Government reiterates commitment to licensing animal rescues and sanctuaries, but consultation still pending

The Government has restated its intention to introduce a formal licensing and regulatory regime for animal rescues and sanctuaries, confirming that work is ongoing but that no consultation has yet been published.

Responding to a written parliamentary question, ministers said they “remain committed” to strengthening oversight of rescue and rehoming organisations. The proposed reforms are expected to bring consistency with existing licensing frameworks for animal establishments, improve welfare safeguards, and ensure clearer accountability for operators caring for vulnerable or high‑risk animals.

Officials noted that preparatory work continues within the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), but provided no timetable for when a consultation will open. Sector bodies have repeatedly called for progress, highlighting gaps in current arrangements and the need for enforceable minimum standards, inspection powers and properly funded regulatory structures.