Animals Volunteer Roles in Croydon, Greater London

Do you want to help us end the abuse of animals raised for food? In this flexible role, you will create change for animals by attending in-person events and taking campaign actions from home at a time that works for you. 

Why join us? We exist to end the abuse of animals raised for food. We work specifically on corporate focused campaigns demanding better welfare practices for chickens. This flexible and rewarding role is perfect for those looking to make a difference for farmed animals but without the strict time commitment. There are no set hours, you can get involved whenever you are free. Whether you're a student, retired, working full time, or somewhere in between - we would love to welcome you.

As a Campaign Volunteer, you will help us drive change for farmed animals by: 

• Joining us for in-person events locally, and nationally (this may include peaceful protests, public outreach and informal meet-ups). All relevant expenses will be paid.

• Taking part in campaign actions from home including writing emails and letters, making phone calls and social media actions

• Connecting with your MP to campaign for change

• And more! 

Gain fantastic transferable experience and build your advocacy skills in this flexible and rewarding role. You will be working directly with THL UK staff members who will steward and support you throughout your time with us. You will also have access to exclusive training opportunities to further your animal advocacy development, as well as a full onboarding process to get you started.

Our team is based all over the UK, so we’re set up to provide you with a great experience no matter where you’re based. We cover expenses to join us at in-person events, so you can be based anywhere and still get involved. No prior experience is required, we’ll give you everything you need. There is no set time commitment, but roughly 2-4 hours a month is average for this role, depending on how much you choose to get involved with.

Everything you do in support of our campaigns will help to reduce the suffering of animals who are on factory farms right now. Want to get involved? Apply today!

Disclaimer:

The Humane League UK is committed to building a diverse, equitable and inclusive team. We are an equal opportunities organisation and welcome volunteer applications from all people, regardless of their race, sex, age, religion, disability, neurodiversity, orientation, gender identity or expression. We particularly encourage those currently under-represented in the animal movement to join our team – individuals who are Black, Indigenous or People of the Global Majority, a person who is differently abled, and people who are LGBTQIA+.

We endeavour to make all our events and activities as inclusive as possible, with accessibility at the forefront of our minds - not as an afterthought.

If you prefer to apply in another way, or you have alternative requirements you’d like to discuss, don’t hesitate to contact us - please find our email address on the Role Profile document below.

Do you envisage a world free from animal suffering? As a Grassroots Organiser, you will help make this vision a reality by organising regular campaign events and actions in your local area. All materials provided and relevant expenses paid.

Why join us? We exist to end the abuse of animals raised for food. We work specifically on corporate focused campaigns demanding better welfare practices for chickens. The actions and events you organise will help to open the eyes of the general public to the truth of factory farming, and add vital pressure onto our corporate targets, ultimately resulting in reducing animal suffering.

As a warm, friendly and approachable person, you will thrive taking the lead organising events and actions and enjoy meeting like-minded people.

We're a remote team, so we can support you wherever you are in the UK. There are no limitations on location.

As a Grassroots Organiser, you will be changing animal lives by:

• Organising events/actions in your local area including social meet-ups, peaceful protests, leafleting and public outreach (roughly 1 event every 6-8 weeks is ideal where possible). All materials are provided and relevant expenses paid.

• Promote your events/actions and encourage others to join you, bringing people together for the animals to create change

• Joining us at other in-person events/actions including peaceful protests organised by staff and other volunteers

• Get involved in campaign actions remotely, such as writing emails, letters, social media actions and more

• Attend online events within the volunteer community

The events and actions you organise don't need to be big, 2 or 3 people getting out there for the animals will make all the difference and we have an existing community of volunteers to tap into.

Perfect for those interested in gaining firsthand experience in campaigning or volunteer management, or just interested in creating direct change for animals. If you’re excited by the prospect of speaking to the public and taking the lead to organise local actions, all while making a genuine difference to animals, this is the role for you.

You will be working directly with THL UK staff members who will steward and support you throughout your time with us, including a full onboarding process to get you started. We'll give you everything you need, no prior experience needed.

There is no set time commitment for this role, you can get involved at a time that works for you, but we ask that you organise at least 1 event every 6-8 weeks where possible. It takes around 4-6 hours to deliver an event (including planning and delivery). Whether you're a student, retired, working full time, or somewhere in between - we would love to welcome you.

If you agree with our vision, and you want to do your part to help end the abuse of animals raised for food, join our team today.

Disclaimer:

The Humane League UK is committed to building a diverse, equitable and inclusive team. We are an equal opportunities organisation and welcome volunteer applications from all people, regardless of their race, sex, age, religion, disability, neurodiversity, orientation, gender identity or expression. We particularly encourage those currently under-represented in the animal movement to join our team – individuals who are Black, Indigenous or People of the Global Majority, a person who is differently abled, and people who are LGBTQIA+.

We endeavour to make all our events and activities as inclusive as possible, with accessibility at the forefront of our minds - not as an afterthought.

If you prefer to apply in another way, or you have alternative requirements you’d like to discuss, please don’t hesitate to contact us  - please find our email address on the Role Profile document below.

Are you a passionate researcher who wants to make a real difference to the lives of animals and humans? We’re seeking talented experts to join our Scientific Advisory Panel and help us accelerate the development and adoption of non-animal research methods.

To reflect the diversity of technological approaches that replacing animals in science requires, we’re looking to grow our Scientific Advisory Panel and would like you to be part of it.

Our current panel is made up of 32 generous and talented professionals who give their time and expertise to help our mission: ensuring scientists use non-animal approaches in biomedical research and testing.

By volunteering on our panel, you’ll not only be a valued member of our charity, you’ll also have the opportunity to network with other experts, have your say on groundbreaking research, and influence real-world change.

“I feel very honoured to be part of this community. I hope I can support the charity in any way possible as I strongly believe we can at least greatly reduce the number of animals used in scientific research.” Current Scientific Advisory Panel member

The role: The main responsibilities of your role will include:

• Supporting the grant review process by undertaking peer review of grant applications.
• Advising and supporting the staff team in monitoring funded projects.
• Supporting our strategic goals of funding research, sharing information and creating change.
• Helping to champion FRAME’s mission and charitable purpose.

Estimated hours: Approx. ½ day – 4 days per year. We’ll need your expertise during late April to early May, and late September through October to review grant applications.

Experience desired: We’re looking for panel members with scientific research experience most likely from an industry or academic background. This experience may relate to basic, translational, applied research, or regulatory testing in any area that is, or would benefit from human-relevant methods. This includes areas where laboratory animals have been used historically or are still widely used today but non-animal approaches are now being developed. Our current panel includes experts from such varied fields as bone tissue engineering and metabolomics through to neuropharmacology and ecotoxicology, and we welcome applications from diverse specialisms. The greater the diversity, the better!

Please note: All applicants should hold a PhD and be a named author on at least one published paper in a relevant research area.

Salary: This is a voluntary role, with free travel and trip allowances

Are you passionate about adventure, travel, and making a positive impact for animals? Join us at Adventures for Animals, a community and fundraising group supported by International Aid for the Protection and Welfare of Animals (IAPWA). As an Adventure Coordinator you will embark on an incredible journey to lead exciting trips while supporting a meaningful cause.

You will play a vital role in promoting and organising adventurous trips, both within the UK and overseas, for the Adventures for Animals community. Reporting to Nicky Stevens, Founder of IAPWA, you will have the opportunity to inspire others, explore new destinations, and represent Adventures for Animals / IAPWA on unforgettable adventures.

Responsibilities

• Promote Exciting Trips: Take charge of promoting a minimum of 2 UK or overseas trips per year from a curated list of exciting adventures. Utilise your creativity and passion for adventure to generate interest and excitement among potential participants.
• Lead Adventure Expeditions: Once trips reach 50% capacity, you will secure a free place on the expedition. As the Adventure Coordinator, you will lead the group, ensure smooth logistics, and create memorable experiences for participants. Once the trip is at 100% capacity you will also receive a trip allowance.
• Coordinate Travel Logistics: Coordinate travel logistics, including securing return flights once 75% of the trip has been filled. Your attention to detail and organisational skills will ensure seamless travel arrangements for all participants.
• Represent Adventures for Animals & IAPWA: Serve as the face of Adventures for Animals and IAPWA on each trip, embodying our mission and values while fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among participants.
• Monthly Team Meetings: Commit to attending monthly team meetings with other Adventure Coordinators to collaborate, share insights, and contribute to the growth of the Adventures for Animals community.
• Organise Hikes and Events: While not essential, you will have the opportunity to organise hikes in the UK to promote the group and upcoming trips. These local events will engage the community and showcase the adventures that await.

Opportunities for the Right Candidate

• Explore Exciting Destinations: Travel to breathtaking locations and experience unforgettable adventures, all while making a positive impact for animals.
• Lead Adventure Expeditions: Once trips reach 50% capacity, you will be given a free place on the expedition. As the Adventure Coordinator, you will help to lead the group, ensure smooth logistics and create memorable experiences for participants. Once the trip is at 75% capacity you will be provided with free return flights for the adventure. Once the trip is at 100% capacity you will also receive a generous trip allowance.
• Coordinate Travel Logistics: Use your attention to detail and organisational skills to ensure seamless travel arrangements for all participants.
• Personal Growth and Development: Develop leadership skills, expand your network, and gain valuable experience in event coordination and community engagement.
• Make a Difference: By leading Adventures for Animals and representing IAPWA, you will play a crucial role in raising awareness and support for animal welfare initiatives.

If you’re an adventure enthusiast with a heart for animals and a desire to make a difference, we invite you to join us as an Adventure Coordinator at Adventures for Animals. Apply now and embark on a journey of a lifetime. Together, let’s make every adventure count for animals in need.

International Aid for the Protection & Welfare of Animals (IAPWA) was founded in 2009 and aims to provide protection and improve the welfare of animals in need. Our first project is based in Borneo, where we provide a lifeline to thousands of dogs and cats every year in need of veterinary care and support. Our companion animal programmes have since developed in other countries, including Romania and Penang Island, as well as support programmes to help other species.

We have recently relaunched our Auctions for Animals online fundraising events and are searching for enthusiastic volunteers to join our team to help source donations. Ideally our volunteers will have some experience in generating donations/prizes for events, or will be happy to spread the word within your local community and collect new or preloved donations for us. 

Tasks will include:

• Identifying suitable avenues for donations, creating and building relationships with our supporters and donors and helping to promote IAPWA within your local community.

• Assisting with the running of our monthly auction events via our Auctions For Animals Facebook Group.

• Packing and Posting sold items. 

Ideally you will;

• Enjoy promoting our charity within the community and help to generate a regular stream of donations. 

• Experience of using Google Docs/Sheets or willingness to learn.

• Be able to work independently and use your own initiative.

• Offer 1-3 hours per week (hours can be fully flexible)

• A passion to help raise funds for animals in our care

What we can offer you;

• Training and support from our Retail Manager and our Auction Team

• An opportunity to build your CV skills and develop your knowledge and experience.

• A chance to help increase the awareness of the important work we do at IAPWA.

• A fully flexible role that can fit around your schedule via remote working.

As a dog fosterer, you would be supporting the RSPCA in providing our dogs with the safety of your home whilst tending to their welfare needs such as feeding and grooming. In addition to this, by providing a temporary loving environment, you will play a crucial role in a dog’s wellbeing and socialisation, which will significantly improve their chances of successful rehoming.

Once everything is in place, the animal centre will guide you through the fostering process and ensure that you have all the necessary equipment, food, and veterinary care for your fostered dog. The RSPCA is also happy to reimburse any other pre-agreed expenses that you may incur through volunteering for us.

Whilst our dogs are in your foster care, you will:

-       Provide them with care, suitable housing, and a safe environment as per our policies and guidelines.

- Feed, water, and groom them in line with our advice.

- Transport them to any veterinary appointments if required.

- Provide them with your time and patience.

- Help us spread the word about the dogs in your care so they might find their forever home quicker.

- Playing and cuddles are also a must as well as a comfy bed!

                                                                                                                                                                                                       What we are looking for in a volunteer Dog Fosterer

- Volunteers aged 18 or over who have had plenty of experience caring for dogs.

- You will need a secure garden and plenty of time to spend with our dog.

- Fostering experience is beneficial but not essential as training is provided.

- For their wellbeing, our dogs need the whole family to be on board and supportive.

- Any existing pets or animals need to have been spayed/neutered (some medical reasons may mean they can’t be so, please let us know if this is the case).

                                                                                                                                                                                              What we can offer you as a volunteer Dog Fosterer:

- You will be making a massive difference to the welfare of the dogs in your care.

- Join a community which will enable you to meet new people and make new friends.

- Learning new skills through our comprehensive induction and fostering training programme.

- Enhance your CV by adding your volunteering experience and newly acquired skills.

It is worth mentioning that our dogs do have different needs as whilst some are ready for rehoming others may require rehabilitation or ongoing medication. Therefore, we also aim to understand your situation and circumstances to ensure that we match you with your perfect foster dog.

Location based Altrincham,  Sale,  Knutsford,  Northwich,  Hale,  Timperley

Are you an animal lover with a passion for making a difference? The International Companion Animals Management Coalition (ICAM) is seeking a dedicated and experienced volunteer to join our team as a Social Media Officer!

At ICAM Coalition, we are committed to ensuring the well-being and humane management of companion animals worldwide. In this position, you will play a vital role in amplifying our mission and raising awareness through the power of social media.

This volunteer role offers you the chance to make a lasting impact on the lives of companion animals while enhancing your social media skills and gaining valuable experience in digital advocacy within the charity sector.

Join our dedicated team of animal welfare advocates and be part of a global movement that promotes compassion and effective care for companion animals. If you are interested in becoming a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves please get in touch with us.

We are looking for cat-loving volunteers to play a vital role in helping us improve the wellbeing of the cats in our care whilst they wait to be rehomed. Can you help them by providing a calm and caring home whilst we find their purrfect forever home

The Cheshire Altrincham Branch covers a large area of Cheshire and we work closely with the Inspectors to provide direct animal welfare services in our area.

The main activity of our branch is to rehome cats, dogs and other animals. We rely on fosterers to look after and care for our animals until we can find them their forever homes.

As a cat fosterer, you would be supporting the RSPCA in providing our cats with the safety of your home whilst tending to their welfare needs such as feeding and grooming. In addition to this, by providing a temporary loving environment, you will play a crucial role in a cat’s wellbeing and socialisation, which will significantly improve their chances of successful rehoming.

 Once everything is in place, the animal centre will guide you through the fostering process and ensure that you have all the necessary equipment, food, and veterinary care for your fostered cat. The RSPCA is also happy to reimburse any other pre-agreed expenses that you may incur through volunteering for us.

Whilst our cats are in your foster care, you will:

• Provide them with care, suitable housing, and a safe environment as per our policies and guidelines.
• Feed, water, and groom them in line with our advice.
• Transport them to any veterinary appointments if required.
• Provide them with your time and patience.
• Help us spread the word about the cats in your care so they might find their forever home quicker.
• Playing and cuddles are also a must! 
•  

 What we are looking for in a volunteer Cat Fosterer:

• Volunteers aged 18 or over who have had plenty of experience caring for cats.

• Fostering experience is beneficial but not essential as training is provided.

• For their wellbeing, our cats need to be kept in a separate room, so the whole family should be on board.

• Any existing pets or animals need to have been spayed/neutered (some medical reasons may mean they can’t be, so please let us know if this is the case).

• Volunteers need to be based in the following areas:  Altrincham, Sale, Knutsford, Northwich, Hale, Timperley

What we can offer you as a volunteer Cat Fosterer:

• You will be making a massive difference to the welfare of the cats in your care.

• Join our lovely team of friendly cat fosterers and receive support from the branch manager as well as other fosterers in the team.

• Meet new people and make new friends.

• Learning new skills through our comprehensive induction and fostering training programme.

• Enhance your CV by adding your volunteering experience and newly acquired skills.

It is worth mentioning that our cats do have different needs as whilst some are ready for rehoming others may require rehabilitation or ongoing medication. Therefore, we also aim to understand your situation and circumstances to ensure that we match you with your perfect foster cat.

If this sounds like the purrfect role for you please apply now 

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and dependent on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.

Every bunny needs some bunny sometimes! Can you help foster our rabbits whilst we are looking for their forever home?

The Cheshire Altrincham Branch covers a large area of Cheshire and we work closely with the Inspectors to provide direct animal welfare services in our area. The main activity of our branch is to rehome cats, dogs and other animals. We rely on fosterers to look after and care for our animals until we can find them their forever homes.

You will be joining our lovely team of friendly rabbit fosterers and receive support from your branch manager and other fosterers in the team.

Often when we think about animal fostering, cats and dogs spring to mind, but have you ever thought about fostering rabbits? The RSPCA received more than 5,000 reports last year about rabbits relating to neglect or abandonment and rescued an average of 340 small furries a month! To help us with the rehoming of these rabbits, we are actively looking to add to our fantastic team of volunteer fosterers.

As a rabbit fosterer, you would play an essential role in providing the rabbits in our care with a temporary home whilst they are being rehomed. Like us, even small furries have specific needs and requirements, but rest assured, once we have guided you through the fostering process the animal centre will ensure that you have all the necessary guidance, equipment, food, and veterinary care.

When our rabbits are in your foster care, you will:

- Provide them with care, safe suitable housing, and space for playtime, as outlined in our policies and guidelines.

- Ensure that they are groomed if appropriate, and fed and watered (they eat a bundle of hay as big as  they are every day!)

- Provide them with suitable and clean bedding to keep them cosy.

- Give them lots of attention and plenty of cuddles as rabbits are very sociable animals.

- The RSPCA is happy to reimburse you for any pre-agreed expenses incurred through volunteering  for us.

What we are looking for in a volunteer Rabbit Fosterer

- Volunteers aged 18 or over who have had plenty of experience of caring for animals.

- Fostering experience is beneficial but not essential as training is provided.

- For their wellbeing, our rabbits may need to be fostered in pairs, so please bear this in mind.

- Any existing pets or animals need to have been spayed/neutered (some medical reasons may mean they can’t be so, please let us know if this is the case).

What we can offer you as a volunteer Rabbit Fosterer

- You will be making a massive difference to the welfare of the rabbits in your care.

- Join a community which will enable you to meet new people and make new friends.

- Learning new skills through our comprehensive induction and fostering training programme.

Enhance your CV by adding your volunteering experience and newly acquired skills.

Location Altrincham,  Sale,  Knutsford,  Northwich,  Hale,  Timperley

**Please Note** - Applicants will need to live in our Branch area East Norfolk.

Registered Charity No.206296

Could you be an RSPCA Trustee?

We are seeking a Finance Trustee/ Retail and Fundraising Trustee/ Marketing Trustee/Health & Safety and a Veterinary Trustee

Are you passionate about animal welfare?
Do you have professional experience that could help shape a local charity?

Here at RSPCA East Norfolk it is our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion. As a trustee you will have the chance to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals in our county. Could you join us?

We need your help...
RSPCA East Norfolk is seeking new trustees to join our Board. 

We welcome applications from anyone who has the desire to make a difference to animals in our county.

We are particularly keen to hear from those who have experience in one of the following areas:

Finance / Investments / Retail /Marketing / Fundraising /Health & Safety / HR
Veterinary 

Trustees are incredible volunteers and play an essential role in helping us carry out our vital animal welfare work every day by managing the affairs of your local RSPCA Branch to promote and provide animal welfare within the branch area.

Being a Trustee is an excellent opportunity to give back and gain skills and experience. As a Trustee of an independent local charity, you’ll have the chance to influence our strategy and development at a time that sees significant growth for us following a recent merger.

We meet on the second Tuesday evening once a month , currently virtually, and have opportunities to be involved in additional projects and committees if you wish. You’ll need to be committed to ensuring good governance, give some time to read papers prior to meetings and keep up-to-date with correspondence about important matters.

If you think you can help, we'd love to hear from you.

Job Types: Part-time, Permanent, Volunteer

We are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate person who could devote the time to volunteer with us as one of our Trustees. As a Trustee of the Branch, you will have the chance to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals and drive the implementation of key initiatives. You will serve on the governing body of the charity and be instrumental in the running of the Branch and setting out both the short and long term aims.

You will be volunteering with a small, but passionate and fun team made up of two admin staff, five retail and online sales staff, and a dedicated trustee board of five, from a range of backgrounds. 

We are a highly proactive, progressive and approachable branch, with a clear vision for the future - aiming for charitable excellence, a strong community focus, and a passion to support, signpost and advocate for our pet-owning community.

Among our animal welfare activities are schemes such as assisted neutering and microchipping, welfare events such as free microchipping and clinic sessions, provision of a local pet food bank, family fun day events in aid of animal welfare, and the delivery of educational materials - created by the branch team, for our younger audiences.

We support RSPCA frontline teams within our local area, and we are always keen to take on new challenges and innovative ways to fundraise and work alongside those in our community who need our support. 

The insights and skills of our trustees are the key to the future direction of the branch. 

As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a monthly committee meeting lasting some 2 to 3 hours. However, the commitment may vary depending on whether or not the trustee takes on additional duties.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee

• Appreciate and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA.
• Work in conjunction with fellow trustees and branch officers and jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of the branch and the RSPCA.
• Work with national RSPCA staff to ensure that the branch meets all minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS).
• In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch Support Specialist write, adopt, monitor, and review a development plan setting out the short and long term aims of your branch.
• Actively participate in branch committee meetings and to attend the branch annual general meeting and regional conference.
• Be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support local initiatives.
• Actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch trustees and volunteers and welcome new members.
• In conjunction with your fellow trustees, ensure the proper management and control of all activities and decisions relating to any premises held or staff employed by the branch if applicable.

What we are looking for in a volunteer

We are looking for people from all social and cultural backgrounds, with experience and skills in any of the following areas:

• Marketing communication including social media, PR, website;
• Fundraising including corporate fundraising, trust fund and grant applications;
• Local community and supporter relationships;
• Hands-on experience in growing charities; and/or
• Are or have been part of the groups and communities we would like to attract.

Alongside the relevant experience, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare. You would be creative, innovative, bring a fresh perspective, and can put ideas into action.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Trustee

• We will provide you with a comprehensive trustee training course which will provide you with everything you need to carry out the role.
• Ongoing support is also provided by local and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch.
• The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare.
• The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals.
• A way to expand your professional and personal network through working with like-minded people.

Ideally we would want a Trustee within the Sunderland, Hartlepool, South Tyneside, Newcastle, Gateshead or Durham area. However, the position can be done mostly via remote means - and so, you can be located anywhere in the country.

We're looking for enthusiastic and passionate people to help shape the strategy of our branch, maximising our income to help us deliver maximum benefit to the animals we serve.

The key activities of the role are:

• Appreciate and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA - Work in conjunction with fellow trustees and branch officers and jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of the branch and the RSPCA.
• Work with national RSPCA staff to ensure that the branch meets all minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS) - In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch Partnership Manager write, adopt, monitor, and review a development plan setting out the short and long term aims of your branch.
• Actively participate in branch committee meetings and to attend the branch annual general meeting and regional conference.
• Be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support local initiatives.
• Actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch trustees and volunteers and welcome new members - In conjunction with your fellow trustees, ensure the proper management and control of all activities and decisions relating to any premises held or staff employed by the branch.

We are looking for people from all social and cultural backgrounds, with experience and skills in any of the following areas: Strategic planning; Finance including accounting, budgeting; Marketing communication including social media, PR, website; Fundraising including corporate fundraising, trust fund and grant applications; Local community and supporter relationships; Hands-on experience in growing charities; and/or you are or have been part of the groups and communities we would like to attract.

Alongside the relevant experience, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare. You would be creative, innovative, bring a fresh perspective, and can put ideas into action.

The role is largely home based, but we have veterinary clinics in Chelmsford and Colchester, plus 4 charity shops (Frinton, Maldon, Chelmsford & Lexden).

As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a monthly committee meeting lasting some 2 to 3 hours. However, we are a busy branch requiring 2-3 hours additional commitment per week from our Trustees.

Overview of Opportunity

By volunteering at our cattery, you would be helping us get through the essential tasks so we can spend extra time with our cats. As well as assisting with their feeding and the cleaning of the cattery, you will also be working closely with the team allowing you to get more involved and learn new skills. This opportunity to help our cats is extremely rewarding, knowing that you have improved their welfare and made them happy whilst they are waiting for their forever home. 

The RSPCA Middlesex North West & South Hertfordshire Branch

The RSPCA Middlesex North West & South Hertfordshire Branch is one of the branches of RSPCA, but we are also a separately registered charity looking after animals in our local area. Much of the animal welfare work of RSPCA is carried out through local branches, which are run by volunteers who have the support of the National Society of RSPCA.

Volunteer Cattery Assistant responsibilities

- Preparing and providing food and water for the cats in the cattery.

- Cleaning, disinfecting and maintaining the cattery to a high standard of cleanliness, so our cats are as comfortable as possible.

- Following the health and safety procedures in place at the centre and ensuring that they are always observed.

- Spend time with cats in the cattery pens, actively playing with the cats and encouraging mobility from the cat.

- Keep records updated as directed by the rehoming staff.

- Adhere to any other guidelines and notices about the welfare of the cats in the cattery. Groom and socialise the cats, being mindful that each will have their own temperament and character.

- Liaise with colleagues in the centre, branch staff and volunteers and update them on the cat’s welfare when needed.

What we are looking for in a volunteer Cattery Assistant

- Someone with knowledge of cats and can read their behaviour.

- Is comfortable around cats and has a patient and understanding nature.

- Can carry out physical tasks.

- Someone who is flexible and can offer an ongoing commitment predominantly a morning slot from 8.30 am to 11 am or an afternoon slot from 2 pm to 5 pm.

- Able to work within a team but also capable of working with minimal supervision.

- Has a level of resilience as you will see the result of neglect and cruelty at first-hand.

- Volunteers need to be aged 18 or over.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Cattery Assistant

- A way to meet new people, and make new friends in your local area.

- A place where you will learn excellent new skills to add to your CV.

- An excellent induction and training programme relevant to your role.

- A fun environment at the heart of the local community.

- The opportunity to make a huge difference to the welfare of the cats in our care.

We hope you are interested in volunteering at our animal centre!

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees and dependent on the position you may be required to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.

Help our reserves and monitoring team contributing data to a national monitoring scheme by walking along an existing butterfly transect route and recording the animals.

Locations:
• Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve or
• Nashenden Down or
• Stonelees Nature Reserve or
• South Blean Woods
• Queendown Warren Nature Reserve
• Darland Banks

Please note this is weekly for 6 months April - September

Why do we need you?

Butterfly transect surveys are an extremely important method of robustly measuring changes in butterfly populations. Some of the existing transects have been carried out for many years giving a fantastic amount of data on how our management of the woods is affecting butterflies. We will need your help walking these transects on a weekly basis or sharing a transect with someone else and identifying butterfly species.

What will you be doing?

• Walking a fixed route through the above reserves once a week in suitable weather conditions (ideally in the middle portion of the day)

Identifying and recording butterfly species

Experience, knowledge and skills for this role:

• Experience conducting surveys
• Butterfly identification skills
• Willing to work alone
• A passion for nature and wildlife

What does the volunteer need:

• A drivers license
• Own vehicle
• Own computer
• DBS Check
• A smart phone

Aspects to consider before applying:

• Reasonable expenses can be paid
• You will need to be fairly physically fit as some of the grazing areas have rough terrain, tussocks, boggy ground etc. that you need to be able to negotiate.
• The volunteer role is open to applicants over the age of 16