A conference giving people tips on how to spot and stop domestic abuse was held yesterday.

More than 160 professionals and volunteers from Borehamwood and Potters Bar attended the event at Hertsmere Borough Council’s civic offices in Elstree Way, hosted by Welwyn Hatfield and the St Albans & Hertsmere Domestic Abuse Forums.

The day included talks on the impact of violence on the brains of babies and on older children, the role of the play worker with children in women's refuges, the work of children’s services and children's centres on domestic abuse and work on child sexual exploitation.

Hertsmere borough councillor Charles Goldstein said: "These events provide a valuable opportunity for professionals and volunteers to network, share best practice and hear about new research.

"The themes that have been explored reflect the complexities associated with domestic violence, but thankfully there is a wide range of expertise on hand in Hertfordshire to support victims and tackle perpetrators."

The event was also attended by Hertfordshire police and crime commissioner David Lloyd.

Penny Williams, chairman of St Albans & Hertsmere Domestic Abuse Forum, said: "Our aim is to shine a light on the many hidden victims of domestic abuse.

"This is the tenth annual conference that the two forums have organised, with the aim of expanding the knowledge of domestic abuse amongst statutoy and voluntary organisations, so that they can better help people coming to them for support."

Hertsmere Borough Council, St Albans District Council and Welwyn Hatfield Council all provided either funding or support for the event, which was opened by Mr Lloyd.