'Active Talks' To Save Southall Cattery
RSCPA have decided to close facility but may transfer to another charity
A consultation by the RPSCA into the finances of the charity has ended and the recommendation to close their Southall Cattery and the Putney Animal Hospital has been confirmed.
The charity says that drastic action was needed due to a forecasted £47million hole in its finances has ended.
However, in making the announcement they have revealed that there are active talks with another charity to transfer the Southall clinic and cattery. Cats being cared for at the Southall Cattery will be moved to other RSPCA animal centres and branches for rehoming if discussions with the other charity do not progress.
The RSPCA started a consultation with staff and the union in June over a proposal to refocus activities which will mean losing around 270 roles and closing four sites in the South including the Southall and Putney facilities.
Director of Field Operations, John Kerslake, said, “This is a very sad decision and we know it will be disappointing for staff, volunteers and the local community.
“We appreciate the views and proposals put forward during the consultation about the amazing work of Putney and Southall. Each of the proposals was considered at the highest level and discussed with hospital and centre staff, but unfortunately they would not deliver the urgent cost savings needed or support the objective to rebalance the provision of service across England and Wales.
“We have to take action to reduce the running costs now to make sure the RSPCA is able to continue rescuing animals.
“We have more sites in the South, concentrated in London and the surrounding area, than other parts of England and Wales and we have another animal hospital a few miles away across London.”
The RSPCA says it is facing a £25 million deficit this year, which has been made much worse by the coronavirus pandemic, rising to a potential £47m black hole over the next three years.
They say they are working closely with another charity who are actively increasing the volume of these services in the postcode areas covered by Putney and Southall Clinic. They will also be working with local vets to give them support regarding potential new clients.
August 12, 2020