Football might be coming home – abuse never should

Football might be coming home - abuse never should

The 2026 Fifa World Cup starts today (Wednesday 11 June).

Major sporting events can bring excitement, pride and a strong sense of community across our communities. However, for some people, home can become an unsafe place, as domestic abuse escalates behind closed doors.

Domestic abuse is never acceptable and is not caused by football. However, during high-profile tournaments, factors such as increased alcohol consumption, emotional highs and lows, financial pressures, and gambling can heighten the risk of harm for some people.

There is no excuse for domestic abuse, responsibility lies solely with the person who commits it.

If you are experiencing domestic abuse, or are unsure about your situation, please know you are not alone. There is help and support available, talk to someone you trust, contact a local domestic abuse service when you feel able or get in touch with us to report your concerns.

Everyone has the right to feel safe at home and in their relationships.

Support available

To ensure you can receive specialist, independent support, the Police and Crime Commissioner has commissioned services in every area of Merseyside.

These services are on offer to help you get the support you need and deserve.

Domestic Abuse Support Services: Victim Care Merseyside

You can report to the police by calling 101 or online by visiting the following link:

Report domestic abuse | Merseyside Police

You can also report non-urgent matters by direct messaging the Merseyside Police Contact Centre social media channels:

• Facebook: Merseyside Police Contact Centre
• X (Twitter): @MerPolCC
• Instagram: Merseyside Police Contact Centre

In an emergency you should always call 999.

Find out about Protective Orders or how to request information under Clare's Law:

Protective orders | Merseyside Police