AS TEMPERS flare and emotions run high during the World Cup, a new campaign has been launched in Hampshire to raise awareness of domestic abuse.

#RaiseaFlag aims to help young people recognise the signs of an unhealthy relationship.

Initially created by the county’s Youth Commission, the campaign was officially launched by police and crime commissioner Michael Lane, who raised a flag at the joint Police and Fire Headquarters in Eastleigh on the day of England’s first World Cup match.

Research has shown that incidents of domestic abuse rise when England play during World Cup - by as much as 38 per cent when the Three Lions win.

Throughout the tournament the campaign flag will be raised on flagpoles across the county to draw attention to the issue.

Hampshire Constabulary has also launched a specialist team of officers to deal with domestic abuse during the World Cup.

Mr Lane, said: “It is sad that major sports competitions like the World Cup can cause a rise in domestic abuse, but the evidence indicates we should be prepared. I hope that the RaiseaFlag campaign will encourage people to be alert to the signs of domestic abuse and unhealthy relationships in their communities.”

The campaign is being supported by public sector partners, youth organisations and football clubs.

Chief Inspector Mike Haines and Hampshire Fire and Rescue area manager Tom Simms joined Mr Lane and youth commission members, Casey and Ryan at the first flag raising.

Youth Commission member, Julia aged 17 from Havant said: “We have created the RaiseaFlag campaign because young people have told us that they think more needs to be done to raise awareness of the signs of an unhealthy relationship.

“In an unhealthy relationship there is often one person who wants to control the other – this can be through physical, verbal or emotional harm. We want anyone who is in a relationship that leaves them feeling uncomfortable, sad or afraid to be able to recognise the red flags of an unhealthy relationship and to access the help they need.”

Anyone who has been affected by domestic abuse, or any crime, can contact the Victim Care Service on 0808 178 1641. The Victim Care Service has specialist case workers providing tailored support for victims of Domestic Abuse.