Slough Borough Council’s drug and alcohol action team (DAAT), along with Berkshire East, will be giving domestic violence the red card on the run up to the first Euro 2008 semi-final.
Research has shown that alcohol consumption rises during large-scale sporting events, and estimates more than 45 percent of perpetrators assault their partners under the influence of alcohol.
To help stop the violence happening, the Slough DAAT team will be handing out 5000 packs to the public, from June 27th, containing information on safer drinking, sexual health, stopping smoking and drugs, as well as contact details for domestic abuse victims.
Sophie Crowe, Berkshire East domestic abuse co-ordinator, said: “There are a number of local agencies who can support victims of domestic abuse such as East Berkshire Women’s Aid or Victim Support.
“There is also support through the Changing Ways Programme for men who are, or have been, violent and abusive towards their female partners.
“If an abuser is alcohol/drug dependent, it is important that this is treated in tandem with addressing the abusive behaviour. Addressing only one without the other is unlikely to prove successful.”
Commissioner for neighbourhoods and renewal, Slough Cllr James Swindlehurst, added: “We picked Euro 2008 to launch this latest safer drinking campaign as this potentially will be a time when people are drinking more. We want people to enjoy themselves and the packs provide everything they need to stay safe and look after each other.
“The message is simple. Enjoy the football, but don’t drink too excess. It can lead to violence and fighting, either in the streets or towards your partner at home.”
For more information or help, call FRANK on 0800 77 66 00 or National Domestic Violence Helpline, 0808 2000 247.
Slough Borough Council
