RSPCA creates temporary trustees network to help local local branches

The RSPCA is looking to create a “pool of temporary trustees” to be called on to help local branches in financial difficulty and facing other organisational problems.

There are currently 150 local branches under the RSPCA brand that are separately registered charities.

The animal welfare charity’s national recruitment campaign for temporary trustees says they will be needed to provide leadership and advice to guide branches through “challenges and to a position where local trustees can be recruited and appointed”.

Challenges the temporary trustees are expected to help with include financial problems, staffing issues, health and safety concerns and a lack of local trustees.

“Through no fault of their own, from time to time a branch may fall into national administration and need some extra help, which is why the RSPCA is looking to recruit a pool of temporary trustees who will be able to provide leadership to a branch during challenging periods,” said the RSPCA.

Sandra Fruish, assistant director of branches, partnerships and volunteering at the charity added: “This is an exciting opportunity to become involved with the RSPCA in an important role which can really make a difference.

“Trustees make a tremendous contribution to the work we do to prevent animal cruelty and alleviate the suffering of animals. Anyone who signs up to be a trustee will be playing an important role in helping scores of animals that desperately need our help.

“Much of the vital animal welfare work carried out by branches is only possible thanks to the support of their dedicated team of staff and volunteers who work tirelessly for the cause.

“Whilst many people would love to work directly with the animals, this isn’t always possible due to the commitments of modern-day life; but, by giving up a few hours a week as a trustee, people can make a real difference helping the animals in RSPCA care.”

The charity adds that it is interested in recruiting trustees from “all social and cultural backgrounds”, especially those with experience in areas such as governance, administration, finance, human resources, strategy and planning.