COMMUNITY safety camapigners are urging people to kick domestic violence into touch during the World Cup.

Research indicates that during major sporting events incidents of domestic abuse increase, because people drink more.

As the football World Cup gets into full swing in South Africa, the East and Mid Devon Community Safety Partnership wishes to highlight the issue and the message is: “This type of behaviour is unacceptable.”

During the last World Cup in 2006, reports of domestic abuse made to Devon and Cornwall Police rose by 73 per cent during England match days.

Such abuse accounts for about a third of all violent crime reported to police nationally and it is believed that many more cases go unreported.

Gerry Moore, the Community Safety Officer for East Devon, said: “During the World Cup most people will be having a good time and behaving responsibly but some behave in an abusive way which causes distress to their partners and immediate family.

“Firstly, we want the abuse to stop but also we want to let people know that help is available for those who suffer from the abuse or for anyone wishing to get confidential help and advice.”

If you are in immediate danger, or you know of someone else who is, due to domestic abuse call the police immediately on 999.

Anyone in Exeter, East and Mid Devon who is not in immediate danger, but who would like to speak to someone urgently, should call 01392 667144 or the free local helpline on 0800 328 3070. These confidential telephone helpline numbers are unique in that they are staffed 24 hours a day so you will always be able to speak to someone rather than to a voicemail. They are run by Stop Abuse for Everyone, formerly Exeter Women’s Aid.

For advice on safe drinking contact Devon Alcohol Services on 08451 302605