Reports suggest that the authorities anticipate a significant increase in cases of domestic abuse during the World Cup. The suggestion is that extended periods of higher than usual levels of drinking may well lead to an increase in the incidence of abuse within the home. What is not clear is whether the suggestion is that things will be better if England do well in the Tournament but in any event this is a worrying if not surprising side effect of the World Cup.
Having been helping victims of domestic abuse by enlisting the aid of Women’s Support Groups, Refuges, and the Courts since starting in Family Law Practice in 1990 I can certainly vouch for the fact that alcohol consumption is often a factor in cases of domestic abuse.
The good news is that, despite the Government having withdrawn legal aid for most areas of Family Law, it remains available to victims of domestic abuse subject to them being financially eligible. Indeed some of the standard criteria for applying for legal aid are waived for victims of abuse.
Urgent assistance is therefore available to people who are victims of domestic abuse. It needs to be understood that abuse does not just mean physical violence. It can be harassment, threats or mental abuse. Urgent help is available to ensure that victims are protected from further abuse. In certain circumstances the perpetrator of the abuse can be legally removed from the home so as to ensure the safety of the victim and particularly where there are any children in the household.
I sincerely hope that the only serious fouls will be on the pitch and will swiftly be sorted with the production of a red card but for those who find themselves the subject of abuse from their partner, ex-partner or even family members, along with my team I will be available to offer urgent advice, support and action to ensure that they are protected.