World Cup 2026 – What schools need to consider to safeguard pupils during this summer’s tournament

With a summer of football just around the corner in June and July, we should explore how the football could potentially affect pupils in schools. Perhaps more importantly, how schools will need to adapt safeguarding practices to ensure everyone is safe to enjoy the beautiful game. Here is a summary of some issues that schools may face and how school staff can take action to safeguard children, young people and families.

While football itself does not cause domestic abuse, existing abuse can intensify around tournaments such as the World Cup. Research by Lancaster University in 2024 (during the Euros tournament) showed cases of domestic abuse increased by 38% when England lost a match and 26% when they won or drew. With the upcoming tournament being held in the USA and Mexico, the times of the games are late in the evening UK-time meaning a change in routine to some households, which is not necessarily a safeguarding concern. However, factors such as tiredness from late nights, intense emotions and substance misuse can play a part in the dangers faced by children in some homes.

A major issue brought to the headlines in 2020 was the increase in racism and discrimination when several England players were targeted with racial abuse online. Along with racially abusive language, some players were sent derogatory emojis following England’s loss in the final to Italy after they had missed their penalty kicks. Schools should acknowledge that some pupils may be exposed to racist or derogatory language at home, particularly during football matches where people’s inhibitions may be lowered.

Alcohol is one of the main substances people associate with football. This includes its use before, during and after matches and the risk profile is more complex than just intoxication alone. School staff should be aware that a lack of access to alcohol can also be equally problematic for some people. The anxiety and agitation caused to some people by alcohol dependency can create a dangerous environment where even minor stressors become trigger points for aggression.

Schools can support pupils and families this summer by:

• Remaining professionally curious and looking for changes in behaviour. Why does that child have a jumper on in the heat? What is making them unsettled just before home time? Why are they avoiding talking about home? Why are they tired and lethargic? In an unpredictable home environment, they may experience extreme hyper-vigilance whilst anticipating a parent’s reaction to a goal or a loss. Observe non-verbal cues and reassure them that the situation is not their fault.

• Building relationships with local housing authorities or associations, many of which have safeguarding or community safety leads. Abri, one of the largest housing association in the UK with over 55,000 homes across the South of England have recently published their own guidance for families in their homes who may be experiencing domestic abuse. They are also launching their own campaign for awareness during the World Cup. More information can be found here: Support for people experiencing domestic abuse in our homes.

• Being aware of your local neighbourhood policing team, youth organisations and even management staff of pubs and entertainment venues. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility and by staff making connections, safeguarding concerns are more likely to be reported.

• Looking at local and national domestic abuse campaigns and charities to signpost families to. Many have discreet ways to contact them, and schools can support by allowing families who need a safe space to be able to make a phone call to do so on their premises. Have information in staff rooms and parent newsletters. You can also share information about the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (Clare’s Law), which allows individuals to find out if a partner has a history of domestic abuse.

• Talking openly about what behaviour is and is not acceptable, to allow pupils to identify risks. Adults throwing things in frustration, being verbally abusive and using their actions to frighten someone are all ways in which children could experience abuse in their homes. Support them to be able to identify and report things that are happening that make them feel unsafe, even if it not physical violence.

• Paying close attention to language being used in the classroom, playground and wider school environment. Is it harmless football banter or has discriminatory language been brought in? Ensure young people know the consequence of what they send in messages and post online. Talk honestly about racism and homophobia being hate crimes and look at the sanctions for committing such crimes. While football can be frustrating, there is no room for hate.

• Looking for patterns in attendance and decide if there is a safeguarding concern. All concerns should be addressed promptly if schools feel that the tournament is playing a part in why children are not attending. Is it because they are tired or is it a more serious issue of abuse or neglect?

• Acknowledging that abuse in the home can include coercive control and financial surveillance. Look for unusual anxiety or timid body language during school drop-off or pick-up by parents, particularly following a match.

• Being vigilant for signs of alcohol and drug consumption. If staff suspect a parent or carer is intoxicated, they should act immediately, particularly if they believe the parent or carer has driven. Schools should have a policy for children who are not collected from school or clubs and be confident to challenge parents if they believe they are under the influence.

• Looking at what else might be happening and if circumstances may have changed for the family. Provide a quiet, non-judgmental space for pupils or families to talk. Practical support such as breakfast clubs or after school clubs could be vital for some families.

• Using Operation Encompass, the statutory processes for police forces to notify schools (before the start of the next school day) if they have attended a domestic abuse incident where a child was present.

For most of our pupils, major football tournaments are a time of excitement, unity and national pride. However, it is important to remember that for some children and families the risk level in their homes will rise and potentially be escalated by what is happening on the pitch. As safeguarding professionals, we need to be prepared and ready to support them, whatever the result.

About the author: Melissa Pollard is a Designated Safeguarding Lead with 20 years experience in education and children's mental health.