The 2026 Fifa World Cup is heading to its exciting climax, with England hoping to secure a place in the final against Argentina tonight (15 July) .
Major sporting events can bring excitement, pride and a strong sense of community across our communities. However, for some people, home can become an unsafe place, as domestic abuse escalates behind closed doors.
Domestic abuse is never acceptable and is not caused by football. However, during high-profile tournaments, factors such as increased alcohol consumption, emotional highs and lows, financial pressures, and gambling can heighten the risk of harm for some people.
There is no excuse for domestic abuse, responsibility lies solely with the person who commits it.
If you are experiencing domestic abuse, or are unsure about your situation, please know you are not alone. There is help and support available, talk to someone you trust, contact a local domestic abuse service when you feel able or get in touch with us to report your concerns.
Everyone has the right to feel safe at home and in their relationships.
Support available in Knowsley
If you recognise the above in your relationship, help and support is available. There is no excuse for domestic abuse.
If you, your child, or someone you know is at immediate risk of harm, you should contact the police urgently, call 999. If you are not at immediate risk but are concerned, please contact one of the services listed below:
Knowsley Council Safer Communities Service (Specialist Domestic Abuse Service)
Tel: 0151 443 2610
Enquiries.safercommunities@knowsley.gov.uk
Knowsley Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub
Tel: 0151 443 2600
The First Step (Specialist Domestic Abuse Service)
Tel: 0151 548 3333
Website: www.thefirststep.org.uk
Savera UK
Helpline 0800 107 0726
www.saverauk.co.uk
Support is also available through:
- National Domestic violence Helpline 0808 2000 247
- Men’s Advice Line 0808 801 0327
- LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline 0800 999 5428
- Women’s Aid – Live chat to Women’s Aid
Galop
Galop is the leading LGBT+ anti-violence and abuse charity, providing the National LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline. They provide advice and support to individuals who have experienced hate crime, sexual violence, and domestic abuse and have an online referral form. They also offer a Trans Advocacy Service.
Website: www.galop.org.uk
Helpline: 0800 999 5428
Email: help@galop.org.uk
You can report to the police by calling 101 or online by visiting the following link:
Report domestic abuse | Merseyside Police
You can also report non-urgent matters by direct messaging the Merseyside Police Contact Centre social media channels:
- Facebook: Merseyside Police Contact Centre
- X (Twitter): @MerPolCC
- Instagram: Merseyside Police Contact Centre
In an emergency you should always call 999.
Find out about Protective Orders or how to request information under Clare’s Law:
Protective orders | Merseyside Police