THERE’S no excuse for abuse – that’s the message from West Midlands Police who want everyone to enjoy the football this summer.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 will kick off on Thursday (June 11) and will run until July 19.
Whilst this may be a time of fun and celebration for many, for others, this can be quite a nerve-wracking time.
West Midlands Police said football matches do not cause domestic abuse – but factors such as increased alcohol consumption and heightened emotions during matches can sometimes cause existing domestic abuse to increase in frequency and severity.
The force said it will be running a targeted operation which will see officers act on information and seek out perpetrators.
The specialist Public Protection Unit will be working alongside the Operational Support Unit and local policing areas to target those suspected of being involved in abuse.
The teams will be going out around the whole of the region to arrest them and then look to pursue prosecutions to seek justice for victims.
Detective Inspector Charlie Sparks, from the force’s Public Protection Unit, said: “Domestic abuse can devastate the lives of a partner, children and other loved ones – both now and in the future.
“We want everyone to be able to enjoy the football safely this summer without being in fear.
“It’s fine to be happy, frustrated or disappointed following a football match. But what’s not fine is for you to take your feelings out on your loved ones. No matter the score and no matter how you feel about it, there is absolutely no excuse for abuse.
“We never underestimate the impact of domestic abuse and it’s why we’re committed to supporting victims and catching perpetrators.”
The focused activity aims to build on the work of the teams, including specialist officers, do day in, day out, to identify offenders and safeguard victims.
The force has had major improvements specifically to how it supports people suffering domestic abuse.
This includes significant enhancements to how it handles incoming calls for service, and there are independent domestic abuse specialists from local charities working across our 999 control rooms.
Remember, if you have experienced abuse of any kind then you don’t have to deal with it alone, and it’s never your fault.
Call 999 if you are in danger, if threats have been made against you or if a crime is in progress.
If you need the police but are unable to talk due to your situation, you can dial 999 then press 55 instead of asking for the police.
To get support click here.
Anyone concerned about their behaviour or the behaviour of a loved one, should contact the Respect Phoneline on 0808 802 4040 or visit to its website.
