Institute of Criminology VRC: 'Adverse Childhood Experiences: Tackling trauma and why it is a big deal for a healthy life course' - Professor Mark Bellis

The Violence Research Centre at the Institute of Criminology, University of Cambridge, will host Professor Mark Bellis for a discussion on 'Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs): Tackling trauma and why it is a big deal for a healthy life course'.

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are an increasing international concern. There is a growing body of evidence that our experiences during childhood can affect health throughout the life course. Children who experience stressful and poor-quality childhoods are more likely to adopt health-harming behaviours during adolescence which can themselves lead to mental health illnesses and diseases such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes later in life. Adverse Childhood Experiences are not just a concern for health. Experiencing ACEs means individuals are more likely to perform poorly in school, more likely to be involved in crime and ultimately less likely to be a productive member of society.

Professor Mark Bellis is the Director of Policy, Research and International Development for Public Health Wales, UK Focal Point to the World Health Organization (WHO) for Violence and Injury Prevention and alcohol lead for the UK Faculty of Public Health. Professor Bellis has undertaken substantive work in the fields of violence prevention, alcohol, drugs and sexual health. He is an expert advisor to the Home Office and a member of the WHO global expert advisory panel on violence prevention. As well as international work with WHO, Professor Bellis has also worked as an advisor to organisations including: United Nations Development Programme, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund.

This event will be held on Monday, 6 November from 5.30-7pm with a drinks reception afterwards. The venue is Room B3, Institute of Criminology, Sidgwick Avenue, University of Cambridge.