together, creating a sense of excitement, pride and community across the country.
However, there is another side to major sporting events that receives far less attention. Research shows that incidents of domestic abuse can increase during major tournaments, particularly around key matches. While football doesn't cause domestic abuse, the heightened emotions, increased alcohol consumption and disrupted routines associated with these events can exacerbate existing abusive behaviour.
As a housing association, NHG has an important role to play in safeguarding residents and raising awareness of the support available. By understanding the risks and recognising the signs, we can help ensure that those affected by domestic abuse know where to turn for help and that communities feel confident supporting one another.
What the evidence shows
Research has consistently shown a link between major sporting events and an increase in domestic abuse incidents:
- Domestic abuse incidents can increase by 26% when England play.
- Incidents can increase by up to 38% when England lose.
- Reports often remain higher on the day after a match.
- Alcohol is often a contributing factor, with some studies showing a significant increase in alcohol-related domestic abuse following matches.
Recent data from the 2026 World Cup further highlights this concern. During the tournament, 2,322 incidents were reported to police, with domestic abuse making up 17% of all reported incidents.
Analysis also found that 93% of reports occurred around England matches, demonstrating the heightened risks that can arise during major sporting events.
Many cases of domestic abuse go unreported, meaning the true scale is likely higher than official figures suggest.
Recognising the signs
Domestic abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, psychological, financial and controlling behaviour.
Some signs that someone may be experiencing abuse include:
- Appearing fearful, anxious or withdrawn
- Sudden changes in behaviour or confidence
- Unexplained injuries
- Reduced contact with friends, family or support services
- Increased isolation or reluctance to engage with others
If something does not feel right, trust your instincts and reach out for support.
Support is available
If you are experiencing domestic abuse, or are worried about someone else, you are not alone. Help and support are available.
In an emergency
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999.
If you cannot speak, call 999 and press 55 when prompted to let the operator know you need help.
National domestic abuse support services
The National Domestic Abuse Helpline provides confidential support, information and guidance for women experiencing domestic abuse, as well as for friends, family members and professionals seeking advice.
Contact details:
- Freephone: 0808 2000 247
- Available 24 hours a day
- Website: www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk
Refuge is one of the UK's largest domestic abuse organisations, providing specialist support, emergency accommodation and practical advice to help survivors rebuild their lives.
Contact details:
- Website:www.refuge.org.uk
Women's Aid is a national charity supporting women and children affected by domestic abuse. It provides information, safety planning advice and access to local support services across the UK.
Contact details
- Website: www.womensaid.org.uk
The Men's Advice Line offers confidential support and advice for men experiencing domestic abuse, helping them understand their options and access specialist services.
Contact details:
- Freephone: 0808 801 0327
- Website: www.mensadviceline.org.uk
How NHG can help?
Supporting residents affected by domestic abuse remains a key priority for NHG. We continue to work with specialist agencies to strengthen our response and ensure residents can access the right support when they need it.
As Tenancy Sustainment and Safeguarding Adviser at NHG, part of my role is helping colleagues identify and respond to safeguarding concerns. Our front-facing teams, including housing officers, are often well placed to spot the signs that someone may need support.
Domestic abuse can affect anyone and is often hidden from view. By raising awareness and sharing information about the support available, we can help ensure that those affected know where to turn for help.
This includes initiatives such as our Ring doorbell project, which helps improve residents' sense of safety and security, alongside ongoing investment in colleague training and awareness. Our customer-facing teams regularly take part in workshops and learning sessions delivered with domestic abuse support organisations, helping them recognise the signs of abuse, respond appropriately and connect residents with specialist services.
If you are experiencing domestic abuse or are concerned about someone in your household or community, we may be able to support you and help connect you with specialist services. You can find information and guidance on our domestic abuse support webpage, contact your housing officer or get in touch with our customer services team.
Sometimes one conversation can make all the difference. Reaching out for help is a positive first step, and support is available when you need it.
