April 02, 2026
Following progress in bringing forward the animal sexual abuse bill, Dave Martin, Group Director of Welfare is calling for the support of veterinary professionals to help strengthen court powers against those who commit offences.
Earlier this year, a campaign led by Dave Martin and the trustees of the Links Group helped bring forward a proposal to amend the Sexual Offences Act 2003.
This amendment establishes a clear definition of animal sexual abuse and will enable the prosecution of those committing serious offences. This signals an important step forward in delivering justice on behalf of abused animals.
However, Dave and the Links Group have continued campaigning as the proposed amendment in its current form does not take measures to adequately protect the animals abused or shield other animals and people from the perpetrator’s harm.
Watch this video from Dave to hear more about why further changes are needed on the Crime and Policing Bill.
In summary, Dave is calling for changes to give courts the power to:
Animal sexual abuse is not an isolated issue as often individuals who commit crimes against animals are more likely to abuse children and partners and commit violence against others.
By supporting this campaign, we can help protect both animals and people, enabling early intervention to help prevent further violence across the UK.
On 14 April 2026, the bill will return to the House of Commons, where final amendments can still be made. It is more important than ever that MPs understand the urgency of these issues and support the stronger measures put forward.
Therefore, we urge you to contact your local MP and ask them to back these changes. You can use the letter template below to explain why this issue matters.
Find the contact details for your local MP here.
Dear [MP’s Name],
I am writing as your constituent to ask you to support a further amendment to the Crime and Policing Bill.
The Government is strengthening the definition of animal sexual abuse, but courts still would not have clear and consistent powers to prevent reoffending.
As it stands, through Amendment 268, someone convicted of sexually abusing an animal will still be able to keep or acquire animals. Courts will, under this amendment, have no power of disqualfication or deprivation on conviction of this offence
We need to close this gap and enable courts to remove animals from offenders and ban them from keeping animals in future.
This is a practical and proportionate step. It is necessary to properly protect animals and reduce the risk of further harm, particularly given the recognised links to child abuse and domestic abuse.
I urge you to encourage the Government to make these changes when the Bill returns to the Commons. I would be grateful to know your position.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Postcode]