From the Editor… (17/07/2026)

As I sit writing this, Argentina have just beaten England in the World Cup quarter-finals.

It’s certainly disappointing for the country, however there’s always next time! You may be able to tell I’m not an avid football fan, but each to their own – the passion that people have for football and their teams is certainly unmatched.

Something you may have read in our previous issue was Clare Moody’s column, as Avon and Somerset’s Police and Crime Commissioner. She raised the important point of domestic violence, and the significant increase in incidents that are reported following losses at football events.

The figures are quite horrific – research found that domestic abuse incidents rose 38% when England lost in the past three World Cup tournaments.

We all have to face the fact that England losing against Argentina will have meant that people suffered on Wednesday night. It’s completely unacceptable, and the majority of it will go unreported. Anything we can do to stop this gets our full support. Domestic violence ruins lives – not just those who suffer from the violence, but also loved ones who either can’t stand up against it through fear for themselves or are affected long-term by losing someone they love when it goes too far.

As Clare rightly said, for victims of domestic abuse, whether female or male, it’s not their fault. It’s not the fault of England winning or losing, and it’s not the fault of alcohol and heightened emotions. Nothing justifies violence at home or elsewhere.

I would highly encourage anyone who is a victim of domestic abuse to get in contact with the support organisations out there. There are a range of services funded across the region, with free and accessible support offered to those who need it. In Bath, Southside, based in Twerton, provide targeted and specialist help. Whether it’s physical violence, coercive control or intimidation, there are teams on hand for victims.

It may seem like a scary prospect to try and get help. What if the person causing you harm finds out? Southside offers an initial triage, risk assessment and advice on the services and choices available to victims. If you are at risk of immediate harm, you should get in touch with Avon and Somerset Police by dialling 999 – more information on what you can do if you can’t speak on the phone is available on the Southside website at https://bit.ly/4ynS1Bd.

Alternatively, you can contact the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247, which offers free 24/7 advice.