Campaigners are meeting with Members of Parliament in Parliament today to gain support for Holly’s Law, a proposed legislation that aims to strengthen safeguards against repeat animal abuse. The Naturewatch Foundation is urging the Government to seize the momentum behind Holly’s Law, as MPs from different parties have already expressed their support during yesterday’s Westminster Hall debate.
The debate, which was prompted by a petition signed by over 238,000 individuals, went beyond the call for a register of convicted animal abusers and focused on Holly’s Law as a practical solution to better protect animals and people. MPs emphasized the well-established link between animal abuse and domestic violence, citing evidence from the RSPCA that 71% of domestic abuse victims report receiving death threats towards their pets. MP Jacob Collier stated, “The link between animal abuse and domestic violence cannot be ignored.”
Holly’s Law proposes an Animal Protection Disclosure Scheme, similar to Clare’s Law, which would allow the police to disclose information about convicted animal abusers if there is a risk to safeguarding. Through its ‘Protect Animals. Protect People.’ campaign, the Naturewatch Foundation has long highlighted the connection between animal cruelty, domestic abuse, and serious violent crimes. The charity argues that recognizing animal abuse as an early warning sign can improve safeguarding.
Mark Randell, Campaign Manager at Naturewatch Foundation, stated, “Holly’s Law is about ensuring that the right information reaches the right people at the right time. There is strong cross-party and professional support for an animal abuse disclosure scheme, which would give survivors of domestic abuse the right to know if their partner has a history of animal cruelty.”
During the debate, MPs also brought attention to the fact that rescue centers, breeders, veterinary professionals, and animal welfare organizations currently have no reliable way of checking if someone seeking an animal has been disqualified from owning one. The Naturewatch Foundation welcomed the growing recognition that addressing animal cruelty is not only an animal welfare issue but also a matter of public protection.
Mark added, “The public and government support are there, now we need all relevant departments, including the Home Office and DEFRA, to work together to deliver Holly’s Law for Holly, for Annette (Holly’s Mum), and for all victims of abuse. As MP Jacob Collier stated, ‘We owe it to Holly to take action.'”
Today, a parliamentary drop-in is being held, hosted by MP Mary Glindon, to continue building on the momentum from yesterday’s debate and discuss how Holly’s Law can become a reality.
For more information, please contact:
Alice Williamson
Campaigns and Marketing Assistant
Naturewatch Foundation
alice@naturewatch.org
+44 (0) 1242 252 871
Mark Randell
Campaign Manager
Naturewatch Foundation
mark@naturewatch.org
+44 (0) 1242 252 871
About Naturewatch Foundation:
Naturewatch Foundation is a UK-based animal welfare charity dedicated to ending cruelty and improving the lives of animals through campaigning, education, and advocacy. For over 30 years, the charity has led initiatives to address illegal and unethical practices, including puppy farming, animal experiments, and wildlife crime. By working with policymakers, enforcement agencies, and the public, Naturewatch Foundation strives to make the world a kinder place for animals. Visit naturewatch.org to find out more.
Notes to editors:
– Holly’s Law proposes an Animal Protection Disclosure Scheme, modeled after Clare’s Law, which would allow the police to disclose relevant information about convicted animal abusers where there is a safeguarding risk.
– The Westminster Hall debate on e-petition 759783 took place on June 29, 2026, after garnering over 238,000 signatures.
– Naturewatch Foundation’s ‘Protect Animals. Protect People.’ campaign aims to raise awareness of the connection between animal abuse and domestic violence.
