This FIFA World Cup season, Wiltshire Police will be stepping up patrols in town and city centres across Wiltshire to ensure the celebrations can be enjoyed by all.
Data from the Euros in 2024 showed that 11% of football-related reports to Wiltshire Police were for drink driving, and 22% were for domestic abuse. The campaign, running from 28 June until the World Cup final on the 19 July, aims to reduce the number of drink driving incidents, and encourage friends and family of domestic abuse victims to recognise domestic abuse behaviours and seek support.
Inspector Neil Duffin, who heads up the Roads Policing Unit, said: “My message to those going out to watch the World Cup is simple – do not drink alcohol and drive. If you plan to drink alcohol, you must make suitable arrangements to get home regardless of the length of your journey.
“The consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol extend far and wide and can be devastating for victims and their families. Being caught drink driving can cause you to lose your job, lose your freedom to go on holiday, and affect your relationships. If you witness someone getting into a vehicle whilst intoxicated, call 999 immediately – you may save someone’s life.”
Temporary Detective Chief Inspector Claire Smith the Wiltshire Police lead for tackling violence against women and girls, said: “We recognise that the World Cup celebrations may cause fear and worry for those experiencing domestic abuse behaviours living in our communities. I urge anyone who needs support, advice and guidance to reach out to report and tell someone. I understand Wiltshire Police may not be the first port of call, however there are lots of support services available both locally and nationally who are ready to support you in taking that brave step – please tell someone.
“We know from previous international football tournaments that as a force we do not always see a rise in reported domestic abuse but our partner agencies, including victim support charity FearFree, do experience an increase in volumes of people seeking help and support. During the Euros in 2024, FearFree saw a 21% increase in traffic to their website. Wiltshire Police, along with our partners, are here to listen if you need help.”
Chief Inspector Al Lumley is the Silver Commander for Wiltshire Police’s operational response to the FIFA World Cup.
Ch Insp Lumley said: “I want our communities to go out and enjoy the World Cup with their friends and family this summer. Rest assured that we have robust plans in place, and our police officers, staff and volunteer teams are on hand to respond to any incidents that arise to ensure our town centres, licensed premises and roads remain safe for all.
“We are working with licensed premises, local domestic abuse support agencies, and our local authority partners to ensure the tournament runs as smoothly as possible. If you see anything suspicious, please report it to us.”
More information about Pubwatch can be found here.
Over the next three weeks, messages will be appearing on our official social media channels, reminding drivers about the consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol, and highlighting different domestic abuse behaviour types. Information about different local and national domestic abuse support services will also be shared.
Domestic abuse support and advice can be found on the Wiltshire Police website. More information about the consequences of drink driving, and online reporting, can be found be found here.
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