People experiencing domestic abuse are strongly encouraged to seek support, particularly during periods when incidents are anticipated to rise. This is especially relevant with the Six Nations Rugby Championship kicking off on Saturday.
Research has shown that major sporting events can correlate with an increase in domestic abuse incidents.
Factors such as emotional stress, alcohol consumption, and betting activities before, during, and after matches can act as triggers in relationships where abuse is already present.
While watching rugby or other sports does not cause abuse, it can exacerbate tensions in households where abuse already exists. As such, the Somerset Domestic Abuse Service, provided by Somerset Council, is urging those affected to seek support.
Support for those affected
The Somerset Domestic Abuse Service offers tailored support and advice to anyone experiencing domestic abuse. Additionally, there are programs available for individuals who recognise their own behaviour as abusive and wish to change.
Domestic abuse includes any incident or pattern of controlling, coercive, or threatening behaviour, violence, or abuse between intimate partners or family members aged 16 or over, regardless of gender or sexuality.
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Statistics indicate that 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime. For individuals enduring abuse, the Six Nations tournament can be a particularly challenging time, but support is available.
Community Involvement
Encouraging community members to be vigilant and supportive can make a significant difference.
Friends, family, and neighbours should be aware of the signs of domestic abuse and know how to offer help or direct people experiencing it to professional services. By creating a supportive and informed community, we can help reduce incidents of domestic abuse and provide a safer environment for everyone.
Raising awareness
Social media can play a crucial role in raising awareness about the increased risk of domestic abuse during rugby matches.
Sharing information, support resources, and encouraging people to speak out can empower victims to seek help and educate others about this issue.
By taking collective action and offering consistent support, we can work towards reducing domestic abuse and fostering a safer, more supportive community.
Seeking help
The Somerset community is being urged by the Council to consider the well-being of friends, relatives, and co-workers, emphasising that it is everyone’s responsibility to report domestic abuse.
If you are experiencing any form of domestic abuse, worried about someone you know, or concerned about the impact of your own behaviour towards others, help is available:
- Call: 0800 69 49 999 (8am–8pm, 7 days a week including bank holidays)
- Email: SIDAS@somerset.gov.uk
- In an emergency dial 999. If speaking puts you at risk, stay silent, tap the phone, and press 55 when prompted.
- For those who are D/deaf, hard of hearing, or speech-impaired, register with emergencySMS.net to text 999 in an emergency. If you use British sign language (BSL) you can go to 999 BSL for a BSL interpreter.
Together, we can ensure no one suffers in silence.
