Support to keep you safe, whatever the score

Reported domestic abuse incidents increased by 26% when our national team played, 38% if they lost, and 11% the day after, regardless of the outcome.*

Major events like the football World Cup can bring changes in routine and added pressures. We know from national data, that incidents of domestic abuse can increase during games, win or lose. And with many matches taking place late into the evening, it’s important to know that support is available both during the day and out of hours.

It can be helpful to plan ahead to help keep you and your family safe. If you need support, or if you know someone who might, there are organisations and apps that can help.

We all have a role in keeping our communities safe. If something worries you, trust your instincts and report it, you could help someone get the support they need.

In an emergency call 999

If you, or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999 and ask for the police.

If you’re calling on a mobile and you can’t talk, press 55 and your call will be put through to the police.

If you're calling from a landline and don't speak, the operator will put you through to the police if they can only hear background noise.

Urgent support 

• National Domestic Abuse Helpline – 0808 2000 247 (24 hours a day)
• The Men’s Advice Line, for male domestic abuse survivors – 0808 8010 327 (Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm)
• The Mix, free information and support for under 25s in the UK –  text 85258
• National LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline – 0800 999 5428
• Samaritans  116 123 (24 hours a day) 

A safe place to stay in an emergency

Contact your local authority out of hours service. You can also contact the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247. 

Useful apps 

• Hollie Guard - designed to turn your smartphone into an advanced personal safety device, Hollie Guard instantly shares your location, records video and audio evidence, and alerts emergency contacts if you’re in danger.
• Bright Sky - for anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or anyone who is worried about someone who may be in an abusive relationship.

*The Not-So-Beautiful Game - NCDV - report from 2024