Highlights from ADCH’s Virtual AGM 2025

Chair Giles Webber opened the meeting by welcoming attendees and highlighting key achievements from 2024. He acknowledged the scale and strength of the ADCH community over the past year, with 165 member organisations comprising more than 53,000 individuals (including staff, volunteers and fosterers), and celebrated the collective care of over 115,000 dogs and cats by members during the year. Giles noted record engagement across events, including the ADCH Annual conference, open meetings and online sessions, as well as increased volunteer involvement and progress in assessments. He also outlined developments in governance, finance and staffing, and thanked members, staff and volunteers for their continued commitment and impact.

Following this, Executive Director Rebecca Cooper shared updates on recent developments as ADCH marks its 40th anniversary year. She highlighted investment in volunteer support made possible by the Pets Foundation, including the launch of Regional Groups, training opportunities and new volunteer roles aimed at strengthening support for members. She also spoke about ADCH’s focus on wellbeing and skills development, and celebrated the success of the recent 2025 Conference. Rebecca closed by reaffirming the organisation’s commitment to inclusive support and long-term sustainability.

The annual accounts for 2024 were presented by Honorary Treasurer Yvonne Goddard. She reported a small surplus, which has been added to reserves, and highlighted how increased income from the 2024 Conference, particularly through sponsorship, enabled ADCH to subsidise delegate tickets- keeping prices low. While core costs increased slightly, ADCH remains in a stable financial position with a continued focus on delivering value for members.

Honorary Secretary Mike Webb followed with important announcements regarding the Board. Among the updates, Peter Hepburn was re-elected as a Trustee, continuing his valued contribution to the organisation. ADCH also welcomed two new Trustees: Vickie McDerby and Emma Harrison. Vickie, founder and trustee of Woodlands Animal Sanctuary in West Lancashire, has long supported ADCH through her work as a volunteer assessor, a member of the Member Engagement Committee and a conference speaker. Emma, Head of Volunteering at StreetVet, brings extensive sector experience and has volunteered as an ADCH assessor for over eight years.  Thanks were extended to the eight other candidates who stood for election but were not successful on this occasion. Their willingness to contribute to ADCH’s governance was warmly appreciated.

Special recognition was given to several outgoing Trustees. Nicola White stepped down after three years on the Board but will continue her involvement as a member of the Standards and Welfare Committee. Adam Clowes and Marina Fiddler, who both retired after six years of service, were thanked for their dedication and impact. Adam will remain active on the Standards and Welfare Committee, while Marina continues to contribute to the Member Engagement Committee. Their long-standing service was deeply appreciated.

Following the formal business of the AGM, members were invited to attend a compelling session titled “The Human Side of Animal Welfare: How Sector Changes Are Affecting Our Teams.” Delivered by Izzy Tutcher of Leicester Animal Aid, the session explored how changes in the sector are placing increasing pressure on staff and volunteers, making wellbeing a growing priority. Izzy discussed the need for effective support, the wider benefits for animal welfare, and opportunities for greater collaboration.

The event also featured updates from ADCH’s four working committees, a presentation on the progress of the Animal Charity Pharmacy initiative and valuable contributions from members and supporters.