Following England’s recent victory over Croatia, Southside Domestic Abuse Service joined Avon and Somerset Police as part of Operation Balearic, a partnership initiative designed to help and support victims of domestic abuse during major sporting events.
While football brings communities together, national evidence shows that incidents of domestic abuse can increase around high-profile matches. In response, Southside’s Independent Domestic Violence Advisors (IDVAs) worked alongside police officers to provide safeguarding and support to victims who reported incidents that have put them at a high risk of harm following the game.
Throughout the operation, police and specialist domestic abuse practitioners work together to identify risk, strengthen safeguarding measures and ensure support is available at the earliest opportunity.
A Southside IDVA involved in the operation said:
“Not everyone is ready to seek support straight away, but early contact matters. By working alongside police, we can begin conversations, build trust and make sure people know help is available whenever they need it. By being there as an IDVA and not in uniform, it breaks down barriers for them to communicate and creates a more positive interaction, helping ensure they leave knowing there are other ways they can be supported and helped.”
Detective Chief Inspector Matt Cable, Avon and Somerset Police lead for Op Balearic said:
“This is about making sure that victims of high-risk domestic abuse are given the best possible support. They receive access to two sets of professionals, in policing and safeguarding, while their abuser is under arrest and in custody. Working together, we ensure they have support to make a report to police should they wish to and are able to access the services they need to help keep them safe.”
Operation Balearic demonstrates the value of partnership working during major events, helping ensure that those affected by domestic abuse can access specialist support as early as possible.
Southside continues to provide confidential advice, advocacy and specialist domestic abuse support across Bath and North East Somerset.
Anyone affected by domestic abuse can contact Southside for support.
If you, or someone you know, is affected by domestic abuse, please reach out. Support is available before, during and after the tournament, you are not alone.
Information can also be found at www.thisisnotanexcuse.org
