The potential closure of kennel accommodation at the RSPCA’s Lancashire East Branch animal centre near Accrington is being considered as part of proposed operational changes.
The branch, which has been based at Huncoat since the 1970s, is facing severe financial and operational challenges due to a downturn in legacy income.
Trustees are proposing a move to a different operating model to enable the independent, self-funding charity to safeguard its animal welfare work, both now and in the future.
The proposals include rehabilitating and rehoming dogs through the branch’s network of foster carers and closing the kennel accommodation for the foreseeable future.
Cats are already looked after in foster homes.
Branch chief executive James Stevens said: “We’re naturally devastated to be having to consider these changes, but as an independent, self-funding charity, which relies on the support of local animal lovers to fund its ongoing operations, we’re having to look at more cost-effective options.
“Like many small charities, we’re facing very challenging times. Our animal centre is more than 50 years old and needs a significant amount of structural work.
"Legacy income has seen a substantial decline in recent years, while utility and veterinary bills have gone up sharply and the cumulative effects of things like the rise in National Insurance contributions and the near 50 per cent cumulative increase in the minimum wage since 2020 have seen our staffing costs increase by over 31 per cent despite the charity having halved the number of kennels and animal care staff during the same period.
“We’ve been drawing down on our reserves for a number of years now, but it’s simply not sustainable longer term, and we’re currently looking at a deficit of around £180,000 by the end of 2026.
“We are therefore having to consider mothballing the kennel accommodation and moving entirely to an expanded fostering and foster-to-adopt system.
“Thanks to our wonderful supporters, we already have a well-established foster network in place and have a lot of expertise in this area.
“We know that foster homes play an essential role in helping animals transition from difficult circumstances and provide the stability that many cats and dogs need.
"A home environment can be life-changing for animals who are worried or fearful, and it can also be hugely beneficial for young and older animals, so moving to this model has real animal welfare benefits.
“Of course, we fully recognise these operational changes will mean restructuring and reducing the available animal roles at the centre, and our responsibility now is to consult with those staff who might be impacted by the changes.
READ MORE: Blackpool Pleasure Beach celebrates 130 years with discounts for locals
READ MORE: ITV announces new 3-part Freddie Flintoff documentary starring his facial surgeon
READ MORE: Met Office reveals exact places it's set to snow in East Lancashire as 10cm forecast
“As much as we value all the centre has done over the years, we need to be realistic about the financial challenges we’re facing and make sensible decisions that will allow us to continue delivering our much-needed animal welfare work in the future.”
The branch’s charity shop in Burnley, described as an important source of revenue, will continue to operate as normal.
Trustees are also looking at other ways to optimise use of the site’s land in the future, including the possible development of bookable dog walking or off-lead areas at the site.
Staff have been informed of the proposed changes, and the charity is entering into a period of consultation with those individuals who may be impacted by the change, which it is hoped will be completed by the end of March.
Anyone wishing to support the ongoing work of the branch by rehoming an animal, becoming a foster carer or making a donation can do so via the RSPCA Lancashire East Branch website.
Share