Euro 2024: A Celebration Marred by Domestic Abuse and Its Impact on Children by Vinny Wagjiani

"By understanding the neuroscience of trauma and implementing robust support systems, we can work towards mitigating these effects and creating a safer, healthier environment for all families. Through the combined efforts of policing, support services, community programs, and societal change, we can begin to tackle this issue and ensure that the beautiful game does not come at the cost of the well-being of our most vulnerable."

Vinny Wagjiani Tweet

We're thrilled to share a very special edition of our Guest Contributor series, where Detective Inspector Vinny Wagjiani shares remarkable insights on the relationship between football and domestic abuse, as part of our Children Keep the Score Campaign.

Vinny is a seasoned professional with a diverse background, serving as a Detective Inspector and contributing significantly to community development as the Chair of School Governors. He is a council member for the Health Practice Associates Council and the Interim Chair of the Kent FA Equality Advisory Group making football accessible to all. Vinny is also an ambassador for both My Emotions Activity Book and the Good Food Academy, ensuring young people are able to self-regulate and live a healthy lifestyle. As a qualified Level 5 Coach and Mentor, he is dedicated to empowering young people to achieve their full potential.

Please note, all views reflected are the individual’s own, and not representative of their employer. Learn more about Children Keep the Score here.

The Euro 2024 football tournament, a highly anticipated event for millions of fans across Europe and beyond, brings together the excitement of the sport, national pride, and the camaraderie of supporters. However, amid the jubilation, a darker side often emerge, one that has profound and detrimental effects on families, particularly children and young people. This year, as in previous years, the shadow of domestic abuse has once again cast a pall over the festivities, revealing a disturbing connection between football fever and family violence.

The Dark Side of Football Fever: Domestic Abuse

Research has shown a disturbing link between major football tournaments and a rise in domestic abuse incidents. During Euro 2024, this pattern is sadly going to continue. The heightened emotions, the stress of watching matches, and the consumption of alcohol contribute to an increase in violent behaviour within households. For some families, the excitement and tension of the tournament can escalate into aggressive and abusive behaviour, with partners and children bearing the brunt.

A study conducted by National Centre of Domestic Violence during previous tournaments revealed that domestic violence incidents increase by up to 38% when the home team loses and by 26% when they win or draw. When alcohol is involved cases are nearly doubled and rise to 47%. This unsettling trend highlights how the pressure and emotional highs and lows of football can exacerbate underlying issues in relationships, leading to harmful outcomes for all involved.

The Brain and Domestic Abuse: How It Affects Children

Understanding how domestic abuse affects children and young people involves looking at how their brains work and grow. When children are in homes where there is violence, it creates a very harmful environment for their developing brains. Seeing or hearing violence makes their brains feel like they are in constant danger, releasing stress chemicals like cortisol and adrenaline.

If children are exposed to these stress chemicals too often, it can hurt their brain development. This might make it harder for them to learn in school, behave well, and manage their emotions.

Research shows that children who witness domestic violence often show signs of PTSD (like soldiers after a battle), anxiety, and depression. The way their brains are wired can change, especially in areas that help with controlling emotions, making decisions, and managing impulses. This can cause long-term problems, like trouble in school, difficulties making friends, and a higher chance of using drugs or alcohol.

The body’s stress system, which includes the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands, becomes overactive in children who are always stressed. This means their brains are always on high alert, ready for danger. Being in this state all the time can make it hard for them to pay attention, learn new things, and get along with others, slowing down their development.

Another important part of the brain affected by stress is the hippocampus, which helps with learning and memory. Too much stress can shrink the hippocampus, making it harder for kids to remember things and learn new stuff. This shows just how serious and lasting the effects of domestic abuse can be on children’s brains.

The Role of Police and Support Services

In response to the surge in domestic abuse during major sporting events like Euro 2024, police and support services play a crucial role in prevention and intervention. Police Forces often implement special measures during tournaments, such as:

Increased Patrols and Rapid Response Units: To address the anticipated rise in incidents, police forces increase their presence in areas known for higher rates of domestic abuse. Local Policing Team are on standby to handle emergency calls swiftly.
Public Awareness Campaigns: These campaigns aim to educate the public about the signs of domestic abuse and how to seek help. By raising awareness, authorities hope to empower victims to come forward and report abuse.
Collaborations with Support Organisations: Police work closely with domestic abuse charities and organisations to provide immediate support to victims. These partnerships ensure that survivors receive the necessary emotional, legal, and financial assistance.
Training for Officers: Special training programs equip officers with the skills to handle domestic abuse cases sensitively and effectively, ensuring that victims feel safe and supported. How we communicate with them during the initial response is critical in gaining trust.
Hotlines and Reporting Mechanisms: Enhanced reporting mechanisms, including dedicated hotlines and online platforms, are often established during major events to provide victims with accessible and discreet ways to seek help.
Community Engagement: Police engage with community leaders and local organisations to foster a supportive environment where victims feel comfortable coming forward. These efforts include workshops, seminars, and community events aimed at educating the public about domestic abuse and available resources.

Supporting Children and Young People

To mitigate the impact of domestic abuse on children, several strategies are essential:

Counselling and Therapy: Providing access to mental health services can help children process their experiences and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Therapeutic interventions, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and trauma-focused therapy, can be particularly effective in helping children recover from the psychological effects of domestic abuse.
Safe Spaces and Shelters: Ensuring that families have access to safe environments away from abusers is crucial for their physical and emotional well-being. Domestic violence shelters and safe houses provide a secure refuge for victims, allowing them to escape dangerous situations and start the healing process.
Educational Support: Schools and educators play a vital role in identifying and supporting children affected by domestic abuse. Tailored educational programs and resources can help these children catch up academically and socially. Educators are often trained to recognise the signs of abuse and provide appropriate support, including referrals to counselling and other services.
Community Programs: Engaging children in community activities and support groups can provide a sense of normalcy and stability, helping them build resilience and self-esteem. Programs that focus on art, sports, and peer support can offer therapeutic benefits and foster a sense of belonging. Having organised a few football tournaments for children and young people, it is clear of the impact it has on them.
Parental Support Programs: Providing resources and support for non-abusive parents can help them better care for their children and themselves. Parenting programs that focus on trauma-informed care can equip parents with the skills to support their children’s emotional and psychological needs.
Legal Advocacy and Support: Legal services can assist victims in obtaining protective orders, custody arrangements, and other legal remedies that ensure their safety and well-being. Advocacy organisations often provide legal aid and representation to help victims navigate the legal systems such as National Centre for Domestic Violence https://www.ncdv.org.uk.

The Broader Societal Response

Addressing the issue of domestic abuse during events like Euro 2024 requires a multifaceted approach that involves the entire community. Society must recognise that the responsibility to prevent and respond to domestic abuse extends beyond Police Forces and support services. It requires a cultural shift that prioritises respect, empathy, and zero tolerance for violence.

Media Responsibility: The media plays a crucial role in shaping public perceptions. Responsible reporting on domestic abuse incidents and the promotion of supportive messages can help change societal attitudes and reduce stigma for victims seeking help.
Corporate and Workplace Policies: Employers can contribute by implementing policies that support victims of domestic abuse, such as flexible working arrangements, paid leave for survivors, and access to counselling services. Workplace awareness programs can also educate employees about the signs of domestic abuse and available resources.
Educational Initiatives: Schools and universities can incorporate programs that teach young people about healthy relationships, consent, and conflict resolution. These initiatives can help prevent the cycle of abuse from continuing into future generations.
Community Involvement: Local communities can play a vital role by creating safe and supportive environments for victims. Community centres, religious organisations, and social clubs can offer resources, support groups, and educational programs that raise awareness and provide assistance.
Policy and Legislation: Governments must continue to strengthen policies and legislation that protect victims of domestic abuse and hold perpetrators accountable. This includes ensuring that Police Forces have the necessary resources and training to effectively address domestic violence.

Conclusion

While Euro 2024 brings excitement and joy to millions, it is essential to acknowledge and address the darker side of such events. The increase in domestic abuse during football tournaments has far-reaching and devastating impacts, particularly on children and young people. By understanding the neuroscience of trauma and implementing robust support systems, we can work towards mitigating these effects and creating a safer, healthier environment for all families. Through the combined efforts of policing, support services, community programs, and societal change, we can begin to tackle this issue and ensure that the beautiful game does not come at the cost of the well-being of our most vulnerable.

Thank you so much, Vinny!

If you’d like to be involved in our Guest Contributor series, please email daisyobrien@forbabyssake.org.uk.