A campaign is underway across Monmouthshire county borough as part of a larger all Gwent initiative to prevent alcohol related crime and disorder during the World Cup.
Gwent Police and Monmouthshire County Borough Council will be working together to tackle a range of issues over the coming weeks with domestic abuse, anti-social behaviour and public order being key priorities.
Officers are contacting all licensees in the area ahead of the first match on Saturday 12th June to remind them of their role in serving alcohol responsibly. Licensees are also being encouraged to check that their CCTV systems are working correctly.
Posters about domestic abuse are also being put up in all Monmouthshire pubs to encourage people who suffer from domestic abuse to call the Wales Domestic Abuse Helpline.
Local officers will also be providing an increased presence in the town centres to deter any crime and disorder on England match days. Mobile police vans will also be in the town centres and will be available to react immediately should any incidents take place.
Monmouthshire County Borough Council’s CCTV operators will also be working around the clock to monitor the town centres and look out for any incidents of disorder.
Police Constable Vicki Townsend who has co-ordinated the operation explained, “We want people to enjoy the World Cup matches, but to act responsibly when they are out in local pubs and clubs. The majority of people are well behaved and we are working with our partners and the licensing trade to prevent those individuals who drink too much, from going on to cause disorder in our town centres.”
PC Townsend added, “We are putting in a series of measures to help ensure that the forthcoming World Cup is a safe and enjoyable one for all concerned.”
Rachel Allen, Domestic Violence Co-ordinator said, “Around one in four people in the UK will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime. In 2009 over 1000 women contacted Women’s aid for help.
“It has been identified in nearly 50% of domestic violence assaults, alcohol is a contributing factor. Past research has shown that incidents or domestic abuse increase during large sporting events such as the football World Cup as people tend to drink more.”
“We hope that by raising awareness of domestic abuse and working collaboratively with statutory and third sector agencies, we can let people know that help is available and hopefully this will encourage victims to report abuse and seek the help and support they need.”
If you or someone you know is suffering domestic abuse, call the Wales Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 8010 800 for free help, advice and support. To report any crime, please call 999 in an emergency or if it’s less urgent 101.
