Blow the Whistle on Domestic Violence

St.Helens Council and agencies from the St Helens Community Safety Partnership will be supporting a national Blow whistledrive to tackle the expected rise in domestic violence during the World Cup.

Statistics show that domestic violence increases across the UK during the World Cup, due to increased alcohol consumption and high emotions - particularly in the event of an England defeat.

According to research by Women's Aid, the days when England play can lead to a 25 per cent rise in domestic abuse incidents. The day after the big game can see a further 10 per cent increase

St.Helens Council's Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Housing, Planning and Community Safety, Councillor Richard McCauley said: "The World Cup is a fabulous occasion - and everyone should have the right to enjoy it peacefully. There is absolutely no excuse to let the emotions we all experience turn into violence."

The campaign includes posters - aimed at both perpetrators and victims - emphasising that domestic violence affects the whole family, including children.

Those messages include:

  • Don't let the World Cup leave its mark on you
  • Blow the Whistle on Domestic Violence
  • There's No Excuse

There will also be radio ads, voiced by former The Bill actor Christopher Ellison, depicting a football style commentary about a violent attack.

A social media campaign, encouraging residents to add a White Ribbon to their profile picture to raise awareness and sign the pledge against domestic violence, will also launch.


In St.Helens the White Ribbon flag will fly over the town hall for England's opener against Italy on 14 June and for the third and fourth place play-offs and final on 12 and 13 July and the Council will also be supporting Merseyside Police's drive to clamp down on domestic violence across Merseyside.

One in four women or one in six men will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime. It can be psychological, sexual, emotional or financial and include threats, harassment, physical attacks, financial control and emotional abuse.

If you are violent or abusive to those you love and care about, you can easily choose to stop!  Contact RESPECT on 0808 802 4040 for help and advice (free from landlines and most mobile phones).

And if it's happening to you or anyone you know, help is available. Call the Independent Domestic Violence Advocate on 01744 743 200.

For 24 hour support, call the Domestic Violence and refuge helpline on 01925 220541

To pledge your support against Domestic Violence in St.Helens visit, www.sthelens.gov.uk/whiteribbon