The paper sets out the research evidence on the correlation, or the 'links', between child abuse, animal abuse and domestic violence, explores the evidence base available to professionals working with animals or children and describes the process of establishing a national multidisciplinary group known as the Links Group. The paper goes on to consider the challenges in setting up a working group of this kind and its subsequent progress in terms of influencing policy and practice. Finally, the authors make a series of recommendations aimed at continuing the process of change within organizations charged with the welfare of animals, children and vulnerable families.

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