Abuse doesn’t end when the final whistle blows at the Euro’s. In the UK, football clubs make up just 12% of all sports clubs, but this isn’t just about football, it is about all sports. Each one has potential links to sexual violence and domestic abuse, affecting children and adults of any gender.
Our campaign, “They Think It’s All Over”, is here to highlight the dark corners of sports where abuse is hidden. We believe that more research needs to be conducted into the relationship between sexual violence, domestic abuse, and sports. We need to understand the full scope of the problem to tackle it effectively.
There are 151,000 sports clubs in the UK, from professional leagues to grassroots clubs, we’re calling for better safeguarding measures to protect players, fan bases, supporter, followers, friends and families.
No one should fear abuse when they step onto the pitch, the court, or the field.
Over the course of our campaign, we’ll be sharing statistics and stories from a range of sports, highlighting that this issue is not confined to one sport. We want to show the world that abuse in and outside of sports is a widespread problem that needs urgent attention as part of a societal change.
Here’s how you can get involved:
Spread the Word
Share our campaign with your friends, family, and local sports clubs to advocate for safe environments that stand against abuse and enable people disclose any abuse in a safe and inclusive environment using hashtag #TheyThinkItsAllOver.
Support the Research
We’re advocating for more research into the relationship between sexual violence, domestic abuse, and sports.
Promote Safe Sports
Advocate for better safeguarding measures in your local sports clubs. From professional leagues to grassroots clubs.
Stay Informed
Over the course of our campaign, we’ll be sharing statistics and stories from a range of sports.
Follow us to stay updated and learn more about the extent of the problem.
Facebook: @FirstLightSW
Twitter: @FirstLightSW
Linkedin: @First Light Southwest
Instagram: @FirstLight.SW
Remember, change starts with you.
Join us, because sports shouldn’t come with abuse.
