Police officers will be teaming up with a charity to offer more support to victims of domestic abuse during this summer’s football World Cup.
While major football tournaments bring joy to millions of people, sadly police forces nationally often see a significant increase in reports of domestic violence and abuse during these tournaments.
Rising risk during tournaments
Heightened emotions, alcohol consumption and financial pressures from gambling are all contributing factors which can intensify whether England win, lose or draw,
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary will be continuing its work with Aurora New Dawn, a domestic abuse charity based in Hampshire, with Domestic Violence Advocate cars being in operation throughout the 2026 World Cup.
How the DVA car works
The DVA car is a police patrol car crewed with one of our force’s DA Champion police officers who will be joined in the car by an advocate from Aurora New Dawn.
The car will attend domestic abuse incidents to provide immediate support for the victim and ongoing referral for support should they wish.
Officers urge victims to come forward
Inspector Andrea Heywood, DA Champions Lead & Force DA Coordinator, said,
“During major tournaments we often see increased reporting of domestic violence and abuse. The sad truth is we know there will be an increased demand for support from charities like Aurora New Dawn again this summer, as victims come forward to us.
“This is why we are working closely with Aurora New Dawn once again so we can provide the best possible support for victims of these devastating incidents behind closed doors.
“Our message to anyone suffering from domestic abuse is this: We are here for you and if you put your trust in us and come forward, we promise your report will be taken seriously.”
Charity welcomes renewed funding
Brianne Atkins, Service Manager at Aurora New Dawn, said,
“We would like to thank Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary for funding this vital service that enables us to provide support for victims of domestic abuse during the World Cup.
“We know from research that police forces see an increase in domestic abuse reports around national sporting events so we hope that during this time, more victims can be offered independent advocacy support and safeguarding.”
Where to get help
You can contact Aurora New Dawn by calling 02392 479254.
We are also supporting the summer campaign by the Hampshire Domestic Abuse Partnership, who have a free and confidential advice line throughout the tournament on 03300 165 112.
In an emergency, always call 999.
For more information about what domestic abuse looks like, support organisations available, and how to report it, please visit our website.
News shared by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, in their own words. Ed
