GLOUCESTERSHIRE Police's month-long stay safe summer sport campaign this week focuses on domestic abuse.

England’s first match in this year’s World Cup is next Saturday, June 14 and research shows that levels of reported incidents of domestic violence increase by over a quarter when England take part in a major international football tournament, with those numbers affected by whether England win or lose.

Domestic Abuse and Domestic Violence Strategic Co-ordinator Faye Kamara said: “On average the victim of domestic abuse has been abused 35 times before they contact the police, which is a shocking statistic.

“Our intention this week is to highlight and educate the public on this issue which is especially pertinent as we get closer to a major international tournament where England are participating.

"My colleagues and I will be on hand to offer support, advice and information for anyone who maybe a victim themselves or may know someone who they think could be at risk of domestic abuse.”

Domestic abuse is one of four topics that Gloucestershire Police aim to highlight throughout the campaign which runs from Monday June 9 to Monday July 14. The other three are drink driving, assault and anti-social behaviour.

This Friday, June 13 the first summer sport Stay Safe Roadshow event takes place at Tesco Extra in Cirencester between 10am and 3pm.

The Gloucestershire Police and Crime Commissioner’s Neighbourhood Engagement Vehicle will be in the car park where Police Officers, PCSOs and staff will be on hand to offer advice and information on domestic abuse.