The Ulster Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (USPCA) has been a member of the Wil-U Family since 2023. In the past year, we have loved getting to know the retail team and understanding their mission.
The USPCA is a vital organisation dedicated to preventing cruelty and alleviating the suffering of both domestic animals and wildlife. Guided by its core mission and values, the USPCA works toward creating a society where animals are treated with respect and live free from unnecessary harm.
Founded in 1836 by Commander Francis Anderson Calder, the USPCA initially focused on the welfare of working horses. Their first initiative was to install water troughs across Belfast to aid the overworked animals. Within just a year of its founding, the USPCA successfully lobbied for an Act of Parliament, which extended protections against the cruel treatment of animals in Ireland. Over the years, the charity’s mission evolved, now focusing on the rehoming and protection of abused or abandoned animals.
Comprehensive Care and Activism for Every Animal
The USPCA’s flagship centre in Newry is the hub for all their rehoming efforts and animal care. It is also an essential source of income, housing their pet supplies store, which directly supports their charitable work. In addition, the Newry Centre is a vital part of the community, with staff overseeing approximately 5,000 calls each month about the safety and well-being of animals. The team’s dedication to their roles ensures the USPCA’s mission is carried out day in and day out. Staff also managed the distribution of over 7,000 food parcels to local food banks last year.
As the demand for animal welfare services grows, the USPCA’s impact has significantly expanded in recent years. For example, the charity’s wildlife rescue service has seen a dramatic increase in cases, with the number of rescues doubling over the past year to more than 1,000, highlighting the rising need for support in this area.
In addition, the USPCA is deeply committed to the prevention of animal cruelty. Its team conducts ongoing investigations into cases of abuse and neglect, working tirelessly to bring justice to vulnerable animals. The charity continues to lobby for stronger animal welfare legislation across Northern Ireland, driving systemic change to ensure better protection for animals and supporting the broader mission to improve the lives of all animals in the region.
The Importance of Volunteers and Community Support
The charity has grown significantly in recent years, expanding from its first charity shop in Banbridge to opening a fourth location in Belfast in the summer of 2024. The Banbridge store alone receives up to 1,000 donation bags every month, a true testament to the incredible support from the local community. These shops generate crucial income, helping the USPCA care for animals and wildlife across Ulster.
In the most recent annual report, USPCA CEO Nora Smith emphasised the resilience of their team: “I want to take a moment to highlight the remarkable resilience of our staff and volunteers. Their tireless work and compassion have not only transformed the lives of countless animals but have also strengthened our community bonds. Together, we have faced the challenges of the past year with determination, finding innovative solutions to continue our services."
Looking ahead, Smith added, “As we look to the future, we remain focused on expanding our impact and fostering a culture of compassion and respect for all living beings.”
How You Can Help
While the USPCA has had significant success in the last five years, it still needs financial support to continue its vital work. Donations are critical to supporting services and ensuring that more animals can be saved and rehomed.
We are proud to have the USPCA as part of our charity retail family. Their commitment to animals and the community aligns with our values, and we look forward to supporting them in their charity retail journey for many years to come.
If you’re interested in learning more about how Wil-U has helped USPCA or are seeking a new charity retail solution, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Together, we can continue to make a lasting impact on animals in need.
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