The World Cup, Domestic Abuse and Safeguarding: What Should DSLs Be Thinking About?
Following England’s 4–2 victory over Croatia, many schools will have children and staff arriving and discussing goals, performances and hopes for the rest of the tournament.
Major sporting events such as the FIFA World Cup bring excitement, community spirit and opportunities for families to spend time together. For many children, tournaments create positive memories and a chance to share in a national event.
However, safeguarding leaders should also recognise that major sporting tournaments can place additional pressures on some households and may increase vulnerabilities for certain children and families.
Research from Lancaster University identified a concerning correlation between England World Cup matches and incidents of domestic abuse. The study found that reported incidents increased by 38% when England lost and by 26% when England won. Football itself is not the cause of domestic abuse. However, factors commonly associated with major sporting events, such as heightened emotions, alcohol consumption, financial pressures and changes to routine, can contribute to increased tensions within some households.
For children living in homes where domestic abuse is present, periods such as these can be particularly challenging. As safeguarding professionals, it is important that we remain aware of the potential impact on children’s safety, wellbeing and readiness to learn.
Maintaining Professional Curiosity
Many safeguarding concerns come to light through small changes in presentation, behaviour or attendance rather than through direct disclosure.
During the tournament period, DSLs may wish to remind staff to remain professionally curious where children appear unusually tired, withdrawn, anxious or unsettled. Equally, staff should be alert to parents or carers who may appear distressed or indicate that circumstances at home have become more difficult.
While Operation Encompass notifications may provide valuable information following police-attended domestic abuse incidents, many experiences of domestic abuse remain hidden. Schools therefore continue to play a vital role in identifying concerns and providing early support.
Visibility of Support
Major events can provide a useful opportunity to review how support services are promoted within the setting.
Consider whether information relating to domestic abuse support is visible, accessible and discreetly available to those who may need it. This might include posters, leaflets or QR codes displayed in reception areas, visitor spaces or meeting rooms.
School newsletters and parent communications can also be used to remind families of available sources of support and advice. A simple reminder of where support can be accessed may make a significant difference to someone who needs help.
Keeping Safeguarding on the Agenda
Not all staff will be aware of the evidence surrounding increased domestic abuse reporting during major sporting tournaments.
A brief reminder during safeguarding briefings, staff meetings or weekly updates can help ensure colleagues understand why safeguarding teams may be paying particular attention during this period. The aim is not to create concern but to ensure that staff remain vigilant and confident in recognising and reporting potential safeguarding concerns.
Every member of staff contributes to the safeguarding culture of the setting, and maintaining awareness helps strengthen the collective safeguarding response.
Attendance and Wellbeing Considerations
The timing of fixtures can also affect children’s routines and wellbeing.
Late evening matches may result in disrupted sleep patterns, particularly for younger children. Schools may therefore see an increase in lateness, tiredness or requests for absence following high-profile games.
Clear communication with families can help reinforce the importance of attendance while recognising that temporary disruptions to routine may occur. Where children arrive late due to exceptional circumstances, attending part of the school day is preferable to missing education altogether.
Practical Steps for DSLs
As the tournament progresses, safeguarding leaders may wish to:
- Brief staff on the potential safeguarding implications associated with major sporting events.
- Ensure vulnerable children and families remain visible to the safeguarding team.
- Review how domestic abuse support services are signposted within the setting.
- Monitor attendance, punctuality and wellbeing concerns following high-profile fixtures.
- Remind staff of the importance of professional curiosity and timely reporting of concerns.
- Consider including information about domestic abuse support services within parent communications during the tournament.
For most families, the World Cup will be a positive and enjoyable experience. However, maintaining awareness of the additional pressures that major events can create allows schools to remain responsive, supportive and focused on the needs of vulnerable children throughout the tournament
