Police fear a rise in domestic violence in South Yorkshire during Euros

With the football tournament set to kick off in June, police chiefs want to raise awareness of how alcohol is often an aggravating factor in incidents of domestic violence officers are called out to.

A South Yorkshire Police spokesman said: "There’s nothing like watching the team you’re supporting secure a victory or play a great match, especially during such a prominent sporting fixture.

"The camaraderie around such events can help to bring communities together and can provide plenty of enjoyment. Sadly, however, it can also bring with it a darker side.

"What might start as an afternoon with friends, a partner or family members in the pub or having a few drinks at home, can turn in to flared tempers and a regretful sequence of events, with alcohol as the aggravating factor."

Superintendent Natalie Shaw, the force's lead officer for domestic abuse, said: “While sporting events such as the Euros, can be an enjoyable time for many, we also tend to see an increase in the number of people across South Yorkshire suffering at the hands of a domestic abuser, as a result of a number of factors.

“Drinking alcohol is often a factor in many cases, and it’s a sad fact that this leads to an increase in the number of people who endure some form of violence, threatening behaviour or verbal abuse from their partner.

“We don’t tolerate domestic abuse, and you shouldn’t have to either. Drinking alcohol is not an excuse for violent or abusive behaviour. There is no excuse for domestic abuse of any kind, and I don’t want people to suffer in silence if they are experiencing any form of domestic abuse.

“We are here to support you and your family and I want you to know that if you are suffering, we will do everything we can to help you and to protect you.

“We can meet you where you feel most comfortable and our officers can come in plain clothes and unmarked cars.

“It can take an incredible amount of courage and bravery to come forward and report any kind of abuse, but please know that we are here to listen to you and do everything we can to help you.”

Call South Yorkshire Police on 101.