World Cup – domestic violence plea
By Andy Pearson
A LEADING Swansea expert in matrimonial law has urged Welsh couples to take a considerate approach to their World Cup experiences.
She wishes to see the country avoid an upturn in domestic violence which could be fuelled by the predicted large rise in alcohol consumption.
With the world’s biggest soccer tournament just started, solicitor Sara Plant says that fans who plan to be glued to their lager cans, wine bottles and TV sets – or making extra visits to the pub – should plan carefully to ease stresses around the house.
Ms Plant, a partner in SA1-based legal firm Peter Lynn and Partners, said: “Alcohol will play a significant role in people watching the World Cup and, in my experience, alcohol is a key factor in domestic violence.
“A lot of people, including those not in the habit of drinking regularly, are likely to increase their alcohol consumption during the World Cup; it follows that there will be more stresses, strains and violence around the home.
“I urge couples to consider such facts carefully and to agree some common sense measures very early on in the tournament. These could include drinking sensibly, planning quality family time away from the football and arranging treats for the family’s non football fans.
“Simple measures like that could considerably ease the threat of domestic violence between now and next month’s World Cup Final.”
Sara Plant has worked closely with Women’s Aid and the Domestic Abuse Forum.
She qualified as a solicitor in 1993 and took up a partnership at Peter Lynn and Partners in 2000.
Ms Plant specialises in matrimonial and family law, including divorce and relationship breakdown.
Her team can advise in all areas of matrimonial law, including domestic violence, divorce, financial release, property issues, cohabitation disputes, civil partnership, residency and contact with children.
Tags: alcohol, domestic violence, Peter Lynn, Peter Lynn & Partners, Sara Plant, World Cup
