Animal charities form group to share knowledge

Animal welfare charities across the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man have formed a group

Animal welfare charities across the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man have formed a new group to boost collaboration and share learning.

GSPCA manager Steve Byrne said the group brought together the GSPCA, JSPCA and ManxSPCA and allowed staff to discuss how each island operated its animal welfare services and the unique challenges they faced.

He said some of the issues discussed included dealing with strays and how the charities managed a 24/7 service in different ways.

In September, a virtual session was held and Mr Byrne said "valuable insights" about common issues and opportunities for future collaboration were discussed.

'Stronger together'

The new regional group has been formed under the Association of Dogs and Cats Homes.

Mr Byrne said: "We talked about animal welfare issues... to the ways we rehome animals and the approaches we each take."

He said the charities all faced similar challenges and shared ideas and experiences that would help them grow "stronger together".

"The first meeting was a great success, and we're excited to build on this momentum," Mr Byrne added.

The next meeting will be held virtually on 17 November with plans to expand participation to include other animal charities across the islands and organisations.