Sir Gavin Williamson met with Cats Protection to discuss their initiative to support victims of domestic abuse.
Sir Gavin Williamson attended a parliamentary event with Cats Protection, the UK’s leading charity dedicated to feline welfare. The charity which has helped an average of 157,000 cats a year has embarked upon a new mission to help victims of domestic abuse who might also be cat owners. Research conducted by the charity revealed that 78% of those working with domestic abuse victims had encountered cases where cats were targeted by abusers, often to control or coerce a partner to stop them leaving. Often victims of domestic abuse are too afraid to leave their abusers out of fear for what might happen to their pet. From these findings Cats Protection have started a lifeline service which provides free and confidential cat fostering to enable owners to escape domestic abuse.
Sir Gavin said: “This initiative by Cats Protection will help to protect both pets and owners living under the roof of abuse. It’s vital that we do as much as we can to ensure that those living with an abuser have the means to safety, and the Cats Protection Lifeline could provide the means for many to leave safely. I’m pleased that this service will be expanded to the Midlands this December and hope that it will be used by those who need it.”
Cats Protection’s Lifeline Manager, Amy Hyde said: “We were pleased to welcome so many politicians to our reception to discuss this incredibly important issue. Sadly, far too many people feel trapped living with an abuser out of fear for the safety of their pet. Using a beloved cat as a tool for coercive control can have a huge impact on those experiencing domestic abuse and makes it even more challenging for them to leave if they are worried about what will happen to their cat if left behind.”
