Calls to 999 about domestic violence – and reported offences – spiked over two weeks in July. According to figures from West Midlands police, reports were high for much of the tournament, and the heatwave, but stay noticeably elevated across one fortnight.
From the 6th to the 19th – when England played four matches – and temperatures reached 34 – figures for both measures were above average on all but two days (average across June and July). In fact, in just those fourteen days there were nearly 3,000 calls to 999 and more than 4,450 offences reported overall.
We know that domestic violence increases in hot weather. Research found extreme heat can act as a risk amplifier in homes where abuse, control and aggression are already present. People’s tempers are short and they are irritable, they might drink more, and sleep may be harder.
We also know reports of domestic violence tend to spike around England matches. And, in fact, studies have shown it is often the day after the match that calls increase. England beat Norway on Saturday the 11th of July. On that day there were 207 999 calls and 308 incidences. The next day those numbers jumped to 270 and 370, respectively. The averages were 182 and 289.
Both heat and football are risk factors, but it seems the two together are a toxic combination.
The worst day, for both calls and incidents, was Sunday the 5th of July. The day before England played Mexico. That match took place in the early hours of Monday morning, so we can assume some of the risk factors may have been evident then.
At Anawim we saw a rise in Domestic Violence disclosures in July too. Of course, any kind of violent behaviour can not be excused by football, or temperature – and neither are a cause. However, in homes where the risk is high, then they might contribute to an escalation. These figures show a terrifying fortnight for victims in the West Midlands.
Gurpreet Samra – Anawim’s Central Services Manager said: “Sadly these figures are not surprising. There is never an excuse for abuse. Remember if you are in immediate danger, call 999, and if you need help there are services throughout the city, including Anawim, that you can get in touch with.”
At Anawim we have an open access drop-in service available to any woman who needs it for any reason, Monday to Friday. We also have specialist Domestic Violence staff, and our caseworkers are trained to work with victim-survivors. There’s more here.