Our Origins
The journey of the Association of Dogs & Cats Homes (ADCH) began with a pivotal meeting on July 19th, 1984, chaired by Mr. Field-Fisher QC, then Chair of Battersea Dogs Home. The concept of forming an Association to unify efforts in animal welfare took shape, leading to the formal establishment of the Association of British Dogs Homes (ABDH) on February 14th, 1985.
Early Years and Evolution
In its initial phase, ABDH aimed to create a collaborative platform for member organisations to exchange ideas and improve practices related to the care and rehoming of lost and unwanted dogs.
Broadening Our Mission
By 1999, ADCH had 18 members and recognising the growing involvement with cat welfare the association was renamed the as the Association of British Dogs and Cats Homes and in 2003 this was changed to the Association of Dogs and Cats and Homes.
Rooted in collaboration
ADCH was established on the principle of collaboration and has always relied on the generous contributions of volunteers. Our success and continued growth are rooted in the goodwill and commitment of those who have and those who continue to give their time and effort freely. Today, more than 50 volunteers actively support our operations, and this number is increasing. Their invaluable contributions are crucial to advancing our mission and ensuring our ongoing impact in the animal welfare sector. We are deeply grateful for their dedication and the essential role they play within the sector.
Leadership and Milestones
In 2007, ADCH had 51 members and Clarissa Baldwin CBE, then Chief Executive of Dogs Trust, was elected Chair of the ADCH, succeeding Lt Col Duncan Green CBE. Clarissa chaired the Association for eight years. In 2015, Claire Horton CBE, then Chief Executive of Battersea, succeeded Clarissa as Chair. During her tenure, the organisation transitioned to a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO).
Today, Lt Col Duncan Green CBE, Clarissa Baldwin CBE, and Claire Horton CBE continue to serve as Honorary Vice Presidents of ADCH.
Recent Developments
In 2021, Giles Webber, Chief Executive of Birmingham Dogs Home, was elected Chair of the ADCH board, which comprises 13 trustees with extensive sector expertise.
Giles has been a dedicated volunteer for ADCH since 2015, initially serving on the management committee and later as a Trustee. His tenure has been marked by significant contributions, including a pivotal role in supporting members during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Association has continued to steadily flourish, with expanded member services, hosting the UK’s largest animal welfare Annual Conference for the rescue and rehoming sector and the steady establishment of a small staff team led by Executive Director Rebecca Cooper, who joined ADCH in 2023. Building on a strong foundation laid by their predecessors, the board and central team are driving ADCH’s new strategic plan, which will guide the Charity through to the end of the decade.
As we approach our 40th Birthday in 2025, we look forward to continuing our mission and expanding our reach in the years to come.
