Buckinghamshire Council has become an accredited White Ribbon organisation.

This demonstrates its commitment to preventing harassment, abuse, and violence against women and girls.

White Ribbon is the UK's leading charity engaging men and boys to end violence against women and girls.

The council hosted the Buckinghamshire Domestic Abuse Partnership's conference, educating professionals on coercive control.

This involves behaviours used to maintain control over a partner, ex-partner, or family member through fear and humiliation.

Guest speaker David Challen shared his mother's experience, saying: "He bullied and humiliated her, isolated her from her friends and family, controlled who she could socialise with, controlled her money, restricted her movement, and created a culture of fear and dependency."

Other speakers included Professor Khatidja Chantler from Manchester Met University and Dr Emma Katz, the world's leading academic expert on coercive control and its impacts on children.

Arif Hussain, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: "Fifty-seven people experience domestic abuse in Buckinghamshire every day.

"This is unacceptable."

He urged individuals to look out for 'red flags' in relationships, such as controlling behaviour, which can be a form of domestic violence.

He encouraged anyone with concerns to contact the Buckinghamshire Domestic Abuse Services Helpline, which is available 24/7 on 01296 437777.

The council is running a campaign to raise awareness of these red flags, helping people recognise early signs of coercive control and domestic abuse.