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Charities meet MPs to call for fireworks review
MPs were invited to sign a declaration calling for a change in fireworks legislation.
Drop-in event sees politicians ask the Government to change the law.

As New Year’s Eve approaches, a coalition of charities has met with MPs to call for a review of fireworks legislation.

At the drop-in event at Westminster on Wednesday, 6 December, representatives from the Fireworks Working Group spoke with MPs from across the political spectrum about the need for further restrictions to be introduced on where and when fireworks can be used.

MPs were told about the distress that firework displays can cause for animals and people. Those who attended were invited to sign a declaration asking the Government to conduct a review of existing firework legislation to account for the impact that fireworks have on human and animal welfare.

In England and Wales, it is currently legal for any adult to set off fireworks on private property between 7am and 11pm, with extended cut-off times on particular days such as Bonfire Night, New Year’s Eve and Diwali.

The Fireworks Working Group is made up of 16 charities: Cats Protection, British Veterinary Association, Dogs Trust, Blue Cross, Battersea, Children’s Burns Trust, The Kennel Club, Combat Stress, PTSD UK, Dan’s Fund for Burns, Assistance Dogs, Service Dogs, British Horse Society, Redwings, Bravehounds and Help for Heroes.

Cats Protection’s advocacy and government relations officer Charlotte Broad said: “We were very pleased to be part of this important event to highlight the harmful effects fireworks can have on vulnerable people, animals and pet owners.

“We hope that by working together with other charities, we can urge the Government to modernise our fireworks legislation to make sure it is fit for purpose and allow people to enjoy displays without causing excessive stress and discomfort for other people and animals.”

Image © Cats Protection

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Animal Medicines Amnesty returns this November

News Story 1
 Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty.

Organised by the Responsible Use of Medicines Alliance Companion Animal and Equine (RUMA CA&E), the initative is supported by a range of cross-sector organisations.

Practices are encouraged to use the campaign to engage the whole practice team and raise awareness of the safe disposal of medicines with clients. Learn how your practice can get involved at rumacae.org.uk 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
APHA launches free virtual work experience programme

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), in collaboration with Springpod, has launched a free virtual work experience programme, giving young people across the UK the chance to explore careers dedicated to protecting animal and plant health.

The on-demand programme offers a unique insight into career opportunities within APHA, showcasing how students can contribute to tackling some of the UK's most critical biosecurity and environmental challenges.

Designed for students aged 13 and over, the course includes more than 10 hours of engaging content featuring real-life industry insights, scenario-based challenges, and practical guidance on applying for jobs. To register for the course, visit the APHA website.