A struggling animal shelter in Accrington has been given a temporary lifeline after an outpouring of public support.
The RSPCA Lancashire East had been facing closure due to financial difficulties — but a wave of donations has secured its future for at least three more months.
Community Raises £50,000
Local residents, community groups and businesses came together to raise an incredible £50,000, allowing the shelter to remain open until at least the end of June.
Support came from a wide range of contributors, including:
- Dog-walking fundraisers
- Brownie groups
- Accrington Stanley FC
The shelter described the donations as nothing short of a lifeline.
“We are quite simply lost for words,” said animal care manager Jeanette Ainscough, who has worked at the centre for over three decades.
Rising Costs Put Shelter At Risk
Despite being open for more than 50 years, the shelter has been struggling to keep up with rising costs.
Key challenges include:
- Increased utility and maintenance expenses
- Rising veterinary bills
- Staffing costs, which have grown by over 30% in six years
Even after reducing the number of kennels, the branch was still facing a projected £180,000 deficit by the end of the year.
Helping Animals In Desperate Need
The shelter cares for animals who often arrive in heartbreaking condition.
One example is Charlie, a brindle lurcher who was found severely underweight in an allotment. Thanks to the team’s care, he has made a remarkable recovery.
Stories like Charlie’s highlight just how vital the shelter’s work is for vulnerable animals.
Planning For A Sustainable Future
While the recent donations have bought time, the future of the shelter is still uncertain.
Staff are now exploring new ways to operate more sustainably, including:
- Expanding foster and foster-to-adopt programs
- Potentially reducing kennel spaces
- Introducing initiatives like bookable dog-walking experiences to raise funds
“There is still a long way to go,” said branch CEO James Stevens. “We need to review what we do to ensure we can continue helping the most traumatised animals.”
A Community That Stepped Up
For now, the shelter remains open — thanks entirely to the compassion of the local community.
The hope is that this momentum will continue, giving the organization a chance not just to survive, but to adapt and thrive in the future.
Because for the animals depending on it, this place means everything. 🐾