HUMANE ANIMAL DISPATCH SCHEME EXPANDS NATIONWIDE

IMAGE: SHUTTERSTOCK - GIEDRIIUS

The Humane Animal Dispatch (HAD) scheme, which ensures the humane treatment of injured deer involved in road collisions, is now being rolled out to police forces across the UK. This initiative not only benefits animal welfare but also opens opportunities for the hunting and shooting sector, with retailers and professionals playing a crucial role in its success.

Launched by Hampshire Constabulary more than15 years ago, the scheme originally partnered with rural communities, including gamekeepers and deer managers, many of whom source their equipment from hunting and shooting retailers. These professionals are essential to the programme, as they bring expertise in deer management and access to specialised equipment, such as humane dispatch tools and optics—key components often supplied by the trade.

The HAD scheme relies on volunteers trained in deer management to provide a 24/7 service, reducing the demand on police firearms officers. In 2024, volunteers in Hampshire alone handled 130 incidents (up to 31 October, 2024), compared to just 21 deployments involving firearms officers. This has saved the police an estimated £47,095, with potential savings exceeding £100,000 in 2025 due to rising deer populations and increased deployments.

David McAuley, CEO of The British Deer Society, highlighted the collaboration between police forces, volunteers, and industry partners as essential. “After over 20 years of dedicated work by Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary and numerous volunteers, we are thrilled to see this scheme expanding nationally,” he said.

“The collaboration between police forces, industry organisations, as well as volunteers, is vital to ensuring injured deer receive humane treatment while reducing pressure on policing resources.

“We are committed to supporting this effort by raising funds for essential safety equipment and training for approved HAD volunteers, helping ensure their safety and the programme’s longterm success.”

The scheme has received support from organisations including the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC), the British Deer Society, and the RSPCA. This partnership ensures the programme adheres to industry and animal welfare standards while emphasising the importance of professional deer management.

A cornerstone of the HAD scheme is the training provided to volunteers. The Deer Management Qualification (DMQ) now includes a dedicated HAD award, ensuring volunteers meet rigorous standards. For hunting and shooting retailers, the expansion of training presents an opportunity to supply equipment tailored for humane dispatch and deer management, ranging from optics and firearms to safety gear.

The scheme also strengthens ties between the shooting industry and conservation efforts. By equipping and supporting gamekeepers, deer managers, and HAD volunteers, the trade contributes to a national model of best practice. This collaboration not only supports wildlife welfare but also reinforces the role of the shooting community in ethical and sustainable deer management.

The national rollout of the HAD scheme demonstrates how partnerships between police forces, rural communities, and the shooting trade can deliver significant benefits, from humane wildlife management to reduced policing costs.