Highlights from this Year’s In-Person Open Meeting
Our November Open Meeting took place on 12th November 2024 at the Leonardo Royal Hotel Brighton Waterfront.
We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who made the journey to join us in Brighton. This year’s agenda was crafted to address the current challenges facing the sector and the priorities of our members. We aimed to provide valuable takeaways to support member organisations, their staff, volunteers, and fosterers—reinforcing our shared commitment to the welfare of dogs, cats and those who care for them.
A heartfelt thank you to Jenny Eden, Branch Manager at our host venue, RSPCA Sussex North & Brighton, for her presentation on the remarkable work her team does, not only with dogs and cats but with a variety of other species. We’re also grateful to RSPCA Sussex North & Brighton for hosting guided site tours and warmly welcoming ADCH’s central team, trustees, and member organisations over the two days.
Following the warm welcome from our host, we were privileged to receive an insightful legislative update from David Bowles, ADCH Trustee and Legislative Committee Chair, and also Head of Public Affairs at the RSPCA, who was joined by Claire Bass, Senior Director of Campaigns and Public Affairs at Humane Society International/UK.
After a refreshment break, we were joined by guest speaker Tamsin Durston, Veterinary Nurse and Clinical Animal Behaviourist, who led a meaningful session on the wellbeing of shelter staff and volunteers. She shared valuable insights on managing burnout and compassion fatigue, along with strategies for prevention and methods of self-care.
Our final guest speaker session featured Catherine Gurney and Dr. Sue Patterson of the Animal Charity Pharmacy, who provided attendees with an update on the charity’s work to establish a low-cost pharmacy for ADCH members.
We extend our deepest thanks to all our sponsors who attended to connect with members, including Petplan UK, for their presentation about next year’s Animal Charity Awards and other organisational updates.
Finally, we’d like to thank ADCH Wellbeing Volunteer Gary Fielder for his generous support throughout the event, helping our small team make this event a success.
The ADCH central team and Board of Trustees sincerely appreciate everyone who attended, engaged, and shared insights at our final event of 2024.
