Domestic abuse support available during the World Cup 2026

With the FIFA World Cup 2026 starting on 11 June, many people will be gearing up for a month of celebrations and excitement. However, it is crucial that we acknowledge that there will be individuals that are preparing for higher risks of experiencing domestic abuse throughout this timeline.

Recent research by The National Centre for Domestic Violence shows that statistically, domestic violence increases during football tournaments. There is a 26% increase in domestic abuse incidents when the national team plays which accelerates to 38% when England loses.

This increase is often associated with higher levels of drug and alcohol consumption combined with general heightened emotions. With the loss of a game, some individuals channel frustration into harmful and dangerous behaviours at home.

Last year, over half (58%) of the young people we support at YWCA Yorkshire had experienced domestic violence at some point in their lives. We work hard to deliver appropriate and tailored support for our young people and guide them to recognise abuse even when it is not always obvious.

It is important that those experiencing domestic abuse seek advice and support throughout the World Cup to reduce the risk of being harmed or to be assisted out of a violent environment if required.

In the event of an emergency call 999. If you cannot speak, press 55 where you will be prompted to listen for more instructions. You will be able to conduct your whole call in silence if needed.

To contact the National Domestic Abuse Helpline which is open 24/7, call 0808 2000 247. They also have a chat function that can be accessed between the hours 10am – 10pm which can be found here.

If you would like to access specific advice across South Yorkshire, you can do so here:

Sheffield

The Independent Domestic Abuse Services (IDAS) provides support to anyone in Sheffield who has experienced domestic abuse or thinks they might be experiencing it. You can access support by calling their free phone helpline on 0808 808 2241. The helpline is available Monday to Friday: 8am to 6pm and Saturday and Sunday: 11am to 8pm.

They also have a Live Chat function on their website which is available between 1- 4pm every day.

For more information on IDAS, safe accommodation, sexual violence or other national helplines, visit the Sheffield City Council website.

Doncaster

The Doncaster Domestic Abuse Hub offer tools to identify the type of abuse you are experiencing, or you believe someone else is the victim of. You can find this resource here. For more information, and to speak to someone, call 0130 2737 080, visit www.doncaster.gov.uk/domesticabuse, or email dahub@doncaster.gov.uk.

Additional helplines and resources, such as a Domestic Abuse Self-Referral Form, can be found here.

Rotherham

The Rotherham Domestic Abuse Service works in partnership with Hopian to offer outreach support to survivors of domestic abuse.

Hopian operates a helpline for individuals and professionals in Rotherham that can be accessed by calling 0330 2020 571, offering information, safety advice and signposting for support.

You can find further information on domestic abuse support available across Rotherham on the Safer Rotherham Partnership website.