Over 140 people attended Truro Cathedral to take part in the annual safeguarding conference which this year focused on domestic violence and the myths surrounding it.

The one-day event, which included stands by local domestic abuse support agencies, was supported by a ten-day exhibition featuring survivors art.

Dr Maryyum Mehmood, Research and Policy Advisor (Spiritual Abuse Lead) to the Domestic Abuse Commissioner of England and Wales, was keynote speaker. Talking to the safeguarding team afterward the conference, Maryyum said: “Thank you for arranging such a fantastic conference. It was a pleasure and privilege to attend and contribute to such an important discussion. I have marked the annual conference as a case of best practice that others across communities could learn from.”

The Rt Revd Hugh Nelson, Acting Bishop of Truro, gave a powerful and moving address about domestic violence. You can read his speech here.

Following a lunch, those present were able to hear from two survivors – Red and Serran – about their experiences. Red’s artwork was on display around the cathedral as part of the We Learned to Fly exhibition.

Speaking after the conference and exhibition, Red said: “Exhibiting at the cathedral was an amazing experience for me. My work carries a strong message which I hope will give women experiencing abuse hope and determination. This was the perfect venue to reach a huge audience. I am very grateful for this opportunity and particularly for the chance to work with Lora and all the agencies involved.

“The conference was so well put together and informative. It gave me inspiration to continue my work and develop contacts so that I can reach women who would like to be heard.”

The afternoon saw a panel of experts take part in a Q& A session. Among those taking part were Serran Stevens, an expert by lived experience who works alongside Cornwall Council and MIND Cornwall. She is also vice chair of SEEdS (Survivor Experience Educating Domestic Abuse Services) Cornwall. Joining her was artist Red, Jackie May, Chief Executive of the Women’s Centre Cornwall, Martin Christmas-Nelson, Interim Head of Sexual Violence Services for First Light, and Bernie Tullin and Adele Igoe from Cornwall Refuge Trust.

Lora Prynn, Assistant Diocesan Safeguarding Officer and one of the conference organisers, said: “The day was fantastic, and the team are so grateful to everyone who attended not only for their physical attendance and support but for allowing themselves to be challenged.

“Domestic abuse support and advocacy is something I am incredibly passionate about, and it was heart-warming to have professionals, victims, survivors and thrivers in one place offering insight and reflection on how we need to continue to do better to support families impacted by domestic abuse.

“There have been local connections made as a result of this conference that I am confident will continue to grow and through that can only strengthen our safeguarding knowledge and responses in this area.”