World Cup domestic abuse calls 'up by a fifth'

Calls about domestic abuse have risen by a fifth during the men's World Cup across Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Shropshire, according to one charity

In response, West Mercia Women's Aid's chief executive urged victims not to hesitate when contacting the police.

Sue Coleman said: "We've got the figures in for June and our contacts to our helpline have gone up by 20%."

"If anyone is experiencing violence or fears violence and fears for their safety, they should call 999 and ask for the police to respond.

"It's incredibly important that people know that sometimes the police get a bad rap but actually, if you call 999, if you're in fear because of a threat of violence or actual violence they will come to you straight away."

Liz Warner, from West Mercia Police, said it was important to clarify "football doesn't cause violence" and it was an issue that happened all year round.

"So far the data would suggest that locally, it matches the national picture where there is, unfortunately, there is an increase on the day of England matches and the following day as well," she explained.

"We need to stress that football doesn't cause violence and this abuse happens all year round but we know it will be exasperated during the men's World Cup.

"We know that there are certain triggers that link both football matches and domestic abuse. That will be alcohol and drugs."

"We know it happens all year round but it's going to be concentrated during the matches."

If you have been affected by any of the issues in this story, help and support is available at BBC Action Line.

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