JSPCA asks for support in search for new base

An animal charity in Jersey is seeking a new home after being near St Helier for more than 100 years.

The Jersey Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (JSPCA) said its new hopes to move marked a "significant turning point" due to recent economic and staffing issues. It has had a presence on its current site for 113 years, since 1913.

President Lisa Springate said relocating was "not simply about finding another location" but instead "securing a rural, modern and future-proofed facility".

In March, the charity closed its assisted vet clinic due to staffing challenges and increases in demand. Its charity shop it St John's closed because of "ongoing economic pressures".

The charity said it had provided a "safe place" for animals in need, rehoming pets and supporting owners in difficult circumstances and it was appealing for financial and professional assistance to make the move possible.

Springate said: "We are asking anyone who may be able to help to come forward, in order that we can continue the essential work that is required for the next chapter."

She said any new site needed space for grooming facilities, exercise and enrichment areas, employee, volunteer and storage facilities, space and visitor access for an education centre, as well as an area for a charity, café and retail shop.

It said, without a new base, the shelter's ability to care for animals could be "significantly affected" as it was not generating sufficient income from its current site to cover overall operational costs.

The JSPCA said it had no government funding and relied solely on donations and legacies, costing it £4,000 a day to run.

Chief executive officer Pam Aubert added: "We know how much this shelter means to people locally - many families have adopted animals from us, volunteered with us, donated to us or turned to us when they needed help.

"Now we need that same community spirit to help us to find a new home."

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