Strong Cross-Party Support for “Purple Paw” Campaign to Protect Animals and People

Strong Cross-Party Support for “Purple Paw” Campaign to Protect Animals and People

National initiative invites people across the UK to share stories of the life-changing bond they share with their animals

MPs from across the political spectrum came together in a powerful show of unity to support a new campaign highlighting the critical link between animal welfare and human safety.

The “Purple Paw” event, hosted by Cat Eccles MP, brought together MPs from four political parties alongside members of the House of Lords. The event also welcomed Alex Davies-Jones MP, Minister for Victims and Violence Against Women and Girls, demonstrating growing government engagement with the issue.

The event marked the introduction of two key initiatives:

• Purple Paw – a campaign celebrating the strength of the human–animal bond and raising awareness of its role in safeguarding
• Act to Protect – a practical framework designed to help protect both people and animals by recognising the links between abuse, coercive control, and animal harm

Protect Animals Protect People

Purple Paw forms part of Naturewatch Foundation’s ‘Protect Animals, Protect People’ campaign, which highlights the link between animal abuse and domestic violence. With around 60% of UK households sharing their lives with a pet, ‘Purple Paw’ aims to spark a nationwide conversation about the value of the human–animal bond and why it deserves greater recognition and protection.

The newly launched Act to Protect report sets out practical cross-government recommendations to strengthen collaboration between animal welfare and safeguarding agencies, helping to ensure families and their pets are kept safe together.

Research shows that threats or harm to pets are often used as a tool of coercive control in abusive households. Yet, animal welfare and human safeguarding systems operate separately.

Naturewatch Foundation is calling for stronger joined-up policy approaches that recognise the vital role pets play in family life, and the risks families may face when that bond is exploited.

The campaign is supported by patron Wendy Turner Webster, who has spoken about the comfort and stability her own animals have provided during challenging periods in her life.

A Campaign of Hope

By sharing uplifting stories of companionship and resilience, Purple Paw aims to demonstrate how caring for animals also supports human wellbeing, and how protecting pets ultimately helps protect people too.

Supporters who take part will receive a purple paw window or car decal to display in their communities, creating a visible symbol of solidarity and support for the human–animal bond across the country.

Mark Randell, Campaign Manager at Naturewatch Foundation, said:

“Animals are an integral part of our relationships, families and communities. The bond we share with them brings companionship, comfort and support, while helping people develop compassion and improving wellbeing. I would like to thank the MPs who attended our Purple Paw event, and invite those who were unable to join us to contact us to learn how they can support the 60% of households across the UK who share their lives with a pet.”

As stories and images are shared from across the UK, Naturewatch Foundation hopes Purple Paw will become a recognisable symbol of connection.

Members of the public can share their story and upload a photo here.

ENDS

For further information please contact:

Media queries:

Alice Williamson

Campaigns and Marketing Assistant

Naturewatch Foundation

[email protected]

+44 (0) 1242 252 871

Campaign queries:

Mark Randell

Campaign Manager

Naturewatch Foundation

[email protected]

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 tackle 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.