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Football tournaments and domestic abuse: implications for health visiting practice

12th June 2026

As the world’s largest football tournament gets underway, a period often marked by both emotional highs and lows and an increased risk of domestic abuse, Dr Michelle Moseley shares important information for health visitors. Health visitors play a vital role in identifying risks, safeguarding children and families, and providing support during these high-risk periods.

Dr Michelle Moseley, iHV Director of Programmes (Learning and Development)

As major football tournaments capture public attention and can be a time for celebration and community cohesion, there is consistent evidence that these events are associated with a rise in domestic abuse. For health visiting teams, this represents a predictable safeguarding pressure point, requiring increased awareness, proactive engagement and clear pathways to support for families. By combining evidence-informed practice with compassionate care, health visitors can play a vital role in identifying, protecting and supporting those affected by domestic abuse during these high-risk periods. 

Domestic abuse affects women, men and non-binary people. While women are disproportionately affected, particularly in terms of severity and risk, a significant number of men and non-binary people also experience abuse and may face additional barriers to seeking help. Accessible, inclusive support for all people affected by domestic abuse is essential.

Research over the past decade has demonstrated a clear pattern of increased domestic abuse incidents linked to football fixtures. Data referenced by the Crown Prosecution Service show that reported incidents rise by around 26% when England play and up to 38% when they lose, with a further increase of approximately 11% the following day regardless of the result. Earlier UK-based analyses of major tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup, also found substantial increases in domestic abuse, with rates rising by over 27% after wins and 33% after losses in some areas (CPS 2022, Ivandić et al. 2024). 

The relationship is complex and multifactorial. Academic research highlights that heightened emotional investment, national identity and expectations, combined with increased alcohol consumption, can contribute to an environment in which existing abusive behaviours escalate. Importantly, experts emphasise that football does not cause domestic abuse; rather, it acts as a situational trigger that can intensify patterns of power and control already present within relationships (Ivandić et al. 2024, South West Londoner 2024, Women’s Aid 2024).

This issue must also be understood within the wider context of domestic abuse prevalence. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) estimates that 3.8 million adults in England and Wales (7.8%) experienced domestic abuse in the year ending March 2025, including 2.2 million women. Many incidents remain unreported, meaning the true scale is likely to be significantly higher. Research and frontline service data consistently indicate that major sporting events can amplify risk for those already living with abuse (ONS 2025).  

Organisations such as Women’s Aid have played a key role in raising awareness during tournaments, highlighting the increased danger period and encouraging the public and professionals to recognise warning signs and offer support. Their campaigns emphasise that abuse often intensifies behind closed doors during high-profile matches and call for collective responsibility in prevention, identification and response (Women’s Aid 2024). 

Call to Action: Supporting Families During Football Tournaments 

Health visitors play a vital role in safeguarding during high-risk periods. Take action: 

  • Stay alert: Be mindful of increased risk during and following major football matches. 
  • Ask the question: Use routine enquiry to sensitively explore safety at home – building trust, with a non-judgemental approach, enables individuals to feel able to speak about abuse. 
  • Trust your professional judgement: Notice changes in behaviour, missed appointments, and physical/ emotional signs of distress or harm. 
  • Support safety planning: Help families identify safe contacts, exit strategies, and emergency options. 
  • Signpost early: Direct families to specialist support, including:  
    • Women’s Aid Live Chat & Directory: www.womensaid.org.uk 
    • National Domestic Abuse Helpline (24/7): 0808 2000 247
    • Respect Men’s Advice Line: 0808 8010327
  • Work together: Share concerns promptly and follow local safeguarding procedures. 

Remember: Domestic abuse is never caused by football—but high-profile matches can increase risk for those already living with abuse. Early intervention can make a critical difference. 

Dr Michelle Moseley, iHV Director of Programmes (Learning and Development)

References  

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