Domestic abuse drama to open campus law conference

A play written by a former family judge will open a conference on domestic abuse at the University of Reading.

"Bite" by Stephen Wildblood KC, performed by professional actors, will set the scene for a day exploring how professionals can better support families affected by domestic abuse. "What Do We Do About Domestic Abuse?" takes place on Wednesday, 5 November 2025 and is hosted by OnlyMums & Dads, in partnership with Boyes Turner, Coram Chambers and OurFamilyWizard.

The multidisciplinary event brings together lawyers, mediators, domestic abuse advocates, charities and divorce coaches for interactive sessions including roundtable discussions, lectures and conversations.

As a former practising barrister who worked in this area of family and criminal law, Amanda Millmore, Professor of Law at the University of Reading, is familiar with the issue of domestic abuse in family cases. She said: “We teach our students to understand the implications of abusive relationships and the broader social context of their studies. Events like this, where students can meet with practitioners in the field to discuss what they are studying during their degree, are vital to helping students develop a wider and more nuanced understanding of the areas of practice that they may end up working in.

“We're doing things differently with this conference by starting with drama to get people thinking and feeling before we dive into the professional discussions. Domestic abuse in family separation requires all of us to work together, not in silos. This conference brings together a range of people who work with separating families to share knowledge, challenge our thinking, and develop better ways to help the families that need us most."

The conference offers extensive networking opportunities alongside deep learning about the causes and impacts of domestic abuse. Delegates will discover collaborative and creative approaches to supporting families, learning from expert speakers including Dr Olga Luzon, Clinical Psychologist, Royal Holloway, Alison Easton KC from Coram Chambers and more.

Central to the event's mission is supporting future lawyers. Boyes Turner are sponsoring places for law students from both the University of Reading and the University of Law, introducing them early to the multidisciplinary thinking that's essential in domestic abuse cases.

View the full programme and book your place to attend.