A senior figure in the Reform UK party has sparked widespread outrage with a flippant claim that England's football team must win World Cup matches to prevent domestic abuse incidents, suggesting that losing teams are somehow linked to an increase in such crimes. Sarah Pochin, the MP for Runcorn and Helsby, made this contentious assertion on social media after England's victory over Croatia, sparking accusations of irresponsibility from prominent charities.
In a video shared online, Ms Pochin stated: “England won the football last night, and thank goodness they did. Because on the occasions that England lose their football matches, the incidences of domestic violence go through the roof. So boys, keep winning.” Her remarks drew swift criticism from Women's Aid, which described them as "irresponsible", with Chief Executive Farah Nazeer pointing out that research shows a rise in domestic abuse during championships occurs regardless of the team's performance.
Ms Nazeer clarified: “Football does not cause domestic abuse – it is a choice that is made by the abuser, time and again, regardless of whether a team wins or loses a match.” Refuge, another leading charity, echoed these concerns, calling Ms Pochin’s social media post "highly inappropriate" and "misleading". A spokesperson for the charity highlighted: “Football is never an excuse for domestic abuse, and perpetrators cannot continue to be shielded by the myth that football directly causes abuse”.
Politicians across party lines also condemned the Reform MP's comments. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson responded directly, stating bluntly: “Men should not beat up women. Full stop. No excuses.” This controversy comes as Reform UK faces scrutiny over previous social media comments made by its candidates, including Robert Kenyon, who was dismissed for his past remarks by party leader Nigel Farage.
Despite this, the party has pledged to introduce a "Women and Motherhood Protection Act" if it comes to power, aiming to strengthen protections for pregnant women and new mothers. However, Reform UK has yet to comment on Ms Pochin's specific remarks.