Animal Welfare Foundation’s Discussion Forum is back for 2025

Tackling extreme breeding practices; the economics of farm animal welfare; and the often-overlooked welfare needs of ornamental fish are just some of the pressing animal welfare challenges to be discussed at the charity’s annual flagship event.

Taking place on Monday 19 May 2025 at the Cavendish Conference Centre in London (W1G 9DT), the Discussion Forum is a unique CPD event entirely dedicated to animal welfare. The sessions will include expert speakers from academia, business and government, bringing together unique perspectives and expertise to discuss the complex issues facing animals today and potential innovative, evidence-based solutions.

Sessions will include:

• Translating behaviour: How can veterinary professionals harness animal behaviour as a key welfare indicator with greater confidence?
  Explore the science and significance of animal actions as reflections of their mental states and how interpreting these signs can be underpinned by evidence.
• Breeding for better welfare: How can we transform extreme breeding practices to improve animal welfare? (Sponsored by Agria)
  Our speakers will address extreme breeding practices and explore how research, policy and attitudes can shape pathways to create healthier, happier animals.
• The economics of welfare: Is good welfare good for business?
  Dive into the complex relationship between economics and farm animal welfare, and debate whether good animal welfare can coexist with profitable business models, and how stakeholders, from government to consumers, can drive meaningful progress.
• Ornamental fish welfare: How much do we really know about the lives and welfare of ornamental fish?
  This session will shed light on the often-overlooked welfare considerations of pet fish, providing an in-depth exploration of their sentience, welfare challenges, and experiences in captivity.

Alongside these thought-provoking discussions, attendees will hear updates on AWF-funded research; be able to participate in Lightning Talks, where they have the chance to take to the stage to talk about issues they are passionate about; and enjoy networking opportunities at the exclusive evening reception.

Chair of the Animal Welfare Foundation Julian Kupfer said: “Year on year, the Discussion Forum grows in influence and impact, becoming a must-attend event for those passionate about driving evidence-based, positive change for animal welfare. In 2025, we’re confronting some of the most urgent and complex issues in our field, from extreme breeding to the economics of welfare. This is more than a conference - it’s a catalyst for change.”

AWF is the British Veterinary Association’s (BVA) charity. Speaking ahead of the event, BVA President and AWF Trustee Liz Mullineaux said: “The AWF Discussion Forum is one of the highlights of the BVA calendar. Dealing with new and existing challenges is key to being a vet. The Discussion Forum is a fantastic opportunity for members of the veterinary and animal welfare professions to get together to discuss these issues, to share knowledge and evidence, and champion the welfare of animals.”

Tickets are now on sale, with standard tickets priced at £140, which includes lunch and the evening reception, with concessions available for students, recent graduates and veterinary nurses.

To buy tickets and for more information about the programme and speakers, visit: https://www.animalwelfarefoundation.org.uk/2025-discussion-forum/