As the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off on 11 June, people are urged to: Stop, Notice, and Act against domestic abuse. Don’t look away.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup – which will take place from 11 June to 19 July – is a time for celebration, community and a shared love for the game. But for some people, this period is marked by increased domestic abuse.
Research shows that domestic abuse incidents rise by 38% when England loses, and by 26% when they win or draw.
Football itself does not cause domestic abuse, but major tournaments can bring factors that raise the risk. This includes emotional stress, alcohol and substance use, financial pressures and gambling.
When something isnĘžt right – in relationships, at home, at work, or in our communities – “blow the whistle”. That means recognising abuse, signposting to support, and speaking up if you witness or experience abusive behaviour.
Everyone has the right to feel safe
Domestic abuse takes many forms – including coercive control, physical, emotional and sexual abuse, in couple relationships or between family members.
Anyone can be affected: 1 in 4 women experience domestic abuse in their lifetime, and 1 in 6 or 7 men.
No one should make you feel unsafe. All Defence personnel are expected to treat others with dignity and respect, inside and outside of work. There is no Defence for abuse.
Supporting the Armed Forces community
In a military context, there is a misconception that domestic abuse support services are only for the Service person and not the whole family.
Defence has a clear duty to safeguard our people and their families from domestic abuse and has a range of support services in place – in the UK and overseas – to ensure every person in the Armed Forces (Regular and Reserve) community gets the support they need and deserve.
Defence’s Domestic Abuse Action Plan set out actions to tackle abuse through prevention, support and perpetrator interventions – backed by cultural change initiatives, leadership, education and training.
Support services for Armed Forces families
Holistic care and support
The Victim Witness Care Unit (VWCU) provides independent, trauma-informed support to victims-survivors and witnesses of serious crimes that have been committed by persons subject to Service law, in the UK and abroad.
The unit is independent of the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force (single Services’) Chains of Command and supports people throughout their journey in the Service Justice System. They also have independent advisors that specialise in domestic violence and sexual violence.
Specialist welfare services
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