Campaign tackles domestic abuse

The Millennium Stadium will host a number of sporting events this Autumn. Credit: Mia Holt

A Welsh Assembly Minister has launched a new campaign to tackle domestic abuse during sporting events.

Lesley Griffiths AM, Minister for Local Government and Government Business, launched the campaign as part of the Government’s Live Fear Free website which tackles sexual harassment against women. It aims to combat the increasing levels of domestic abuse which occurs around sporting events by promoting an anti-violence message.

The Minister said: “Evidence shows the number of incidents reported to the police increases dramatically around the time of big sporting events. This campaign provides a very timely reminder and a very strong message. No matter the results and no matter how much alcohol has been drunk, violence against women and domestic abuse is a crime which will not be tolerated.”

Lesley Griffiths AM has launched a campaign to tackle domestic abuse

Why has the campaign been launched now?

According to the Live Fear Free website: “When Wales played England during the Six Nations tournament in 2012, South Wales Police recorded a 76% increase in domestic abuse incidents compared to the previous weekend.”
This time of year has quite a few big sporting events. Cardiff recently faced Swansea in the first all Welsh premier League derby match, the Rugby League Word Cup is being partly played in Wales and the Autumn Rugby Union Internationals are taking place this month.
A similar campaign was launched during the Six Nations tournament and as a result there was an increase in calls of almost 10% to the All Wales Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence helpline, compared to last year.

Who should you call?

If you have been affected by domestic abuse in Wales you can call the All Wales Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence helpline on 080810800 or visit www.livefearfree.org.uk for confidential, bilingual, 24 hour information and advice. In an emergency call 999.

There is also information available for men who have been victims of domestic abuse.

domestic abuse, Lesley Griffiths AM, sporting events, welsh assembly