Child abuse and animal cruelty 'linked'

The conference will discuss methods of preventing cruelty

Two charities are joining forces to explore the links between child abuse and animal cruelty.

The NSPCC and the RSPCA are holding a conference in Leicester to discuss a joint approach to the problems.

The organisations warn that the sort of person who hits or abuses a family pet may also behave violently towards children.

Delegates at the conference will include experts from the police, and social services and veterinary specialists.

Maltreatment of animals in a family can sound a warning bell that children are also at risk

Mary Marsh, NSPCC

They are discussing topics such as how to spot cruelty to animals and children, links between domestic violence and abuse of animals and effective prevention measures.

Mary Marsh, director and chief executive of the NSPCC, said: "Animals and children have one thing in common - they're both easily hurt.

"Maltreatment of animals in a family can sound a warning bell that children are also at risk. We need to recognise the cruelty connection.

"This conference breaks new ground and challenges us to think in different ways.

Violence to pets may indicate children are also at risk

"It provides a unique opportunity for professionals to explore the links and consider how they can work together to create a future free from cruelty to children and animals."

It is the first time that the two charities have undertaken such a comprehensive co-ordinated approach to cruelty issues although the link has been made in the past.

Other studies suggest that children who abuse animals may grow into violent adults.

Peter Davies, director general of the RSPCA, said: "Violence towards children and animals is an attitude of mind that needs to be tackled by a multi-agency approach.

"The two societies hope to put the expertise gained from this unique gathering of professionals towards informing and shaping future policy and practice in child and animal protection."