A new report by the Soroptimists UK, which found that urgent improvements are needed to Special Domestic Abuse Courts if they are to provide the intended protection and support to victims of domestic abuse. The report by the was one of the subjects discussed at the Violence Against Women and Girls: Social Justice in Action conference, organised and hosted by the Soroptimist Bournemouth Club and BU’s Centre for Seldom Heard Voices on 29th June.

At the conference, the Soroptimists explained their recommendations detailed in their report to address these systemic flaws. The conference included talks and workshops from Dr Liz Dominey from the Soroptimists Bournemouth Club; Sarbjit Athwal, founder of charity True Honour; BU’s Chancellor, Kate Adie CBE; Paula Harriott, Head of Prisoner Engagement at the Prison Reform Trust; Jamie Fletcher and three of his students; Dr Kari Davies; and Dr Louise Oliver and Hannah Gurr. It was also supported by Tina Symington, Community Safety Manager, Housing & Communities Directorate BCP.

Dr Harvey said, “the feedback from the conference was incredibly positive. The Soroptimists and university team are looking to create network of local professionals to work together to continue the collaboration”.

Find out more, here: https://www.bournemouth.ac.uk/news/2023-07-03/conference-seeks-social-justice-tackle-violence-against-women-girls