World Cup triggers domestic violence, Isle folk warned

Research shows that during the 2006 and 2010 World Cup domestic abuse reported to the police increased by 30 per cent nationally.

Humberside Police saw the highest level of domestic violence during the month of June during the 2010 World Cup.

Coun Carl Sherwood, cabinet member for customer services, sport and leisure said: “We want to raise awareness of this important issue and try putting a stop to it. There is support available for victims of domestic abuse and for alcohol and substance misusers that we are encouraging people to use.

“We know many people suffer in silence when it comes to domestic violence, but we want to make people aware that there is help and they shouldn’t feel ashamed or scared. They will receive fantastic support.

“This campaign is also trying to tackle anti-social behaviour during the World Cup, after people have been drinking alcohol.”

If people are worried about someone becoming aggressive or they are a victim of domestic violence they should call 101 to report offences or contact a support group for advice.

Detective Chief Inspector Kay Durrant from Humberside Police said: “During the World Cup we do tend to see an increase in the number of calls made to police, reporting incidents of domestic violence. These are often when England has played, and alcohol is involved.

“Police will attend, speak to the people involved and often arrests are made. However, once the dust has settled people to tend to retract their complaint and no longer want to co-operate. I want people to not feel scared and, please think about the impact of domestic violence on yourself, and your family. It is important that these people are brought to justice.

“During the World Cup a dedicated team of officers will be on duty to deal with incidents of domestic violence. Those officers will be working alongside partner agencies to ensure that the best care and support is given to victims and their families.”

The National Domestic Abuse Helpline is a 24 hour service on 0808 2000 247. Other services include:

Amber Project – Domestic abuse support service. Open 9am to 5pm weekdays. Call 01724 278908.

It’s My Right – Domestic and sexual abuse support. Open 9am to 5pm weekdays. Call 0800197 4787.

The Blue Door – Women’s Centre, Laneham Street, Scunthorpe. Open 9am to 5pm weekdays. Call 0800 197 4787.

Rape Crisis – Scunthorpe and Grimsby Rape Crisis. Open 9am to 5pm weekdays. Call 0800 197 4787.

Women’s Refuge North Lincolnshire. Open 9am to 5pm weekdays. Call 01724 289299.

North Lincolnshire Council children and young people’s service. Open 9am to 5pm, Monday to Thursday and 9am to 4.30pm on Friday. Call 01724 296500. Out of hours call 01724 296555.

Substance Misuse support services are also available, they are:

Community Alcohol Service (CAS). Call 01724 852675 Monday to Friday 9.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 4.30pm. For direct access to CAS call Monday to Friday between 10am and 12pm or Wednesday 5pm to 7pm.

ADS website for further services and information – www.ads-uk.org

Drug misuse/issues – 24 hour local support number. Call 0808 143 0640.

Direct access for all drug issues – Shelford House, Shelford Street, Scunthorpe. Open 9am to 4pm Monday to Friday. Call 0808 143 0640.

Claire Coyle, Tenancy Enforcement Manager at North Lincolnshire Homes (part of Ongo) said: “North Lincolnshire Homes recognises the impact that domestic abuse can have on the family and is committed to delivering a service that will protect its residents and their families from harm.

“All reports of domestic abuse are dealt with sensitively, quickly and effectively. We will continue to take firm, prompt and appropriate action against the perpetrators of domestic violence, working closely with partners.”