Domestic abuse injunctions during the World Cup
The football World Cup is one of the most anticipated sporting events in the world. For many families, it is a time of celebration, social gatherings, and national pride. However, family law practitioners and domestic abuse support organisations are often aware of a troubling trend that can emerge during major football tournaments: an increase in reports of domestic abuse.
Research conducted in the UK found that reported domestic abuse incidents increased by 38% when England lost a World Cup match and by 26% when England won or drew. While football itself does not cause domestic abuse, heightened emotions, alcohol consumption, gambling-related pressures, and existing patterns of controlling behaviour can contribute to an increased risk of abuse within some households.
For victims of domestic abuse, periods such as the World Cup can be particularly challenging. Where abuse escalates or there is an immediate risk of harm, family law provides important legal remedies through a domestic abuse injunction designed to protect victims and their children.
What Is an Injunction?
An injunction is a court order that requires a person either to do something or, more commonly in domestic abuse cases, to stop doing something. The Family Court has the power to make protective orders where there is evidence of domestic abuse or a risk of abuse.
These orders are not intended to punish the respondent. Instead, their primary purpose is to provide immediate protection and prevent further harm. Where there is an immediate risk of harm, an emergency protective order under family law can often be obtained at short notice.
Non-Molestation Orders
The most frequently used injunction in domestic abuse cases is a Non-Molestation Order.
A Non-Molestation Order can prohibit a respondent from:
Using or threatening violence;
Harassing, intimidating, or pestering the applicant;
Contacting the applicant directly or indirectly;
Attending the applicant's home or workplace;
Communicating through social media or third parties.
During the World Cup, tensions within a household may escalate following a match result. A partner may become verbally aggressive, make threats, repeatedly send abusive messages, or engage in intimidating behaviour. Even where physical violence has not occurred, the court may consider whether the behaviour amounts to domestic abuse warranting protective intervention.
Applications can often be made urgently. In serious cases, the court may grant a without notice non-molestation order, hearing the application without notifying the respondent beforehand if there is a risk that giving notice would place the applicant in greater danger.
Importantly, breaching a Non-Molestation Order can be a criminal offence and can result in arrest, prosecution, and imprisonment.
Occupation Orders
In some situations, preventing contact is not enough. A victim may continue to feel unsafe while living in the same property as the alleged abuser.
An Occupation Order regulates who can live in or access the family home. Depending on the circumstances, the court may:
Exclude one party from the property;
Restrict access to certain parts of the home;
Require a party to leave the property temporarily;
Allow the applicant and any children to remain in occupation.
For example, if domestic abuse escalates during the World Cup and a victim fears further incidents, an Occupation Order may provide immediate practical protection by creating physical separation between the parties. Our occupation order solicitors can advise on whether this remedy is appropriate in your situation.
How Does the Court Decide?
When determining whether to grant an injunction, the court will consider the evidence presented. This may include:
Witness statements;
Text messages, emails, and social media communications;
Photographs of injuries or property damage;
Police records;
Medical evidence;
Statements from family members or other witnesses.
The court's primary concern is whether protection is necessary and proportionate. In Occupation Order applications, judges often apply the "balance of harm" test, weighing the potential consequences of granting or refusing the order.
Protecting Children
Domestic abuse rarely affects only the adults involved. Children who witness arguments, threats, coercive behaviour, or violence can suffer significant emotional and psychological harm, even if they are not directly targeted.
The Family Court treats the welfare of children as a paramount consideration and can tailor protective orders to safeguard both the applicant and their children from further harm.
Seeking Help Early
The World Cup should be remembered for sporting achievement and celebration, not fear or intimidation within the home. If abusive behaviour occurs, victims should know that legal protection is available and can often be obtained quickly in urgent circumstances.
Non-Molestation Orders and Occupation Orders remain among the most effective tools available to family lawyers seeking immediate protection for vulnerable individuals and their children. While the World Cup may last only a few weeks, the effects of domestic abuse can be long-lasting. Our non-molestation order solicitors can advise on the most appropriate protection for your circumstances.
Prompt legal advice and early intervention can play a crucial role in ensuring safety, stability, and peace of mind during periods of heightened risk.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, our domestic abuse solicitors can provide specialist legal advice as soon as possible. Early action can make a significant difference in securing protection and preventing further harm.
Maryam Abbasi is a Senior Associate in our family team and can be contacted at Maryam.abbasi@orwins.law
