Bishop warns men against 'bringing violence home' this World Cup

First published on: 21st November 2022

As the FIFA World Cup gets underway, football fan, the Bishop of Tonbridge, has released a pre-match video message asking men not to bring violence home this World Cup season.

"It’s a well-known fact that domestic abuse spikes after big football games finish, especially in derby matches or when England plays,"

Says the Rt Rev Simon Burton-Jones. He continues:

"Winning gives us a nice serotonin boost; losing takes it away.  That’s why there are so many mood swings in fans.  But mood swings can be dangerous, especially when they are combined with drink."

Watch his message in full below or read a transcript


Bishop Simon asks men in particular to consider the impact of their actions on those around them:

"When violence is done to your partner or your family, these victims don’t put it behind them.  It creates physical injuries - and emotional injuries that usually last longer.

Mindful that, due to a variety of concerns, some may be choosing not to engage with the World Cup, for those that are, he says: 

"So, let’s enjoy the game. But if football isn’t coming home, let’s make the promise that violence won’t come home either."

His message is shared in support of The White Ribbon Campaign which invites men to be part of the change to help end male violence against women and girls. 

Although aware that domestic abuse can happen within all kinds of relationships, the campaign particularly focuses on men by encouraging them to promise not to use, excuse, or remain silent about men's violence against women.

This year, White Ribbon Day (25 November), falls in the same week as the start of the FIFA men’s World Cup. Campaigners say that all men can join the team to end violence against women and girls - that's #TheGoal.

For more information about White Ribbon visit: www.whiteribbon.org.uk/

If you are experiencing domestic abuse and need help please contact:

  • 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247
  • Women’s Aid chat helpine and local directory: www.womensaid.org.uk/
  • Rape Crisis: 0808 802 9999
  • Men’s Advice Line: 0808 801 0327
  • Galop – LGBTQ+: 0800 999 5428

If you think you are in immediate danger, please call 999.
 

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