Dog Desk Radio | The Nation’s Animal Station
Holly Bramley lost her life to domestic violence in 2023. Her mother, Annette Bramley, is determined that something positive should emerge from the tragedy her family has endured. Through Holly’s Law, she is campaigning for changes that could save other lives.
In this episode of Dog Desk Radio, Annette joins family law solicitor Catherine Haworth and Mark Randell, Strategic Adviser for Animal Abuse and Public Protection at Naturewatch, to discuss the relationship between animal cruelty and domestic abuse, and the serious gaps in safeguarding that the campaign is seeking to address.
At the heart of Holly’s Law is a straightforward question. If someone has a history of cruelty towards animals, should that information be considered when assessing the danger they may pose to another person?
As Catherine explains, the answer may appear obvious, but achieving meaningful change is considerably more complicated.
The discussion examines the limitations of existing disclosure arrangements, including Clare’s Law, the difficulties of sharing information between police forces and animal welfare organisations, and the need for consistent police training.
Catherine explains how Holly’s Law has developed beyond its original proposals into a wider programme of work involving statutory guidance, information-sharing, safeguarding practices and professional training. She also discusses engagement with the Home Office and plans to work with organisations involved in domestic abuse training.
Mark draws on his policing and animal protection experience to explain why cruelty towards animals must be taken seriously within wider safeguarding assessments. Animals can be used to intimidate, threaten and control victims, and the warning signs are not limited to pets living within the family home.
The conversation also raises an important challenge for animal welfare organisations themselves. Are we adequately prepared to recognise domestic abuse, support those affected and work alongside other safeguarding agencies?
This is a question the animal welfare sector needs to consider carefully.
Annette brings the discussion back to its central purpose: preventing other people from experiencing what happened to Holly.
As she explains, her hope is that someone, somewhere, will be able to make an informed decision about their safety because information that might previously have been overlooked is finally available.
Holly’s Law is about recognising danger earlier, connecting information that is currently fragmented and preventing further loss of life.
Support Holly’s Law
Learn more about the campaign, its proposals and how to contact your MP:
https://www.haworthfamilylaw.co.uk/hollyslaw
Worried About Your Relationship?
Domestic abuse is not always physical. Threats, intimidation, coercive control and harm or threats towards animals can all be warning signs.
In the podcast, Catherine emphasises the importance of seeking specialist advice and planning for safety rather than feeling pressured to leave an abusive relationship without support.
If you are worried about your relationship, you can contact the National Domestic Abuse Helpline in England, run by Refuge, free and confidentially, 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247.
For domestic abuse support throughout the UK:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/domestic-abuse-how-to-get-help
If you are concerned about leaving a pet behind, specialist animal fostering services may be able to help. The podcast discusses support offered by organisations including Dogs Trust, Cats Protection and Refuge4Pets.
If you are in immediate danger, call 999.
