AS football supporters across Essex prepare to follow England and the world’s biggest stars during the FIFA World Cup 2026, the Essex County FA are proud to support a series of important campaigns being delivered by Essex Police and partner organisations to help keep communities safe throughout the tournament.
Major festivals bring people together through a shared enthusiasm for the game, creating memorable moments for families, friends and communities. They also provide a chance to raise awareness of wider social issues which can affect people during and beyond the tournament. Essex Police and their partners are using the World Cup as a platform to encourage positive behaviour, challenge harmful attitudes and ensure support is available for those who need it.
The County FA are encouraging football clubs, leagues, facilities and other grassroots football organisations to get involved by promoting Essex Police’s campaigns within their own venues and communities. Essex Police have produced a range of free promotional resources, including digital graphics and campaign materials, which can be displayed in clubhouses, changing rooms, social media channels and matchday environments.
By sharing these messages of social value, clubs can play an important role in helping supporters, players, volunteers and visitors to access information, recognise the signs of abuse and know where to find support if it is needed.
One of the key campaigns being highlighted this summer is #AbuseOffside, which aims to raise awareness of the link between major football tournaments and increases in domestic abuse incidents. Research has shown that domestic abuse can rise during major football competitions, making it vital that victims, survivors and those concerned about someone else know where to find help and support.
The Essex County FA also support the ‘Reflect’ campaign, which encourages people to take responsibility for their behaviour and seek support before harmful actions escalate. The campaign promotes positive behaviour change and signposts individuals towards specialist services available across Essex.
Football can unite communities and create positive change. Everyone should be able to enjoy the game in a safe, welcoming and respectful environment. Clubs, leagues, players, coaches, volunteers and supporters are encouraged to help promote these important messages throughout the World Cup. Essex Police’s materials can be used online and in football settings to help maximise awareness and ensure key support messages reach as many people as possible.
Chris Evans, Essex County FA Communications and Partnerships Manager, says they are proudly backing the campaigns which promote safe, inclusive and welcoming environments for all: “Football has a unique ability to bring people together, and we’re looking forward to seeing communities across Essex enjoy the excitement of the World Cup this summer.”
“We encourage everyone to support their teams positively, celebrate responsibly and look out for one another while enjoying the tournament. The Essex County FA are proud to support Essex Police in promoting safe, inclusive and welcoming environments for all. Whether watching at home, in clubs, pubs or community venues, we want everyone to enjoy the competition while showing respect for others and helping to keep our communities safe.”
Essex Police Chief Superintendent, Simon Anslow, added: “The vast majority of people watching the World Cup at licenced premises in Essex this summer are there for the football – we know they’re there to have a good time, not there to cause trouble. We also know that more people than usual will be out thanks to the good weather, so venues will be busier.”
“Put alcohol, football and sunshine in a larger crowd than usual and it can mean an increase in the risk of public disorder and violence – and we’ll be there to tackle that. More than anything else, we are asking the public to watch and celebrate the tournament safely. If you use the event to take part in disorder or commit crime, we will take action. We will have appropriate policing plans in place on each England matchday, no matter what route we take to the final.”
“That means officers will be in town and city centres across the county to quickly respond to emergency calls, either at venues or in homes; it means there will be more officers on the roads ready to respond to reports of drink and drug driving. We’re also working with licenced premises across the county who are supporting our work in their businesses and are aware of their responsibilities throughout the next month.”
Together, we can ensure that the World Cup is remembered for the right reasons – celebrating football while looking out for one another and helping to create safer communities across Essex. For more information about Essex Police’s World Cup 2026 campaigns and the support services which are available, please visit www.essexfa.com and follow the Essex County FA on social media.
