World Cup 2026 - Domestic Abuse & Impact on Children

World Cup 2026 - Domestic Abuse & Impact on Children

With the FIFA World Cup 2026 underway, Wakefield Safeguarding Children Partnership (WSCP) is reminding all professionals to be aware of the increased risk of domestic abuse during major football fixtures and the potential impact on children and young people.

While for many the tournament is a positive and enjoyable event, evidence shows that periods of high-profile sporting fixtures can also lead to increased harm behind closed doors.

Increased Risk During Fixtures

Research consistently shows that domestic abuse incidents can rise during major football tournaments:

• Around 26% increase when England play
• Up to 38% increase if England lose
• Increased risk the following day, regardless of the result

Recent policing data also indicates a rise in domestic abuse-related 999 calls on England match days, placing additional demand on services.

These increases are often linked to alcohol use, heightened emotions, and existing patterns of control and abuse, rather than being caused by football itself.

Children and Young People

Under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, children who see, hear, or experience domestic abuse are recognised as victims in their own right.

Exposure to domestic abuse can have significant impacts on children, including:

• Emotional distress, anxiety and trauma
• Changes in behaviour and presentation
• Impact on school attendance, engagement and attainment
• Increased longer-term vulnerability

Major events such as the World Cup can act as a trigger that escalates existing abuse, increasing risk for children within the home during and after fixtures.

Local Support and Response in Wakefield

• Cranstoun Wakefield Domestic Abuse Support Services (DASS)
  • 📞 01924 972 715
  • 📞 24/7 helpline: 0800 915 1561
  • 📧 wakefielddass@cranstoun.org.uk
  • 🌐 https://cranstoun.org

Specialist support for individuals and families affected by domestic abuse in Wakefield.

• Wakefield Safeguarding Children Partnership (WSCP)
  • 🌐 https://www.wakefieldscp.org.uk

Guidance, procedures and safeguarding support for professionals.

• Operation Encompass (Wakefield)

Operation Encompass ensures that schools are notified before the next school day when police attend a domestic abuse incident where a child is present, enabling timely support

• In an emergency:
  • Dial 999
• If not in immediate danger:
  • Dial 101 or seek support via Cranstoun

What Professionals Should Look For

All practitioners are encouraged to maintain an “eyes open” approach during the tournament, particularly around England fixtures:

• Changes in behaviour (e.g. anxiety, withdrawal, aggression, fatigue)
• Absence or missed appointments following match days
• Indicators of increased risk or tension within the home
• Signs of distress following evenings or weekends when fixtures take place

Key Messages

Major football tournaments are a known safeguarding pressure point. While they do not cause domestic abuse, they can increase frequency and severity where abuse already exists.

Professionals should remain vigilant and continue to identify, share and respond to safeguarding concerns in line with local procedures.