POLICE are launching a campaign to raise awareness of the link between major sporting events and increases in domestic abuse during this summer’s FIFA World Cup.

Devon & Cornwall Police, working alongside domestic abuse charity First Light and other partner organisations, will promote the ‘Blow the Whistle’ campaign throughout the tournament, urging people to recognise the signs of abuse and take action when they witness concerning behaviour.

The initiative comes amid concerns that heightened emotions during major football tournaments can contribute to an increase in domestic abuse incidents, particularly when England and Scotland are playing.

Police say that while the World Cup is a time for communities to come together and enjoy the sport, the combination of excitement, frustration and competitiveness can sometimes lead to unacceptable behaviour behind closed doors.

Detective Superintendent Nicky Seager, Vulnerability Lead for Devon & Cornwall Police, said the force is committed to ensuring supporters can enjoy the tournament safely and responsibly.

‘The World Cup is a time when communities come together to enjoy football and support their teams, but we also recognise that heightened emotions during major tournaments can sometimes lead to an increase in violent outbursts and domestic abuse,’ she said.

‘We are encouraging people to look out for one another and to speak up if they witness or experience abusive behaviour.

‘Abuse is never acceptable, and no one should feel they have to face it alone’, she added.

The Blow the Whistle campaign centres on four key messages: abuse will not be ignored, victims are not alone, support is available, and everyone has a role to play in challenging harmful behaviour.

Campaign organisers are encouraging members of the public to "Stop, Notice, Act, Don't Look Away" when they encounter situations that do not feel right, whether in relationships, workplaces, homes or wider communities.

Lyn Gooding, from First Light, said tackling abuse requires a collective effort.

‘Blow the Whistle is about making it clear that abuse is never acceptable, and that we all have a role to play in challenging it’, she said.

‘You don't need to be an expert to take action, you just need to notice when something isn't right and feel confident to speak up or offer support.

‘We cannot do this alone.

‘Real change happens when individuals, communities and organisations stand together.

‘By blowing the whistle, we send a powerful message that abuse will not be ignored, and that help is always available’.

Police and Crime Commissioner, Alison Hernandez, also highlighted the importance of reporting abuse and holding offenders accountable.

‘It is extremely concerning to hear incidents of domestic abuse increase during the World Cup," she said.

‘I say to all would-be perpetrators, I am not interested in whether your team wins or loses, what matters is that your family does not lose’.

Ms Hernandez urged victims to report incidents to police or speak to someone they trust, adding that her office funds free support services for victims through the OPCC Victim Care service.

She said tackling domestic abuse remains one of her key priorities, with a focus on prevention, education, rehabilitation and disrupting violence against women and girls.

Anyone experiencing domestic abuse or concerned about someone else can seek support through Devon & Cornwall Police or local specialist services. In an emergency, where there is an immediate risk of harm, people should call 999.