Domestic violence line opens for World Cup (From Craven Herald)

Domestic violence line opens for World Cup

6:08pm Wednesday 9th June 2010 in News

A helpline for victims of domestic abuse during the football World Cup has been launched in Craven.

Around a quarter of women and a sixth of men suffer abuse at some point in their lives. And during sporting events – such as the World Cup – the number of incidents increases.

In an effort to help victims over the next month, Craven Community Safety Partnership, with the police and Independent Domestic Abuse Services (IDAS), has launched a 24-hour helpline.

It will be accompanied by a poster campaign headed, “When the match was over, it really kicked off”, which will feature in pubs and licensed premises in Craven and North Yorkshire.

Sarah Hill, director of IDAS, said it was shocking that a sporting event could be marred by an increase in reports of domestic abuse. “However, we are pleased to be part of the countrywide initiative that aims to get the message across that abuse is never acceptable,” she said.

“We feel the 24-hour helpline will provide a vital service at this time and I would urge anyone affected by abuse to please come forward, use the helpline and get the support they deserve.”

The helpline number is 01904 646630.