Association of Dogs and Cats Homes

July ADCH Fundraisers Forum
2023-07-18 11:00 - 12:00 UTC | Virtual Event
About this Event
The forum is aimed at ADCH Member fundraisers of all levels and plans to provide fundraisers with a platform to collaborate and share ideas to benefit local animal welfare organisations.
Lisa Harrison, Fundraising Manager for National Animal Welfare Trust, will be hosting the July meeting on Tuesday 18th of July 2023, 11am-12pm via Zoom.
We are excited to now share the details of the guest speakers at our upcoming forum meeting on the 18th July at 11am. Please see below:
We will have two gues speakers from Guardaian Angel, who will deliver a presentation on ‘Utilising a free wills service within your legacy programme’. Katie Wimpenny (Senior Partnership Manager) & Dylan Burke (Head of Charity Partnerships) will cover an overview of how Guardian Angel’s services and campaigns work and share some of their top tips and insights on how Members can utilise a free wills service within their legacy programmes.
This session will be delivered in first half of the meeting, with the remainder of the meeting to be for questions, informal discussion and idea and solution sharing between the forum.
Who can attend
This event is available for ADCH Members.
Cost to attend
There is no cost to attend.
Registration
You will need to pre-register for forum by clicking here. You will receive an email with your meeting link, please do keep this safe so you can access the meeting.

ADCH Open Meeting November 2023
2023-11-07 09:30 - 15:30 | The Vale Resort, Hensol Park, Hensol, Vale of Glamorgan, CF72 8JY
About this Event
Hosted by Hope Rescue, this will be our final Open Meeting for 2023.
Who can attend
This event is for ADCH Members and invited Sponsors.
Location
The Vale Resort, Hensol Park, Hensol, Vale of Glamorgan, CF72 8JY
Event Details
In addition to news from ADCH, we will have important updates on legislation (including a session on American Bully XL).
Peter Laurie will be presenting on ‘One Health – what it is, why it’s important, and what we as a sector
can do about it‘ and Rachel Jackson will be delivering ‘I like the way you move – Movement Matters’, a workshop on gait analysis.
There will of course be plenty of opportunity to catch-up with colleagues from the sector.
Full agenda can be found here.
For those arriving the day before (6 November), there will be a 3-course dinner with entertainment.
Arrival for the dinner is from 7.00 pm, to be seated to dine at 7.30pm. Menu will be available shortly.
Hope Rescue are kindly facilitating tours of their sites on the afternoon of 6 November and 7 November. Further details will be provided after booking your ticket.
Cost to attend
The Open Meeting is free to attend for Members and invited Sponsors. Refreshments and lunch will be provided.
For those staying over and dining with us on 6 November the costs below (which includes use of leisure facilities) are: –
Single occupancy – bed, breakfast, dinner and meeting attendance £140
2 people sharing – bed, breakfast, dinner and meeting attendance £220
There are a limited number of rooms secured at this rate so please book early to avoid disappointment.
Registration
Online registration for this event is now closed. Please contact events@adch.org.uk to enquire about availability.

ADCH Virtual Open Meeting
2024-03-12 10:00 - 14:00 | Virtual Event
About this Event
Our first Open Meeting of 2024 will be held virtually via Zoom on Tuesday 12th March at 10:00. In conjucntion with the Open Meeting, we plan to hold two sessions which we believe will be relevant and useful to members.
You can view or download the full agenda here.
Who can attend
This event is available for ADCH Members and invited Sponsors.
Cost to attend
There is no cost to attend the Open Meeting.
Registration
You can pre-register for the meeting by clicking here.

ADCH AGM and Virtual Open Meeting
2024-07-02 10:00 - 14:00 | Virtual Event
About this Event
10:00 – 11:00       The ADCH Annual General Meeting (AGM)
We invite all voting Members (Full Members) to join us for our virtual AGM.
The AGM is an opportunity for us to reflect on the past year and to understand ADCH plans for the year ahead.
We will also be confirming the results of the Trustee Elections.
The full agenda can be found here 2024 AGM Agenda
The Minutes of the last Meeting can be found here AGM DRAFT MINUTES 06042023
The Trustees Report and Annual Accounts for 2023 can be found here 2. TRUSTEES’ REPORT & ANNUAL ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31122023
Following a short screen break, we will welcome all Members (including Affiliate and Provisional) to join us for the following presentations:
11:15 -12:15       Supporting our Volunteers, Jenny Whyte, Trustee, Scottish Staffordshire Bull Terrier Rescue
Jenny Whyte, a Trustee at the Scottish Staffordshire Bull Terrier Rescue and an experienced voluntary management consultant with Cranfield Trust, will be speaking about strategies to support our volunteers. Her focus will be on promoting their wellbeing and enhancing their resilience.
12:20 -13:20       Responsible Dog Ownership Course (RDOC), Kerry Taylor, Education Officer, Blue Cross
Kerry White, Education Officer at Blue Cross, will be presenting the Responsible Dog Ownership Course (RDOC). This session will explore the motivation behind its creation, the delivery methods they employ, and the current progress of the programme. Designed as an online course for police and local authorities, to provide education and knowledge for low level Section 3 Offences. The course aims to encourage positive changes for owners and their dogs and to enhance safer communities
Who can attend
This event is available for ADCH Members. Note: Only Voting Members can attend the AGM 10 – 11
Cost to attend
There is no cost to attend the AGM or Open Meeting.
Registration
Registration in advance is required. Register here.

ADCH Virtual Open Meeting - September 2024
2024-09-10 10:00 - 14:00 | Virtual Event
About this Event
Our third Open Meeting of 2024 will be held virtually via Zoom on Tuesday 10th September at 10:00.
In addition to updates on the work of ADCH, there will be two guest presentations: –
An introduction to Human Behaviour Change and how this approach can help animal welfare charities
Join Kerry Taylor (Blue Cross) and Chris Bennet (Woodgreen) for an introduction into Human Behaviour Change and how we can help pets through people.
Update from AMDO (Association of Microchip Database Operators)
Representatives from AMDO will be providing an update on what they have achieved, their engagement with DEFRA and how to deal with the databases and any complaints.
You can view the full programme here.
Who can attend
This event is available for ADCH Members and invited Sponsors.
Cost to attend
There is no cost to attend the Open Meeting.
Registration
You can pre-register for the meeting by clicking here.

ADCH Open Meeting
2024-11-12 | Leonardo Royal Hotel Brighton Waterfront, Kings Road, Brighton, BN1 2GS
About this Event
Join us for the final Open Meeting of 2024 hosted by RSPCA Sussex North & Brighton Branch. This event is exclusively for ADCH Members and invited Sponsors and offers an opportunity for learning, networking, and collaboration.
Location
Leonardo Royal Hotel Brighton Waterfront, Kings Road, Brighton, BN1 2GS
We are pleased to share that we have some very informative speakers on important topics for our sector. Please see the full agenda for the meeting here.
Event Details
Open Meeting

Date: 12 November
Time: Registration from 9.30 AM, Start at 10:00 AM, Close for lunch at approx, 1:30 PM
Cost: Attendance is free for Members and invited Sponsors.
Lunch and refreshments: Refreshments and lunch will be provided. Please advise of any dietary requirements when booking.

We are pleased to share that we have some very informative speakers on important topics for our sector. Please see the full agenda for the meeting here.
Pre-Open Meeting Dinner

Date: 11 November
Time: Arrival from 7:00 PM, Dinner at 7:30 PM
Cost: £40 per person

To book dinner and Open Meeting attendance without accommodation, please email events@adch.org.uk.
Host site tours

Dates: 11 & 12 November
Times: 14:00, 14:30, 15:00
Details: RSPCA Sussex North & Brighton Branch are kindly offering site tours. Delegates will be asked to pre-book their timeslot after registering.

Accommodation
We have reserved rooms at Leonardo Royal Hotel Brighton Waterfront on 11 November, at the following rates: –

Single Occupancy B&B: £120
Twin/Double Occupancy B&B: £135

Limited number of rooms reserved. Please book early to avoid disappointment.
Registration
Registration is now open. Please book your tickets below.
If you are booking a residential ticket you will be given the option to pay by card or BACS when you checkout.
Contact Information
For any queries, please contact us at events@adch.org.uk

ADCH Virtual Open Meeting
2025-03-18 10:00 - 13:00 | Virtual Event
About this Event
Our first Open Meeting of 2025 will be held virtually via Zoom on Tuesday 18th March at 10:00.
Join us for our first Open Meeting of 2025, where you’ll receive key updates on our work and have the opportunity to share your own. This virtual meeting will also feature:
Helping You Apply ADCH Minimum Welfare and Operational Standards in Your Rescue
Members of ADCH’s Standards & Animal Welfare Committee will host a session focused on key standards that members frequently have queries about. We will look at standards for dogs and cats to help Members understand how the standards discussed apply in their organisation. We will have an opportunity for you to ask any questions in advance.
Employment Law Update: Understanding the Employment Rights Bill, Citation
2024 was a year of unprecedented employment law change: from holiday pay and entitlement to new types of leave and requirements around preventing workplace harassment, there’s been a lot to keep track of. The publication of the new Labour government’s Employment Rights Bill in October also set out further big, proposed changes to employment rights across Great Britain. This session, led by Director of Employment Law, Gill McAteer, will give you an overview of all the critical updates you need to know about, so you can stay informed and prepared. She’ll cover…

A recap of the Employment Law changes from 2024 including the new Sexual Harassment law that came into force in October 2024
An overview of the Employment Rights Bill and its significant proposals for employment law, including proposed changes to zero hours contracts and sick pay
The steps you need to take to ensure your organisation is compliant

View the full programme here: March 2025 Open Meeting Programme
Who can attend
This event is open to ADCH Members and invited Supporters.
Cost to attend
Attendance is free of charge.
Registration
Secure your place by registering here.

Disclaimer
The Association of Dogs and Cats Homes (ADCH) provides a platform for various speakers during its events and in its materials. Please note that ADCH does not endorse or validate every element of the presentations or information shared by speakers. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official position or policies of ADCH. Attendees are encouraged to use their discretion and critical judgment when interpreting and applying the information provided.

ADCH AGM and Virtual Open Meeting
2025-07-15 10:00 - 12:45 | Virtual Event
About this Event
10:00 – 10:50 The ADCH Annual General Meeting (AGM)
We invite all voting Members (Full Members) to join us for our virtual AGM.
The AGM is an opportunity for us to reflect on the past year and to understand ADCH plans for the year ahead.
We will also be confirming the results of the Trustee Elections.
The full agenda can be found here.
The Minutes of the last Meeting can be found here.
The Trustees Report and Annual Accounts for 2024 can be found here.
11:00 – 12:45 Virtual Open Meeting
Following a short screen break, we will welcome all Members (including Affiliate and Provisional) to join us for our second Open Meeting of the year, which will include:
The human side of animal welfare: how sector changes are affecting our teams
Izzy Tutcher, Leicester Animal Aid
An exploration of how sector changes are placing greater strain on our teams, making staff wellbeing a growing priority.
We’ll examine the need for support, the challenges for frontline staff and managers, the benefits for animal welfare, available support and opportunities for collaboration.
Who can attend
This event is available for ADCH Members.
Please note: Only Voting Members can attend the AGM 10:00 – 10:50.
Cost to attend
There is no cost to attend the AGM or Open Meeting.
Registration
Registration in advance is required. Register here.

ADCH Virtual Open Meeting
2025-09-23 10:00 - 13:00 | Virtual Event
About this Event
Our next Open Meeting of 2025 will be held virtually via Zoom on Tuesday 23rd September at 10:00.
In conjunction with the Open Meeting, we will be joined by guest speaker Peter Newcombe from Cheltenham Animal Shelter, who will deliver a session for members titled ‘Doing More With Less.’
You can view the full programme here.
You can view a draft copy of the minutes from our last Open Meeting, held on the 15 July 2025, on our ‘Previous Events’ page here.
Who can attend
This event is available for ADCH Members and invited Sponsors.
Cost to attend
There is no cost to attend the Open Meeting.
Registration
You can pre-register for the meeting by clicking here.

In-Person Open Meeting
2025-11-25 | Grand Hotel Gosforth Park, High Gosforth Park, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE3 5HN, Grand Hotel Gosforth Park, High Gosforth Park, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE3 5HN, United Kingdom
About this Event
Join us for the final Open Meeting of 2025 hosted by Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter. This event is exclusively for ADCH Members and invited Sponsors and offers an opportunity for learning, networking, and collaboration.
Location
Grand Hotel Gosforth Park, High Gosforth Park, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE3 5HN.
Event Details
Open Meeting

Date: Tuesday 25th November 2025
Time: Registration from 09:30, meeting start at 10:00, close for lunch at approx. 13:30
Cost: Attendance is free for Members and invited Sponsors.
Complementary Lunch and refreshments: Refreshments and lunch will be provided. Please advise of any dietary requirements when booking.

You can view the full meeting agenda here.
Host site tours

Dates: 24th & 25th November
Times: 14:00, 14:30, 15:00
Details: Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter are kindly offering site tours.

Pre-Open Meeting Dinner

Date: Monday 24th November 2025
Time: Arrival from 19:00, dinner at 19:30
Menu: Three-course set menu

Accommodation
Please note that rooms can not be booked through ADCH and bookings should be made directly with the hotel.
Accommodation bookings are to be done through the Central Reservations call centre.
The call centre is open Monday – Friday 08:00 – 18:30 and Saturday and Sunday 09:00 – 17:30
The phone number is 01912364111 option 1 for reservations and quote “Association of Dogs & Cats Homes”
Limited number of rooms available.
Contact Information
For any queries, please contact us at events@adch.org.uk.

ADCH Virtual Open Meeting
2026-03-17 10:00 - 12:00 | Virtual Event
About this Event
Our first Open Meeting of 2026 will be held virtually via Zoom on Tuesday 17 March at 10:00.
Attendees will receive key updates from ADCH, have the opportunity to share their own updates and hear from our guest speaker, Emma McGrath, Professional Support Solicitor at Citation, who will provide an overview of the new Employment Rights Act, highlighting what the changes mean for your organisation.
You can view the full programme here
You can view a draft copy of the minutes from our last Open Meeting, held on the 25 November 2025, on our ‘Previous Events’ page here
Who can attend
This event is open to ADCH Members and invited Supporters.
Cost to attend
Attendance is free of charge.
Registration
Secure your place by registering here.
Disclaimer
The Association of Dogs and Cats Homes (ADCH) provides a platform for various speakers during its events and in its materials. Please note that ADCH does not endorse or validate every element of the presentations or information shared by speakers. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official position or policies of ADCH. Attendees are encouraged to use their discretion and critical judgment when interpreting and applying the information provided.

ADCH AGM & Virtual Open Meeting
2026-07-14 10:00 - 12:45 | Virtual Event
About this Event
10:00 – 10:50: The ADCH Annual General Meeting (AGM)
We invite all voting Members (Full Members) to join us for our virtual AGM, which will be held on Tuesday 14 July 2026.
The AGM is an opportunity for us to reflect on the past year and to understand ADCH plans for the year ahead.
We will also be confirming the results of the Trustee Elections.
11:00 – 12:45: Virtual Open Meeting
Following a short screen break, we will welcome all Members (including Affiliate and Provisional) to join us for our second Open Meeting of the year, which will include a guest speaker session.
Who can attend
This event is available for ADCH Members and invited Sponsors only.
Please note: Only Voting Members can attend the AGM.
Cost to attend
There is no cost to attend the AGM or Open Meeting.
Registration
Registration in advance is required. Register here.

ADCH Virtual Open Meeting
2026-09-22 10:00 - 12:00 | Virtual Event
About this Event
Our third Open Meeting of 2026 will be held virtually via Zoom on Tuesday 22 September at 10:00.
Attendees will receive key updates from ADCH, have the opportunity to share their own updates and hear from a guest speaker on a topic that we believe will be relevant and useful to members.
Further details and the full programme will follow in due course.
Who can attend
This event is open to ADCH Members and invited Supporters.
Cost to attend
Attendance is free of charge.
Registration
Secure your place by registering here.
Disclaimer
The Association of Dogs and Cats Homes (ADCH) provides a platform for various speakers during its events and in its materials. Please note that ADCH does not endorse or validate every element of the presentations or information shared by speakers. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official position or policies of ADCH. Attendees are encouraged to use their discretion and critical judgment when interpreting and applying the information provided.

ADCH In-Person Open Meeting
2026-11-24 | TBC, United Kingdom
About this Event
Save the date for our final Open Meeting of 2026, which will be held in person on Tuesday 24 November 2026.
Further details, including the host, location and full programme, will follow in due course.
Who can attend
This event is exclusively for ADCH Members and invited Sponsors and offers an opportunity for learning, networking, and collaboration.
Cost to attend
Attendance is free of charge.
