Pendle News Room

And they’re encouraging others to do the same by giving it the red card! 

Cases of abuse in the home rise during big football competitions, a trend linked to an increased consumption of alcohol among those watching big games at home.

Pendle Community Safety Partnership is supporting Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner to raise awareness of the penalties for offenders and promote advice and information for victims.

Claire Bennett, Charity Manager for PAC, Positive Action in the Community, said: “During the last World Cup domestic violence offences went up nationally, both when England lost and won games.

“This is simply not acceptable and we’ll be doing as much as we can to prevent offences taking place and where offences do take place, to support victims.”

Councillor David Whipp, Chairman of Pendle Community Safety Partnership, added: “Domestic violence is a terrible crime which can wreck an individual’s life and tear families apart. 

“Most people will watch the game and never do anything violent but a small minority will become deeply unpleasant and aggressive.

“If we can prevent just one incident or give just one victim the confidence to come forward as a result of our campaign, then we will have been successful. 

“The World Cup is a fantastic tournament and we want families to be able enjoy it together safely.” 

If you’re experiencing domestic violence or know someone who is, you can contact Lancashire Police on 08451 25 35 45 or 999 in an emergency. 

You can also contact: 

• Pendle Domestic Violence Initiative Helpline - (01282) 726000 or email pdvi@p-a-c.org.uk
• Lancashire Victim Services – 0300 323 0085 

There’s also the 24-hour National Domestic Violence Freephone Helpline – 0808 2000 247 

Throughout the tournament Pendle Council, which has been awarded White Ribbon status,  is encouraging men to sign the pledge never to never to commit, condone, or remain silent about men’s violence against women in all its forms.

This can be done online at www.whiteribbon.org.uk

Notes to editors

PAC – Positive Action in the Community manages:

• SafeSpace - supported accommodation for homeless young people aged 16 – 21
• HAPI Homelessness Awareness and Prevention Interventions - supporting young people aged 14-25
• Pendle Domestic Violence Initiative – supporting victims of domestic abuse for those aged 16 and over
• The Lookout – supporting young people affected by domestic abuse aged 4 - 18
• RAH - Reducing Aggression and Harm in young people towards others aged 5 - 18
• Evolve counselling and Life Skills Services - all ages
• The Wellbeing Challenge East Lancashire - working in partnership with Lancashire Mind