National Gamekeepers’ Organisation challenges misleading statement from Police and Crime Commissioner

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The National Gamekeepers’ Organisation (NGO) has lodged a formal challenge against comments made in a recent social media post by Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Susan Dungworth. The post, issued during Rural Crime Action Week, suggested that “legally held firearms” are often used by abusers in domestic abuse cases in rural areas to isolate victims.

Speaking on behalf of the NGO, Livia Brynin, Firearms Advisor for the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation, said:

“The National Gamekeepers’ Organisation does not, under any circumstances, condone domestic abuse. Perpetrators must always be held to account. However, to imply that legally held firearms are inherently linked to domestic abuse is both misleading and damaging. It unfairly stigmatises responsible, law-abiding firearms owners and rural workers who fully comply with one of the most rigorous licensing systems in the world.”

The NGO has emphasised its strong support for the role of the police in assessing and reviewing the suitability of firearms certificate holders. The UK’s existing firearms licensing system already includes:

• Extensive background checks for all applicants
• Medical verification with GPs
• Ongoing monitoring, with powers to refuse or revoke certificates immediately if risks are identified, including in cases of domestic abuse

Livia Brynin added:

“Safeguards are already in place and the police have the authority and responsibility to act swiftly when there is evidence of risk. Suggesting otherwise undermines confidence in the licensing process and risks damaging trust between rural communities and the authorities. What is needed is accurate, proportionate communication that protects victims while respecting the rights of law-abiding citizens.”

The NGO has called for the post to be withdrawn, and for a clarification and apology to be issued. In the spirit of constructive engagement, the NGO has also invited Susan Dungworth to meet with us directly.

“We would welcome dialogue with her office to help ensure future messaging protects victims of abuse without undermining or misrepresenting responsible certificate holders. We would also invite her to engage with the NGO on our recently published Rural Crime Report, which we will be able to break down specifically within her county.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

The National Gamekeepers’ Organisation: The National Gamekeepers’ Organisation (NGO) represents the gamekeepers of England and Wales. The NGO defends and promotes gamekeeping and gamekeepers and works to ensure high standards throughout the profession. The National Gamekeepers’ Organisation was founded in 1997 by a group of gamekeepers who felt that keepering was threatened by public misunderstanding and poor representation. Today, there are 13,000 members of the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation.  www.nationalgamekeepers.org.uk