'Scared, controlled, isolated, threatened or intimidated': Police launch World Cup campaign to tackle domestic abuse in Lincolnshire

Lincolnshire Police, working with partners across the county, will distribute 10,000 specially-designed drinks coasters and posters to pubs, bars and other venues in a bid to raise awareness of the help available.

The campaign has been funded by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner using money recovered under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) and has been developed with support from the Lincolnshire Domestic Abuse Partnership, Lincolnshire Domestic Abuse Specialist Service (LDASS) and national charity Respect.

The initiative has a dual purpose – helping victims access specialist support while also encouraging perpetrators to recognise harmful behaviour and seek help to change.

One side of the coasters asks people whether they feel "scared, controlled, isolated, threatened or intimidated" and directs them to support available through LDASS via a QR code.

The reverse side is aimed at those concerned about their own behaviour and promotes the Respect Phoneline, a confidential service supporting people who want to make positive changes in their relationships.

The campaign was developed by Lincolnshire Police's Mablethorpe Neighbourhood Policing Team, building on previous prevention work.

Detective Sergeant Katie Moore said: "As a force we are dedicated to making domestic abuse everyone's business and we hope that this project leads more people to vital support."

The campaign has been deliberately timed to coincide with the World Cup after studies showed incidents of domestic abuse can increase during major football tournaments.

Analysis of incidents recorded in Lincolnshire during the Euro 2020 tournament found domestic abuse reports increased by more than six per cent on England match days and by almost 18 per cent the following day.

Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Sara Munton said: "Major sporting events like the World Cup can be a powerful way to bring communities together.

"However, we also know that incidents of domestic abuse increase during major football tournaments. Through funding this campaign, we are helping to ensure that important information and support is shared in places where it can reach those who may need it the most."

Ann Canter, senior manager for EDAN Lincs delivering LDASS, said: "Abuse is never part of the game and no one should fear the final whistle. Support your team, support each other, not every home crowd is safe."

Tanisha Jnagel, head of helplines at Respect, added: "This campaign helps put information about services in front of people, rather than waiting for them to seek it out. To tackle domestic abuse, we need to address the root cause and encourage perpetrators to change, alongside specialist support for survivors."

Anyone affected by domestic abuse can access support through Lincolnshire Domestic Abuse Specialist Service at www.ldass.org.uk (01522 510041), while those concerned about their own behaviour can contact the Respect Phoneline for confidential advice on 0808 8024040.

For more on the safe Spaces Scheme, visit www.uksaysnomore.org/safespaces

In an emergency, always call 999.