Three Nottinghamshire White Ribbon Accredited organisations come together to raise awareness of domestic violence against women and girls

With the European Championships getting underway this weekend, and ahead of England's first game tomorrow, three White Ribbon Accredited organisations in Nottinghamshire have chosen to raise awareness of domestic violence against women and girls. Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, Broxtowe Women's Project and Nottinghamshire Football Association are working to end violence against women and girls.

Statistics show that there is an increase in this behaviour during major football tournaments. 

Broxtowe Women's Project Partnerships Manager, Chris Harris, said “Broxtowe Women’s Project are pleased to work alongside our White Ribbon Accredited partners to raise awareness about Women’s safety all year round. As the Euro Football Tournament starts, please feel able to reach out for support if needed, sport is not a reason for abuse.”

According to the White Ribbon Euro 2024 Fixture List:

• Over 63% of people reported experiencing sexist online abuse because of football. (Her Game Too, 2021)
• Reports of sexist mass chanting quadrupled at the end of 2023. (Kick It Out, 2023)
• Almost 60% of women said they experienced sexist abuse in person at a football game or in a pub. (Her Game Too, 2021)
• The NSPCC Helpline calls increased by a third following a major football tournament. (NSPCC, 2022)
• Sexist and misogynistic online abuse has increased towards female players and supporters. (Kick It Out, 2023)

Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service Area Manager, Andy Macey, said “Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service stands against violence towards women and girls, and statistics show that major football tournaments see an increase in this behaviour.

“All fire stations across Nottinghamshire are safe spaces for people fleeing unsafe environments. If you’re in Nottingham and you see one of our fire engines with ‘safer streets’ branding, know that our crews will help you. We’re here to keep everyone safe.

“Please always ring 999 in an emergency.”

We know that football is a sport that brings individuals together and we recognise the importance of using our platform to help raise awareness, educate, and signpost those who may need support.

To ensure that we can play our part to end violence against women and girls we come together with BWP & Nottinghamshire Fire & Rescue to share this message ahead of the Euro 2024 tournament to ensure that together we can create an enjoyable and safe culture within our game for women and girls across Nottinghamshire.

If you need support, you can contact the 24-hour national domestic abuse helpline by calling 0808 2000 247.