Is there a link between football and a rise in domestic violence?

Despite England closely missing out on winning the Euros 2020 final on the weekend, there is no doubt that throughout the course of the Euros this year, excitement levels and national pride have been at an all-time high. However, research reveals that there can be a darker side to the excitement surrounding this event.

The association between football and violence is historically well known on and off the pitch, and many studies have been undertaken that illustrate the violence that occurs in football stadiums. However, the conclusion of a study conducted in 2014 found that the violent behaviour associated with football can also lead to domestic violence within relationships. The results of this study found that the number of cases reported of violence within relationships increased by 38% when England lost a match, and 26% when they won or drew. Reports of domestic violence were also more frequent on weekends, and reached a peak when England leave a tournament. These statistics can easily be believed when witnessing the chaos and violence that ensued across London during the Euro 2020 final over the weekend.

Domestic violence within relationships is something that of course can occur at any time, and not just during football matches, and there are several ways in which the Family Court can provide assistance in these circumstances. Under the Family law Act 1996, it is possible to make an application to the court for an injunction against a partner or former partner, to prevent them from threatening or harming you. There are two types of domestic violence injunctions under the Family Law Act 1996; non-molestation orders and occupation orders.

A non-molestation order will prevent a partner or former partner harming you or your children, and harm in this instance relates to actual violence or the threat of physical violence, harassment or intimidation and psychological abuse. An occupation order enforces the right that someone has to live in the home, and who is excluded from it. It can also regulate who can enter the property and its surrounding areas.

If you or someone that you know has been subjected to domestic violence and you feel that one of the above injunctive measures would be of assistance to you, then please do not hesitate to contact us to speak to one of our family law specialists, and we would be happy to assist. We would also always encourage anyone subjected to any kind of domestic abuse to contact the Police and other charities capable of offering victim support such as Women’s Aid.