Police fear surge of violence in homes during Euro 2012 match

Police figures from forces across the region show a worrying spike in reports of alcohol related domestic violence when England play in a football tournament.

In North Yorkshire, the 2010 World Cup had a real impact on domestic abuse levels, with reported cases on the day when England were knocked out by Germany the highest in 2010, with almost twice as many cases than on any other day during the entire year.

A similarly high figure was reported in West Yorkshire, where police have now launched a high-profile campaign during Euro 2012.

Officers will be distributing posters and stepping up their presence on social networking sites to coincide with the start of the European Championships, warning of the damaged lives abuse causes and the penalties.

Extra patrols will also be put in place.

West Yorkshire Police assistant chief constable Geoff Dodd, said: “During football tournaments we often see an increase in violence and particularly domestic abuse incidents. This is something none of us should tolerate.

“We all need to play our part in encouraging victims to report incidents to us so that we can act to prevent them being victimised again and make sure offenders are prosecuted.”

Detective Inspector Chris Stones, of the child and public protection unit, added: “If you feel you might be at risk during the tournament, think about what you can do to keep yourself safe and ask for help and advice from either your local police, other agencies or voluntary groups in your area.

“To men who have been violent in the past – you know that the risk of you offending can increase over these kinds of events if you get drunk. Think about where you could end up and what you can do to stop it happening.

“You also may need advice and help.”

Meanwhile, the Harrogate and District Community Partnership is also carrying out a campaign.

Simon Aston, domestic abuse co-ordinator for Harrogate and Craven, said: “It’s vital we get this message across.

“It’s a shame that national sporting events result in a rise in domestic abuse but we hope that victims will use the helpline number to get advice and support and others might think twice before committing any form of abuse.”

The community partnership will also be carrying out a campaign to encourage drinkers to substitute an alcoholic drink for water, with more than 1,000 free bottles distributed across bars and pubs in Harrogate town centre.

Mel Greaves, anti-social behaviour officer for the Harrogate and District Community Safety Partnership, said: “We ran this campaign during the last football World Cup and the levels of violence and anti-social behaviour in Harrogate town centre did not increase.

“Drinking water between alcoholic drinks has health benefits as well as reducing the number of calls made to the police and visits to accident and emergency.

“Also people should be aware that customers can request and obtain free tap water in licensed premises.

“We would like to thank landlords who are supporting this campaign.”

The Harrogate domestic abuse helpline is 0300 110110.

The Yorkshire Post revealed last year that the number of reported incidents in Hambleton and Richmondshire – home to Catterick Garrison, Europe’s largest army base – had overshot predicted levels by more than a third, with growing numbers of frustrated ex-servicemen who are unable to find employment fuelling the rise.

Experts said large social events where drinking takes place, such as agricultural shows, are also contributing factors in the spike.