Domestic violence discussed (+video)

Anti-domestic violence campaigner Lesley Elliott brought her message to the latest Women in Business Speaker Series, run by the Rotorua Chamber of Commerce.

Mrs Elliott, who was awarded the top honour at the Women of Influence Awards in 2014, formed the Sophie Elliott Foundation after her daughter was tragically murdered by her ex-boyfriend in 2008, when she was 22.

Mrs Elliott spoke to a crowd of nearly 50 last night about her daughter's relationship and the events that led to her death, as well as the importance of educating young people about identifying abusive relationships.

"It's just the story, and that we didn't see the signs of abuse."

Mrs Elliott said she had worked with police to create resources for schools to use, including a one-day programme for students on identifying abusive relationships.

The chamber's chief executive Darrin Walsh said that, while the talk did not have a business message, it was important for the community.

"The event is important on a number of levels. They [events] bring people together and allow people to network.

"This one is a little bit different in that it doesn't have a business message but a community-based message to it, and one in particular I think the chamber wants to align itself with.

"We were looking for something different that will get our members along."

Rotorua woman Sue Rowlinson was there to support the foundation and learn more about Sophie's story.

"I've read the book so I'm just here to support the foundation."

-For more information about the foundation, visit www.sophieelliottfoundation.co.nz.