THE county council is working to highlight its services dealing with domestic abuse with the World Cup starting.

With the World Cup underway, the services commissioned by Hampshire County Council to deal with domestic abuse in the county is looking to draw attention to the support on offer to those affected

Councillor Patricia Stallard, Hampshire County Council’s executive member for public health, said: “Statistics show that the increased alcohol consumption linked to major sporting events leads to an increase in admissions to hospital through accidents or violence, including domestic abuse incidents. Promoting the Domestic Abuse Service Helpline across Hampshire is vitally important in reaching out to those who are vulnerable, particularly at World Cup time. Nobody should have to experience abuse and we hope that this will encourage those affected to seek help by ringing the confidential Hampshire Domestic Abuse Helpline on 03300 165 112.”

This helpline provides help to women, men, young people and children experiencing any form of domestic abuse, not just physical abuse. The service, which is delivered by The YOU Trust and Southern Domestic Abuse Service (SDAS), provides a comprehensive service including refuge, as well as community support for those suffering from the effects of domestic abuse. It also works alongside partners, such as Hampshire Constabulary, to intervene in domestic violence and abuse incidents.

Further information on the support available, can be found at hants.gov.uk/socialcareandhealth/adultsocialcare/domesticabuse and hants.gov.uk/socialcareandhealth/adultsocialcare/alcohol.

Free confidential support around drinking is also available by calling the Hampshire Alcohol Helpline on 0300 303 3539.