York City FC Foundation has taken a stand with domestic abuse charity IDAS to help raise awareness of domestic abuse and encourage communities to “show domestic abuse the red card” during the World Cup and long after the tournament has finished.
IDAS (Independent Domestic Abuse Services) began in York almost 50 years ago, providing emergency accommodation to people subjected to domestic abuse. Since then, they have expanded across North and South Yorkshire. Serving communities through emotional and practical support for people impacted by domestic abuse and sexual violence. IDAS is the largest specialist in the North, in 2025 alone they responded to nearly 30,000 calls to their helpline.
Football tournaments often bring increased attention to domestic abuse, with some support organisations and police forces reporting rises in incidents and demand for services during these periods. IDAS is using the increased public attention on domestic abuse during the World Cup to encourage sustained support, greater awareness, and collective action from the football community long after the final whistle.
As part of the campaign, York City FC Foundation have participated in a video promoting the message that everyone has a role to play in supporting survivors and challenging abusive behaviour. Along with sharing additional content throughout the tournament to ensure that survivors of domestic abuse know where to turn to if they need it.
Paula Stainton, Chief Executive of York City FC Foundation said:
“Football should unite, not create fear. The World Cup is a celebration of skill, passion, and community — a time when people from all walks of life come together to support and share in the joy of the game. Unfortunately, for too many, these moments of national pride can also become times of fear, isolation, and danger. We must remember that no match, no score, and no rivalry can ever justify abuse. There is no excuse for violence, on or off the pitch. As fans, friends, families, and communities, we have a responsibility to look out for one another, to speak up when we see harm, and to ensure that respect, safety, and kindness are the true winners of every game.
We are delighted to partner with IDAS, an incredible organisation providing vital support to survivors of abuse across York and the wider Yorkshire area, and to support this campaign – advocating to show domestic abuse the red card to create a safer, stronger, more connected community.”
Carmel Offord, Engagement Manager at IDAS said:
“We are delighted to have York City FC Foundation standing alongside us during our World Cup campaign. We greatly admire the fantastic work they do across York’s communities. This partnership will help us reach more people who might not otherwise know that support is available. We are grateful for their support.”
The campaign includes a free supporter pack designed to help people feel more confident supporting someone impacted by domestic abuse. The pack is available to download from the IDAS website, as well as two posters that people can put up in public spaces during the World Cup.
You can find out more about the campaign by following IDAS on social media @IDASFOR100 and find the supporter pack online: https://idas.org.uk/worldcup2026/
