Sexual violence prevention focus of uni conference

Bournemouth University’s Sexual Violence Research group will host a conference looking at ways to tackle crime

A university is hosting its first conference to explore how to help prevent sexual violence.

Bournemouth University will be bringing together academics and practitioners from across the UK to discuss their latest research into how to tackle crime.

The conference will look at how sexual violence is investigated and understanding victims and supporting their wellbeing.

Dr Sarah Hambidge, lecturer in psychology at the university, said the conference was a "chance to explore the causes of sexual violence and how to prevent it”.

Dr Kari Davies, principal lecturer in psychology at the university set up the Sexual Violence Research Group in 2022.

It brings together people conducting research into the causes and context, and prevention of sexual violence in a range of different settings.

They aim to share their findings and discuss solutions and best practices.

Bournemouth University currently has about 30 students and staff from all four faculties researching this subject.

The conference will also be attended by police officers and victim support charities including Acts Fasts, Justice and Care and Stars.

Dr Hambidge said: “Despite a large number of high-profile cases and repeated pledges about tackling the issue, sexual violence continues to devastate people’s lives."

Dr Davies and Dr Hambidge say they hope it will become an annual conference.

The event is being held on 28 and 29 October.