2022 FIFA World Cup: Children at increased risk of abuse

World Championship in Qatar has arrived as football fans from around the world come together to support their country. For now honorpatriotism and excitement are common feelings for most NSPCC warns that it is not for everyone.

According to the British charity for the protection of children, cases of domestic violence are known to soar during such tournaments. During past World Cups, the number of contacts to the NSPCC’s helpline rose 33 per cent above the monthly average, with more than 1,000 calls, the study found.

The charity believes it is caused by a combination of factors including high levels of emotional stress, alcohol consumption and sports betting. All of these act as potential triggers for acts of violence home.

A 13-year-old girl who contacted Childline during the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia said: “My brother becomes very aggressive when he drinks, shouts at us for no reason and demands money from my mum. Today, after the England match, he came home drunk and punched my mum in the face, so I had to call the police.

“He’s been causing trouble for years and frankly I’m done with him. I wish he would just disappear from our lives so that my mom and I wouldn’t be so scared all the time.”

With recent UK Government figures showing that at least 250,000 children have been affected by domestic abuse in England alone, the NSPCC is calling on the Government to do more to support vulnerable children. The plea comes just months after children were officially recognized as victims of domestic violence under the Domestic Violence Act, which was passed in January.

This has led to calls for the UK Government to introduce a Victims Bill which would be strengthened to ensure specialist support is available to all children affected by domestic violence. The government published draft legislation in May, but children and families are still waiting for it to be brought before parliament.

Sir Peter Wanless, who is chief executive of the NSPCC, said: “Most fans across the country will be enjoying the World Cup with friends and family, but for many children living with domestic violence it will bring nervousness, fear and even violence. . Anyone who hears or sees anything worrying about a child while watching football can call the NSPCC helpline for confidential advice.

“Domestic violence can destroy a child’s confidence and sense of security, and without support it can have devastating consequences at the time and long into the future. The Government could take a step towards ensuring children have the opportunity to recover from domestic violence by bringing forward a Victims’ Bill which recognizes the needs of the hundreds of thousands of children living in abusive homes.’

Are you worried about a child or are you a child who needs support because of domestic violence? You can contact the NSPCC helpline for support and advice, which is completely free. You can contact them on 0808 800 5000 or online via the official NSPCC website. Children also have the opportunity to communicate Children’s line anytime to help yourself.