When it comes to enriching your life in the New Year, taking up some volunteer work is a great way to get involved with your community, meet new friends and make a positive difference.
And what better way to lend a hand than to volunteer for the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA)? Remember the phrase 'pets aren't just for Christmas'? Unfortunately, some people seem to have forgotten it...
Founded in a London coffee shop way back in 1824 as the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SCPA), it's the world's oldest animal welfare organisation and became the RSPCA in 1840, with Queen Victoria's patronage. Since then, the RSPCA has worked tirelessly for animal rights, from getting bear-baiting banned in 1835 to its wide range of current campaigns.
With a huge number of branches, regional animal centres and wildlife hospitals, there's bound to be a suitable volunteering opportunity in your area – track down your local RSPCA here and have a chat about getting involved.
Anyone can volunteer, though there are limited opportunities for those aged under 16, and there's a wide range of roles on offer – from drivers, charity shop helpers and animal fostering, to carers, administrators and maintenance workers. An induction programme and training is provided for each role. You'll find a list of the current RSPCA volunteer vacancies here.
Whether you'd like to volunteer on your own, with a loved one, as a family or alongside a group of friends, the RSPCA would love to hear from you!
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