Abuse charity warns of up to 24 deaths during World Cup

With the FIFA World Cup 2026 now in full swing and England preparing for their first match this week, Swindon’s domestic abuse charity Society Without Abuse (SWA) is warning that win or lose, statistics show there could be at least 7 deaths as a result of domestic abuse.

With an average of 8 women killed each month, or 1.8 a week, by their current or ex-partner, plus 3 deaths a week due to suicide as a result of the trauma of domestic abuse*, in the 10 days it takes for England to play their Group matches, 7 women could lose their lives. Should England progress to the finals, that figure jumps to 24 women between now and 19 July. 

In fact, figures could be higher as research shows that incidents of domestic abuse increase by an average of 47% on days when England wins a World Cup or European Championship match.** 

Already, SWA is working closely with the police and partner agencies to ensure support is available throughout the tournament for those experiencing abuse, as well as for individuals who recognise harmful behaviours in themselves and want to make positive changes. 

Kate Rowland, CEO of Society Without Abuse, said: "Whilst many people will be enjoying the excitement and community spirit that comes with the World Cup, we know that major football tournaments can be a particularly difficult and frightening time for victims of domestic abuse, with men, women and children experiencing increased risk of abuse from intimate partners and family members during this time.   

"Research, and our own experience supporting victims, shows that incidents of domestic abuse increase around major football matches. It's not only during the 90 minutes of the game that people may be at risk. We know incidents can peak from three hours before kick-off and continue for up to ten hours after a match has ended. 

"Where emotions are running high, often alongside increased alcohol consumption, abuse can become more likely whether England wins or loses. That's why it's so important that friends, family members, neighbours and colleagues know what signs to look out for and feel confident reaching out if they are concerned about someone." 

The signs of domestic abuse are not always physical but may also include someone becoming withdrawn from friends and social activities, appearing unusually anxious, showing changes in behaviour, or expressing anxiety about keeping their partner happy. Abuse can take many forms, including emotional, psychological, financial and coercive control. 

The charity, which has been supporting people in the Swindon area for over 50 years, also runs a specialist, free to access programme for those who want to change their own harmful behaviour. Open2Change is available to anyone, male or female and aged 16 or over, who wishes to address unhealthy or abusive behaviours in their relationships. 

Kate said: "Domestic abuse often remains hidden and unreported. We want the whole community to play a role in recognising the signs and helping people access support, which is why we run regular Ambassador training at SWA. It's also vitally important that those causing harm recognise their behaviour and take steps to change it. 

"As England's World Cup journey gets underway, we want everyone in Swindon to enjoy the tournament safely. We'll be cheering England on, but we want the only losses to be those suffered on the pitch (preferably by England’s opponents) not by individuals behind closed doors." 

If you need advice for yourself or a friend relating to domestic abuse, call Swindon’s domestic abuse helpline on 01793 610610.   

To find out more about SWA visit www.societywithoutabuse.org.uk. 

* Figures from SafeLives 

**Research from Warwick Business School