No excuse for abuse – we want everyone to enjoy the football this summer says police

Police have warned football fans that domestic abuse will not be tolerated during the UEFA European Football Championship is taking place. Whilst this may be a time of fun and celebration for many, for others, this can be quite a nerve-wracking time.  

Football matches do not cause domestic abuse, factors such as increased alcohol consumption and heightened emotions during matches can sometimes cause existing domestic abuse to increase in frequency and severity.  

West Midlands Police have measures in place to protect victims of domestic abuse and officers will be actively looking to prosecute and hold offenders to account, issuing Domestic Violence Protection Notices (DVPNs) where appropriate.

DVPNs provide short-term protection for domestic abuse victims, by granting temporary respite from their abuser, that allows victims to access and engage with support services without interference.   

Detective Superintendent Simon Inglis, our force lead for domestic abuse, said: “We want everyone to be able to enjoy the football this summer and whatever the result of the matches, it’s fine to be happy or disappointed. But it’s not acceptable for you to take any frustrations you may have out on other people around you. There’s never any excuse for abuse. 

We always take robust action against anybody who commits domestic abuse offences in order that we can protect victims, so we’ll be doing all we can to ensure people enjoy the matches in a safe way throughout the tournament.” 

PC Catherine Clinton, the football investigation officer for offences against women and girls, also shares her advice here for getting support if you’re concerned about your behaviour and want to change it. 

If you have experienced domestic abuse, it’s important you that you report itto us. In an emergency, call 999. 

There are also a range of support services you can access. Find out more.