Consultation Opens on Revised Welfare & Operational Standards

The consultation on the proposed revised ADCH Minimum Welfare & Operational Standards is now open, following discussion at the recent Open Meeting and the ADCH Conference. The revised standards form part of ADCH’s ongoing commitment to promoting standards of animal welfare across the rescue and rehoming sector.

This comprehensive review has resulted in a restructured framework that sets an objective for the welfare of animals coming into organisational care, with assessable standards to meet these objectives. There are also guidance notes and an expanded glossary. The revised standards embed the Five Domains model throughout and include simplified language to improve consistency and accessibility.

The review reflects the changing nature of rescue work, incorporating standards and guidance relevant to foster care, direct rehoming, temporary care and long-stay animals. While covering a broader range of operational models, the number of assessable standards which apply to any given setting has been streamlined where appropriate.

ADCH is keen to hear from as many people as possible across member organisations, including staff, volunteers, foster coordinators, veterinary teams, behaviour specialists and anyone involved in animal care and rehoming.

Members are encouraged to review the consultation documents and share them widely within their organisations. Feedback will help ensure the standards remain focused on animal welfare, practical to implement, supportive of good practice and relevant to future regulatory developments.

The consultation remains open for Full Members until 15 November 2026. A webinar will also be held to explain the proposed changes, outline the consultation process and answer members’ questions. Members can find full details of how to participate in the latest ADCH special bulletin of 06 October 2026.