Every time England step onto the pitch in a World Cup, the country gears up for ninety minutes of hope, tension and national pride. But away from the stadiums and fan zones, another pattern plays out, one that’s far less celebrated and far more predictable.
Domestic violence rises when England play. It rises when they win, when they lose, and even when they draw. The data is consistent across multiple tournaments and multiple police forces. Abuse increases by more than a third when England lose. It still rises by over a quarter when they win. Alcohol‑related abuse jumps sharply. The day after a match, the risk remains elevated. Some forces report their busiest domestic abuse days of the entire year during England fixtures. NHS services see more injuries linked to domestic abuse during tournaments. None of this is new, and none of it is accidental.
Football doesn’t cause abuse. Abusers cause abuse. But the World Cup amplifies the risk. Heightened emotions, alcohol, gambling stress and late‑night fixtures all combine to create a pressure point that victims feel long after the final whistle.
For those of us working in healthcare, safeguarding, policing, education or community support, this is a warning. A reminder that preparation matters.
If you or someone you know is affected, support is available. The National Domestic Abuse Helpline is open 24/7 on 0808 2000 247. Men can contact the Men’s Advice Line on 0808 8010 327 or the ManKind Initiative on 01823 334244. LGBTQ+ victims can reach Galop on 0800 999 5428. Childline is available for young people on 0800 1111.
The World Cup is a celebration for many. For others, it’s a danger period.
#domesticviolence
#football #england
Congrats to Class 1/2005 who started their careers in DFB this week in 2005, marking their 20 year anniversary. Also thinking of those who have moved on & those, sadly, that left before their time including our friend Ian "Frodo" McCormack.
Generally considered one of the stand out classes of the early noughties, 37 firefighter/paramedics passed out.
Amazing piece of work by @DrSimonCraig & colleagues
A caregiver's concern their child is getting worse is an independent risk factor for ICU admission
A number of really important take-aways from this study so it isn't mis-interpreted.
Thread 1/n 🧵
https://t.co/YTBIIHQWZb
@PhilipHackett7@Crickie2 HEMS is governed by EASA, there are no Irish HEMS regulations. The IAA's role is to ensure all operators comply with EASA HEMS regs. It's different for SAR.
The delayed activation of support hubs and the slow arrival of assistance, days after storm Eowyn, is wholly unacceptable. Many older adults, those with disabilities & family carers, lack the financial resources to cover the costs of hot meals & water, temporary accommodation, or alternative care that others can & continue to suffer.
Tragically, many older people report experiencing sickness and infection due to the lack of adequate support. The absence of proactive outreach and support from government agencies is deeply concerning.
There must be accountability and a commitment to ensuring a 'competent' team is in place to effectively respond to future emergencies. The continued lack of political will to prioritize the needs of vulnerable citizens during this crisis is deeply troubling & no end in sight.
#HumanRightsDoNotGrowOld #AbandonedPeople #StormÉowyn
@MichealMartinTD@SimonHarrisTD@MaryLouMcDonald@paulmurphy_TD@Toibin1@ivanabacik@OCallaghanCian
I don’t know about you, but I’m voting for change on Friday.
I’m sick of how this country has been run.
Huge wealth has been created but it’s in the hands of a select few. Voting FF/FG will be more of the same.
Enough.
First @NIAS999 trainee Advanced Paramedic - Urgent Care posts advertised! 🩺
Historic step for the Trust as part of our commitment to getting the most appropriate care to our patients first time!
Closing date 1st Nov.
https://t.co/PHtntGhhQq