A conference is being held to shine a light on the hidden victims of domestic abuse.

More than 100 health professionals and members of the voluntary sector gathered in Hertsmere Borough Council's Civic Offices in Borehamwood today to discuss themes associated with domestic violence. 

The event includes sessions on housing options for victims, how non-violent offences of domestic abuse can be dealt with, financial abuse of older people and the victimisation of the mentally ill or disabled. 

Leader of Hertsmere Borough Council Morris Bright said the event was an ideal way for professionals and volunteers to network and “share best practice”.

He added: "The many themes explored during this conference really reflect the complexities associated with domestic violence, but also the wide range of expertise we have on hand both in Hertfordshire and nationally to support victims and tackle perpetrators.”

The conference has been coordinated by two separate domestic violence fora - the Welwyn Hatfield Domestic Violence Forum and the St Albans & Hertsmere Domestic Violence Forum.

Penny Williams, who chairs the St Albans and Hertsmere Domestic Violence Forum, said this was the eighth annual concert the fora had put on

She added: "Our aim is to shine a light on the many hidden victims of domestic abuse and expand the knowledge of domestic abuse amongst statutory and voluntary organisations so they can better help people coming to them for support and share their experiences."

St Albans City and District Council, Welwyn Hatfield Council and Hertsmere Borough Council all provided either funding or support for the event. 

The event was opened by the Chief Executive of Hertsmere Borough Council, Donald Graham.

The event was co-ordinated by two separate domestic violence fora - the Welwyn Hatfield Domestic Violence Forum and the St Albans & Hertsmere Domestic Violence Forum.