Domestic violence increase feared

West Yorkshire Police have teamed up with West Yorkshire Probation Trust and local authorities to raise awareness of domestic violence, inform people where to go for help and to give advice to both victims and perpetrators.

During the last World Cup in June 2006 incidents of domestic violence rose by about 30 per cent in the county – equating to 285 more victims over the four week period.

An extra 270 people were arrested for domestic violence related offences.

The campaign called "Don't let the World Cup leave its mark on you" will use hard-hitting posters and leaflets to raise awareness across the county.

Detective Inspector Granville Ward from the police's child and public protection unit said: "We know that domestic violence increased during the last World Cup and it is hoped that by raising awareness of this we may be able to prevent history repeating itself.

"My message to victims is that you don't have to put up with violence or abuse. We and our partners are here to help you. If you feel you may be at risk over the tournament, think about what you can do to make yourself safe and ask for help and advice from either your local police safeguarding unit or voluntary groups in your area.

"To men who have committed violence against their partners –we know that the risk of you offending increases over the World Cup. This is often increased by excessive drinking, poorly managed emotions and a decision to resort to violence. Think about the consequences of your actions and what you can do to stop. Contact your local Probation Service about where you can go for advice and help.

"We will take positive action against anyone who commits offences, we will arrest you and we will bring you before the courts."

One of the posters depicts a victim with injuries on her back – all attributed to a red card, a penalty and a goal disallowed. Another shows an offender with the words "wife beater" and various prison sentences tattooed on him.

In Leeds, a dedicated domestic violence response car will be in use, staffed by specially-trained officers with equipment such as head-mounted cameras to record evidence.

Officers in North West Leeds will be issuing "grab bags" to people who may be vulnerable to domestic violence, containing a variety of alarms and devices which can create a safe room should they need one.

Safer Leeds has commissioned increased support for victims at key times over the tournament.

This will mean that police attending domestic violence incidents will be accompanied by an outreach worker from Behind Closed Doors, a local organisation offering support to victims of domestic violence.

Police in Kirklees will be increasing the number of specially trained officers on duty throughout the tournament.

In Wakefield, police officers are visiting people who are likely to be either victims or perpetrators of domestic abuse and are offering appropriate advice.

Barbara Bennett, programmes manager for West Yorkshire Probation Trust domestic violence programme, said: "World Cup finals can prove to be painful events for many England fans, but the shameful fact is they have proven to be even more painful for many families who suffer from an increase in domestic abuse during the tournament.

"Many men we have worked with have recognised a need to change this behaviour and sought help and proved that it is possible for everyone to enjoy the world cup safely," added Ms Bennett.