Today (3 March), we staged a powerful visual exhibition in central London calling on the UK Government to deliver on its promise and phase out cages for laying hens.

700 drawings, one message

At St Martin-in-the Fields, which overlooks Trafalgar Square, we unveiled our striking ‘Draw the Line at Caged Hens’ art exhibition. 700 drawings of hens were displayed, each on A4, highlighting the approximate amount of space 7 million UK laying hens are confined to in cages. Hens are sentient beings with their own personalities – captured beautifully in each picture by you, our creative and dedicated supporters.

Amongst the artworks were pieces by some of our high-profile supporters including Chris Packham, Deborah Meaden, Miriam Margolyes and Dame Joanna Lumley.

Hens cannot clucking wait

Our captivating installation comes as the UK Government is consulting on phasing out cages for laying hens. After decades of campaigning, we’re so close to seeing a ban. We call on the Government to ensure a ban is delivered swiftly, following the consultation period. Hens have waited long enough.

Strong public support

Every year in the UK, around 7 million laying hens spend most of their lives in so-called 'enriched' cages. Caged hens are severely restricted in their ability to move around and carry out natural behaviours like stretching and flapping their wings or scratching. Outdated cage systems are still legal in the UK, despite the fact that 75% of the British public believe they are cruel.

It’s time to End the Cage Age

Emma Hamm, our Senior Campaigns Manager said:

Seeing this poignant exhibition come to life has been a moving experience. It shows how much compassion our supporters have for laying hens and how important it is to see them freed from cages. We would like to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed their wonderful artwork.

With the Government’s consultation underway, the message is clear – it’s time to End the Cage Age.

Take action

It is vital that the Government implements a ban on cruel caged systems. Please respond to Defra’s consultation, urging them to End the Cage Age for hens in the UK.

Draw the Line: Art exhibition demands UK ban on cages for hens