A CAMPAIGN is being launched to try to prevent an increase in domestic abuse during the Fifa World Cup 2022 and into the Christmas period.

The Braintree District Community Safety Partnership is made up of organisations including Braintree Council, Essex Police and social housing providers such as Eastlight, the Peabody Trust and Havebury Housing Partnership.

Football tournaments such as the World Cup and the Christmas season often see a spike in domestic abuse incidents which can be due to increased drinking.

The campaign is aiming to target perpetrators of domestic abuse in the hope they will look at their drinking and behaviour by seeking help from the Change Project.

The Change Project aims to break the cycle of domestic abuse by getting perpetrators to realise their abusive behaviour and make a change to prevent it in the future.

Braintree Council communities boss Frankie Ricci said: “While many of us are excited about the World Cup, unfortunately, there is a link between increased incidents of domestic abuse when England play.

“It can be a terrifying time for victims, therefore it’s important to raise awareness of domestic abuse and make perpetrators reconsider their behaviour and seek help.”

Victims of domestic abuse can seek help through the Essex Compass Project at essexcompass.org.uk or by calling 0330 333 7444.

If you want to seek help for violent or abusive behaviour via the Change Project visit thechange-project.org or call 0845 372 7701.