Animal welfare charity, Battersea, is calling on the public to support the Renters’ Rights Bill ahead of its upcoming discussions in Parliament, highlighting the real-life struggles of renters like Ailish, who have faced heartbreaking decisions due to restrictive pet policies.
The Renters’ Rights Bill, which includes vital provisions for pet owners, is a much-needed step towards ensuring that more renters across the UK can live with the pets they love. Battersea’s Pet Friendly Properties campaign has been advocating for meaningful reform for years, pushing for changes that will allow more pet owners to keep their animals in rented homes. With more people renting than ever before, the Bill’s provisions are critical in preventing cases of pet surrender and the distress that accompanies it.
Ailish, a Yorkshire-based renter, has shared her difficult journey of trying to find accommodation that would allow her to keep Salem, her 10-year-old cat. Despite offering references, Ailish faced constant rejection from landlords who cited concerns like noise or damage, which were not relevant to her elderly indoor cat. Most distressing of all were the repeated suggestions that Ailish give up Salem to secure a tenancy, a request she firmly rejected, as her cat is a beloved member of her family.
Ailish’s search for pet-friendly accommodation was made even harder by the competitive housing market in York, which left her in a state of constant stress. After a long search, she eventually secured a home that allowed Salem, but at a cost — she now pays an additional £50 per month to keep her pet with her.
Ben Parker, Public Affairs Manager at Battersea, said: “At Battersea, we know just how heart-wrenching it is for people to be forced to part with their pets due to housing restrictions. Ailish’s story is one that far too many renters can relate to, and it highlights why the Renters’ Rights Bill is so crucial. This Bill will make a real difference, ensuring that renters are not put in the impossible position of having to choose between a roof over their head and their much-loved pet.”
Battersea has seen first-hand the emotional toll that housing restrictions take on both pets and their owners. The charity’s centres regularly care for animals whose owners have been forced to part with them due to the lack of pet-friendly housing options.
Ben continued: “Ailish’s experience is sadly not unique. We hear from countless people who are desperate to keep their pets, but the current rental market often leaves them with no choice but to give them up. The Renters’ Rights Bill offers hope for a future where pet owners no longer face these heart-breaking situations. We are urging the public to show their support for this important piece of legislation, which will protect pets and their families for generations to come.”
To show your support for renters like Ailish, Battersea is encouraging the public to find out more by visiting the Battersea website to see how their support can help. The Bill represents a vital opportunity to bring about lasting change that will make housing more accessible for pet owners across the UK. For more information and to take action, visit here.
