animal offenders register (aor)
Read our full policy proposal for the Animal Offenders Register HERE
our proposal
Verify Humanity proposes the creation of an official Animal Offenders Register (AOR). This would keep a record of individuals convicted, cautioned, reprimanded or warned of wildlife, and all animal-related offences
oUTCOME
When linked with a DBS check, the AOR would prevent those convicted of cruelty or wildlife offences from regaining access to activities involving animals. The background-checking mechanism would provide relevant organisations with a searchable system that would quietly flag concerns and act as a preventative safeguard.
EASE OF USE
The AOR would be an easy system to integrate as it is similar to systems that are already established in the UK such as the child sex-offenders register and DBS. The AOR could be integrated into these existing frameworks so that checks remain proportionate and administratively light whilst aiding safeguarding processes and tackling animal crime.
IMPACT ON HUNTING
This will stop those with a proven record of animal cruelty in Trail Hunting from regaining access to Drag and Clean Boot hunts. This could include positions such as the Master of the hounds, the Hunt Secretary and even riders who join a Hunt.
The AOR could also be used to verify applicants seeking land-use permission for hunts.
The establishment of the AOR will incentivise individuals in Drag and Clean Boot hunts to act within the law, as a potential ban could be a greater deterrent than fines.
It will also aid Drag and Clean Boot hunts, councils, and the police in enforcing the law.