Deputy PCC opening the CAPVA conference
More than 80 professionals have come together to put a spotlight on one of the region’s most complex and least visible forms of abuse – violence and harm by children and young people towards their parents and carers.
The Merseyside Child and Adolescent to Parent Violence and Abuse (CAPVA) Conference saw experts from policing, health, education, local authorities, universities and the voluntary sector unite to focus on what families across Merseyside are experiencing and how agencies can respond better together to tackle this hidden harm.
Hosted by the Merseyside Violence Reduction Partnership (MVRP) in collaboration with Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) yesterday (Monday 13th April), the conference marked an important step forward for the region – shifting the focus from understanding the issue to putting learning into action to better support families.
CAPVA was previously highlighted as a serious but under‑recognised issue through research commissioned by the MVRP and carried out by LJMU in 2023. That research revealed the scale of harm being experienced by families, as well as gaps in awareness, consistency and specialist support. At the time, just 3% of professionals felt there was enough help available for parents, carers and young people affected.
Since then, partners across Merseyside have taken action and delegates heard about some of the significant progress made, including the launch of the Merseyside CAPVA Project, led by national charity Respect, the appointment of a dedicated regional CAPVA Lead and the creation of a multi‑agency CAPVA Steering Group bringing organisations from every Merseyside borough together to drive change and improve pathways into support.
Sessions also explored:
- new research findings and what they tell us about prevalence and impact
- neurodiversity and disability, and how these can shape both risk and response
- frontline practice challenges and what helps families feel supported
- the importance of early intervention, training and shared language across services
The conference was opened by Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Cllr Jeanie Bell on behalf of Merseyside’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Emily Spurrell who oversees the work of the MVRP.
“Child and adolescent to parent violence and abuse is often a hidden harm in the home, leaving families feeling isolated, ashamed and unsure where to turn.
“Research has shown just how complex and damaging CAPVA can be, not only for parents and carers but for children and young people themselves.
“This conference was focused on bringing research, practice and lived experience together to strengthen our response to these incidences and make sure families receive the right support at the right time.
“What has been truly inspiring about today’s event is the collective determination across Merseyside to turn awareness into action and continue driving this work forward together.”
Deputy PCC Jeanie Bell
“It was truly inspiring to see such a strong turnout at the CAPVA conference. The energy in the room reflected a shared passion and commitment to driving this important work forward.
“The speakers’ presentations were hopefully really useful, and it was clear that attendees found the discussions valuable. We hope everyone left feeling informed, motivated, and ready to continue making a difference.”
Rebecca Bates from Liverpool John Moores University