New research suggests half of all domestic abuse survivors may be living with a brain injury, as revealed at a conference in Harlow.

The groundbreaking study was revealed by Stephanie Bechelet, a researcher from Brainkind, at an event on Friday, March 8.

The event, titled 'Creating a Safer Place for Survivors of Domestic Abuse', saw colleagues from across the Essex domestic abuse sector gather to discuss innovative ways to tackle the issue.

The conference, organised by Safer Places domestic abuse services, coincided with International Women’s Day and championed the needs of adult and child survivors.

Janet Dalrymple, CEO of Safer Places domestic abuse services, said: "Too often, the momentum behind calls for change can run out of steam.

"Something awful happens, people call for change, and then it can be forgotten.

"With this conference and the work we do on a day-to-day basis, we’re creating the groundwork necessary to ensure survivors are never forgotten.

"We are always striving for a world without domestic abuse, and coming together as a community to brainstorm and discuss is vital to making that change happen."

The primary presenter, Brainkind researcher Stephanie Bechelet, discussed her latest study on brain injuries among abuse survivors, suggesting that half may have sustained such injuries.

Guests also included Safer Places personnel, Janet Dalrymple, Alek Tokarz-Tyler, and April Irons.

A panel discussion featured Stephanie Bechelet alongside women's safety consultant Karen Whybro, chair of DA Forum at Changing Pathways Ranjit Sindhar, and West Essex Safeguarding Adults representative Róisín Gavin.

Stephanie Bechelet said: "It's been a great event.

"It's been wonderful to have so many different professionals in the room, showing real multi agency working across all of Essex.

"There’s been such a desire and a commitment from everyone to engage with some really complicated issues."