Euro 2020: Women's Aid Shares Domestic Violence Warning After Euros Loss

Domestic violence and abuse charity Women's Aid shared a message urging victims to seek help after England lost to Italy in the Euro 2020 final on Sunday.

The tweet comes after domestic abuse charities issued warnings about the link between domestic abuse cases and England losing matches when the Euro 2020 matches began last month.

The charity posted a link to their information and support page moments after England's loss, writing: "Football doesn't cause domestic abuse but a big game can be the catalyst for increasing or more severe abuse. If you're a survivor who needs support, please reach out to us. In an emergency, always call 999. #Euros2020 #Euros2021 #ItsNotComingHome".

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Farah Nazeer, chief executive at Women's Aid, told Tyla: "Football does not cause domestic violence - abusers choosing to exert power and control over their victims cause it.

"There is no excuse for abuse, and using football, alcohol, or other external factors as reasons or justifications for abuse, denies the true responsibility, which always lies with the perpetrator.

"We do know that the number of reported cases of domestic abuse rises around football matches. Increased alcohol consumption and the strong emotions associated with the game can cause existing abuse to increase in both severity and frequency."

A 2013 study by Lancaster University looked at the number of domestic abuse cases reported during the 2002, 2006 and 2010 World Cups.

The study found that the risk of domestic abuse increased by 26 per cent when the England team won or drew and rose by 38 per cent when the national team lost.

Although football does not cause domestic abuse, it can compound with existing abusive behaviour.

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On Sunday night millions of viewers watched as England and Italy went head-to-head in the Euro 2020 final. Italy was eventually victorious after England led by one point in the first half.

At the start of the Euro 2020 matches, Women's Aid tweeted a link to support for those in need and highlighted that football does not cause domestic abuse.

Domestic violence charity Refuge also shared a Tweet during Sunday's with advice for victims. The tweet reads: "Share our Helpline details tonight. #Football tournaments don't cause abuse; abuse is always a choice an abuser makes - but they can aggravate pre-existing abusive behaviours. So please, share and let survivors know they are not alone."

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Ruth Davison, chief executive of Refuge, said at the start of the Euros: "While of course football tournaments do not cause abuse - abuse is a choice a perpetrator makes - they can exacerbate pre-existing abusive behaviours.

"Abuse doesn't come 'by appointment' - it happens all your round. But Refuge does want to reassure women that 365 days a year, come rain or shine, we are here for you, and can offer you the support you need."

If you're a victim looking to report abuse, you can call the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247. Or - if it is not safe to do so - visit the organisation's website and discreetly fill out a form.