Action Medical Research, in common with most medical research charities, has to acknowledge that despite developments in areas such as cell culture and computer modelling, there are occasions when potentially life-saving research depends on the use of animals. Many medical benefits, such as vaccinations and new medicines, have resulted from the use of animals in the past.

For that reason, some of our research will use animals, (mainly rats and mice), but less than 2 per cent of our funds go into this. This is in line with all other major medical research charities.

The process of obtaining permission to use animals in medical research is justifiably difficult and rigorous and the maintenance and welfare of animals in laboratories is very expensive. This is not a procedure which researchers choose unless it is absolutely essential

We are very strict with our researchers and make every effort to see if alternative methods can be used instead. Action Medical Research’s researchers are required to follow strict government guidelines covering licences to carry out animal research and regarding the welfare of animals.

If you have a query regarding our animal use then please contact us.