Pub patrols to deter domestic abuse during World Cup
BBCFootball fans are being urged "to enjoy the World Cup safely" amid fears of a surge in domestic abuse during the tournament, which begins on Thursday.
Police in Cumbria will be patrolling nightlife hot spots and monitoring anti-social behaviour outside pubs and club throughout the 39-day football extravaganza, particularly at peak times.
In previous years, there has been an increase in reports of domestic abuse during major football tournaments, driven by alcohol-fuelled nights out and heightened emotions.
DCI Mike Taylor said: "We want to see the beautiful side of the game; not the ugly results of people losing their tempers and taking out their frustrations on loved ones."
"Let's be clear: football is not a cause of domestic abuse – but environments involving high emotions and alcohol consumption can sometimes lead to violent or abusive behaviour," said Taylor.
Officers in Cumbria have been planning ahead for the tournament and want potential victims of domestic abuse to know where help and support is available.
Operation Vigilant will see specialist police patrols out in Cumbria over the course of the tournament, to offer reassurance and prevent offending in busy nightlife areas.
The patrols will be staffed by a blend of uniformed police and plain-clothes officers to enable them to identify and respond to anyone who displays predatory or unacceptable behaviour, with a particular focus on hot spots where violence against women and girls might take place.
Any operational response will also include post-arrest investigations and safeguarding of victims.
Independent Domestic Violence Advisors (IDVAs), from Victim Support, will be co-located in the Command and Control room from Thursday to Sunday, from 16:00 BST until midnight, to offer immediate support to anyone in need and identify callers in crisis.
This ensures those experiencing domestic abuse can receive expert, trauma-informed support from the very first contact, alongside an operational response.
'Just a game'
Meanwhile, former perpetrators of domestic abuse are being encouraged to face up to their responsibilities and seek help.
Trained officers will be able to make referrals to agencies which can provide support to past abusers to help them change their ways.
Operation Redefine, which previously ran during Euro 2024, will offer guidance to those under arrest for offences linked to domestic abuse.
Cumbria's Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, David Allen, said: "There is never an excuse to abuse your partner, parents, children or anyone else – if you do, you will face the consequences.
He said it is an exciting event, but win or lose "please remember that at the end of the day, it's just a game.
"No one deserves to feel unsafe in their own home due to a game of football".
He added: "It's a community effort to make our county safer for everyone so please enjoy the World Cup safely."
England play their first match on 17 June against Croatia, with Scotland starting their campaign earlier - with their first match against Haiti on 14 June.