The growing emergence of deepfakes and AI were discussed at this year’s Domestic Abuse Conference, organised by Morecrofts Solicitors.

More than 100 delegates attended the sold-out event at Liverpool’s Hilton Hotel, where they heard from experts working in a range of sectors, who encounter domestic abuse in their professional roles.

Among those was Djenne Kamara, tech abuse specialist from Refuge Charity, who talked about how the continued enhancement of AI and deepfake technology is being used to control and manipulate victims of abusive relationships.

Former social worker and trainer Jaci Quennell spoke about the adultification of children within abusive families and about coercive control in the workplace, while Dr Ged Smith, a consultant systemic psychotherapist, explored the role of masculinity in domestic abuse.

Consultant forensic psychologist Dr Keri Nixon discussed the domestic abuse risk assessment she devised for Merseyside Police, which is still in use today, and she was joined by Detective Superintendent Sabi Kaur MBE, who shared her story of honour-based abuse.

Domestic Abuse operations manager at Torus, Kayleigh Archbold and domestic abuse team leader Jill Ellis, updated delegates on the housing company’s approach to abuse and steps they take to tackle perpetrators.

Morecrofts partner Jo-anne Lomax, who hosted the event, said: “We founded the Domestic Abuse Conference 10 years ago and it is the largest conference of its kind in the Liverpool City Region.

“Every year, we draw delegates from across the spectrum of agencies and professional roles, including police officers, NHS staff, social workers, lawyers, local government, educational institutions, CAFCASS and housing organisations, all of whom see the malign effects that domestic abuse has on families and communities.

“By sharing our experiences and best practice, both at the conference and in the weeks and months beyond through the connections we forge on the day, we can work together to tackle the scourge of domestic abuse.”

The date of next year’s Domestic Abuse Conference will be announced in the near future. For information, please contact Millie Greenop mmg@morecrofts.co.uk.