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At the national level, there is a 'National Control Centre', which receives all calls from members of the public, and tasks local Inspectors, some information AWOs or ACOs to respond to urgent calls.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.rspca.org.uk/utilities/contactus |title=Contact the RSPCA }}</ref>
At the national level, there is a 'National Control Centre', which receives all calls from members of the public, and tasks local Inspectors, some information AWOs or ACOs to respond to urgent calls.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.rspca.org.uk/utilities/contactus |title=Contact the RSPCA }}</ref>


Additionally the £16 million<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/1402352/RSPCA-millions-go-on-politics-and-HQ.html|title=RSPCA millions go on politics and HQ | location=London | work=The Daily Telegraph |first=Thomas |last=Penny |date=24 July 2002}}</ref> 'National Headquarters' located at [[Southwater]] in [[West Sussex]] houses several general 'Departments', each with a departmental head, consistent with the needs of any major organisation. The last Chief Executive Officer was [[Gavin Grant (executive)|Gavin Grant]] who managed five Directors who all have responsibility for a number of relevant departments. Gavin Grant left in February 2014 and is yet to be replaced. read the news about rspca
Additionally the £16 million<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/1402352/RSPCA-millions-go-on-politics-and-HQ.html|title=RSPCA millions go on politics and HQ | location=London | work=The Daily Telegraph |first=Thomas |last=Penny |date=24 July 2002}}</ref> 'National Headquarters' located at [[Southwater]] in [[West Sussex]] houses several general 'Departments', each with a departmental head, consistent with the needs of any major organisation. The last Chief Executive Officer was [[Gavin Grant (executive)|Gavin Grant]] who managed five Directors who all have responsibility for a number of relevant departments. Gavin Grant left in February 2014 and is yet to be replaced.


===Regions===
===Regions===

Revision as of 21:59, 24 January 2016

For the Australian organisation, see RSPCA Australia.

See also: Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
Founded1824
FounderRichard Martin, William Wilberforce, Reverend Arthur Broome
FocusAnimals
Location
Area served
England & Wales
Key people
Gavin Grant (Former Chief Executive)
Revenue
GBP £132.8m (2012)[1]
Employees
1,667 (2011)
Websitehttp://www.rspca.org.uk

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) is a charity operating in England and Wales that promotes animal welfare. In 2012, the RSPCA investigated 150,833 cruelty complaints.[2] It is the oldest and largest animal welfare organisation in the world[3] and is one of the largest charities in the UK, with 1,667 employees (as of 2011).[4] The organisation also does international outreach work across Europe, Africa and Asia.[5]

The charity's work has inspired the creation of similar groups in other jurisdictions, starting with the Ulster Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (founded in 1836), and including the Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (1839), the Dublin Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (1840), the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (1866), the Royal New Zealand Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (1882), and various groups which eventually came together as the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Australia (1981), the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Hong Kong) (1997) – formerly known as the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Hong Kong) (1903–1997).

The RSPCA is funded primarily by voluntary donations. In 2012, RSPCA total income was £132,803,000, total expenditure was £121,464,000.[6] Its patron is Queen Elizabeth II.

History

See also: RSPCA Reform Group
A painting of the trial of Bill Burns, showing Richard Martin with the donkey in an astonished courtroom, leading to the world's first known conviction for animal cruelty, after Burns was found beating his donkey. It was a story that delighted London's newspapers and music halls.

The organisation was founded in 1824 (without the "royal" prefix) as the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals; it was established by a group of 22 reformers led by Richard Martin MP, William Wilberforce MP, and the Reverend Arthur Broome in "Old Slaughter's Coffee House", St Martin's Lane, near the Strand. The foundation is marked by a plaque on the modern day building at 77–78 St Martin's Lane.[7]

The society was the first animal welfare charity to be founded in the world.[citation needed] In 1824 it brought sixty three offenders before the courts.[8] It was granted its royal status by Queen Victoria in 1840 to become the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, as it is today.[9] In the late 1830s the society began the tradition of the RSPCA inspector, which is the image best known of the organisation today.

The RSPCA lobbied Parliament throughout the nineteenth century, resulting in a number of new laws. The Cruelty to Animals Act 1835 amended Martin's Act and outlawed baiting. In 1876 the Cruelty to Animals Act was passed to control animal experimentation. In 1911 Parliament passed Sir George Greenwood's Animal Protection Act.

Since that time the RSPCA has continued to play an active role, both in the creation of animal welfare legislation and in its enforcement. An important recent new law has been the Animal Welfare Act 2006.[10][11]

Animal welfare establishments

A RSPCA shop in Bramley, Leeds.

RSPCA centres, hospitals and branches operate throughout England and Wales. In 2012 RSPCA centres and branches assisted and rehomed 55,459 animals.[12]

Hospitals

In 2013 the society owned four animal hospitals, Birmingham, Greater Manchester, Putney (south London) and the Harmsworth Memorial Hospital in Holloway (north London),[13] and a number of clinics which provide treatments to those who could not otherwise afford it, neuter animals and accept animals from the RSPCA inspectorate.

Centres

RSPCA animal centres deal with a wide range of injured and rescued animals, working alongside its inspectorate, volunteers, and others to ensure that each animal is found a new home.

In 2013 the Society had four wildlife centres at East Winch (Norfolk), West Hatch (Somerset), Stapeley Grange (Cheshire) and Mallydams Wood (East Sussex), which provide treatment to sick, injured and orphaned wild animals to maximise their chances of a successful return to the wild.[14]

Organisation and structure

National organisation

At the national level, there is a 'National Control Centre', which receives all calls from members of the public, and tasks local Inspectors, some information AWOs or ACOs to respond to urgent calls.[15]

Additionally the £16 million[16] 'National Headquarters' located at Southwater in West Sussex houses several general 'Departments', each with a departmental head, consistent with the needs of any major organisation. The last Chief Executive Officer was Gavin Grant who managed five Directors who all have responsibility for a number of relevant departments. Gavin Grant left in February 2014 and is yet to be replaced.

Regions

There are five 'Regions' (North, East, Wales & West, South & South West, South East), each headed by a Regional Manager (responsible for all staff and RSPCA HQ facilities) assisted by a Regional Superintendent who has responsibility for the Chief Inspectors, Inspectors, AWOs and ACOs. The Regional Managers are expected to have a broad understanding of operations throughout their regions.[9]

Groups

Each Region of the RSPCA contains 'Groups' of Inspectorate staff. A Group is headed by a Chief Inspector. Each Chief Inspector might typically be responsible for around 8 or more Inspectors, 3 Animals Welfare Officers (AWOs) and 2 Animal Collection Officers (ACOs), working with several local Branches. There are also a small number of Market Inspectors across the country.[17]

Branches

RSPCA branches operate locally across England and Wales. Some are separately registered charities operating at a local level and are run by volunteers. Some RSPCA branches are self-funding and raise money locally to support the animal welfare work they do. They find homes for about three-quarters of all animals taken in by the RSPCA. RSPCA branches also offer advice, microchipping, neutering and subsidised animal treatments. In 2013 there were also about 215 RSPCA shops.

Inspectorate rank insignia

RSPCA Inspectorate rank insignia
Rank Animal
Collection Officer		 Trainee Inspector Inspector Chief Inspector Superintendent Chief Superintendent Chief Officer
Insignia
All ranks within the Inspectorate wear a white shirt with obvious RSPCA logo on the left breast. All ranks, except Animal Collection Officers, are provided with a formal uniform for use at special occasions such as Court hearings and ceremonial occasions. During major rescues, specialist teams of Inspectorate staff may opt for a more casual dark blue polo shirt with RSPCA embroidered logo. Note: a new rank of Animal Welfare Officer has recently been introduced.

Mission statement and charitable status

The RSPCA is a registered charity (no. 219099) that relies on donations from the public. The RSPCA states that its mission as a charity is, by all lawful means, to prevent cruelty, promote kindness and to alleviate the suffering of animals.

RSPCA inspectors respond to calls from the public to investigate alleged mistreatment of animals. They offer advice and assistance to improve animal welfare, and in some cases prosecute under laws such as the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Animals rescued by the RSPCA are treated, rehabilitated and rehomed or released wherever possible.[18]

The RSPCA brings private prosecution (a right available to any civilian) against those it believes, based on independent veterinary opinion, have caused neglect to an animal under laws such as the Animal Welfare Act 2006. The Society has its own legal department and veterinary surgeons amongst the resources which facilitate such private prosecutions. All prosecutions are brought via independent solicitors acting for the RSPCA, as the Association has no legal enforcement powers or authority in its own right.

In 1829 when the first recognisable police force was established in the UK,[19][20] they adopted a similar uniform to that of RSPCA inspectors who had been wearing uniforms since the charities beginning in 1824. This has led to similarities in the RSPCA rank names and rank insignia with British police ranks, which has led some critics (such as Chris Newman, chairman of the Federation of Companion Animal Societies)[21] to suggest an attempt to "adopt" police powers in the public imagination.

An RSPCA inspector may also issue a "caution" to a member of the public, similar to that used by the police, i.e. "You do not have to say anything. But it may harm your defence if you do not mention when questioned something which you later rely on in court. Anything you do say may be given in evidence"; this may strengthen the perception that the RSPCA has statutory powers. When Richard Girling of The Times asked about their lack of powers, a spokesman for the RSPCA said "We would prefer you didn’t publish that, but of course it's up to you".[21] Chris Newman claimed that the RSPCA "impersonate police officers and commit trespass. People do believe they have powers of entry";[21] however, he did not produce any evidence of such impersonation of police officers, and the Society strongly deny the charge of impersonation.

Sally Case, former head of prosecutions, insisted that RSPCA inspectors are trained specifically to make clear to pet-owners that they have no such right. They act without an owner’s permission, she says, "only if an animal is suffering in a dire emergency. If the court feels evidence has been wrongly obtained, it can refuse to admit it".[21]

One recent trial was halted and charges relating to nine dogs were thrown out of court after District Judge Elsey ruled that they had been wrongly seized and that the police and RSPCA acted unlawfully when they entered private property and seized the animals.[22]

While the Protection of Animals Act 1911 provided a power of arrest for police, the British courts determined that Parliament did not intend any other organisation, such as the RSPCA, to be empowered under the Act and that the RSPCA therefore does not possess police-like powers of arrest, of entry or of search (Line v RSPCA, 1902). Like any other person or organisation that the law deems to have a duty to investigate – such as HM Revenue and Customs and Local Authority Trading Standards – the RSPCA is expected to conform to the rules in the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 so far as they relate to matters of investigation. RSPCA officers are trained to state, following giving the caution, that the person is "not under arrest and can leave at any time".

The Animal Welfare Act 2006[23] has now replaced the Protection of Animals Act 1911, and it empowers the police and an inspector appointed by a local authority. Such inspectors are not to be confused with RSPCA Inspectors who are not appointed by local authorities. In cases where, for example, access to premises without the owner’s consent is sought, a local authority or Animal Health inspector or police officer may be accompanied by an RSPCA inspector if he or she is invited to do so, as was the case in previous law.[24]

Following a series of Freedom of Information requests in 2011, to police constabularies throughout England and Wales[25] it was revealed that the RSPCA has developed local information sharing protocols with a number of constabularies, allowing designated RSPCA workers access to confidential information held on the Police National Computer (PNC). Although RSPCA workers do not have direct access to the PNC, information is shared with them by the various police constabularies which would reveal any convictions, cautions, warnings, reprimands and impending prosecutions. Information regarding motor vehicles can also be accessed. The Association of Chief Police Officers released a statement clarifying that the RSPCA had no direct access to the PNC, and that in common with other prosecuting bodies, it may make a request for disclosure of records. This indirect access does not include any information that the RSPCA does not need in order to prosecute a case at court.[26]

Controversy and criticism

Fund-raising in Scotland

The RSPCA has been criticised by the Scottish SPCA for fund-raising in Scotland and thereby "stealing food from the mouths of animals north of the border by taking donations intended for Scotland."[27] The RSPCA insists that it does not deliberately advertise in Scotland but that many satellite channels only enabled the organisation to purchase UK-wide advertising. In a statement, the RSPCA said it went "to great lengths" to ensure wherever possible that adverts were not distributed outside England and Wales, and "Every piece of printed literature, television advertising and internet banner advertising always features the wording 'The RSPCA is a charity registered in England and Wales'". "All Scottish donors, who contact us via RSPCA fundraising campaigns, are directed to the Scottish SPCA so that they can donate to them if they so wish."[27] The Scottish SPCA changed its logo in 2005 to make a clearer distinction between itself and the RSPCA in an attempt to prevent legacies being left to its English equivalent by mistake when the Scottish charity was intended.[28]

Sheep slaughter

In September 2012 the RSPCA euthanized 40 sheep, based on the decision of the Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency,[29] and were accused of using the photographs to further their campaign against animal exports.[30]

The RSPCA stated that they were present at the request of the Port Authority, Thanet District Council, to ensure that animal welfare laws were fully implemented in the operation headed up by DEFRA.[29] The animals were all checked by several independent vets including two Defra vets, and the decisions on the day to slaughter the sheep was taken by Animal Health, and not by RSPCA inspectors.[31]

However, the National Farmers' Union said that it "still leaves many questions to be answered, by both AHVLA and the RSPCA", and that "The NFU also still has questions about why the method of slaughter used resulted in so much blood in the photographs".[32] The RSPCA responded to this by stating that the amount of blood shown in the photographs was caused by ‘moving the dead bodies to an area where they were piled up pending collection for disposal’.[31]

Badger culling and politicisation

See also: Badger culling in the United Kingdom

The RSPCA's opposition of a badger cull has been commented upon; in 2006 there was controversy about a "political" campaign against culling, with the Charity Commission being asked to consider claims that the charity had breached guidelines by being too overtly 'political'. The charity responded saying that it took "careful account of charity law and the guidance issued by the Charity Commission".[33]

Slaughter of sacred cow

On 13 December 2007 the RSPCA unlawfully trespassed onto Bhaktivedanta Manor Hindu temple and unlawfully slaughtered the sacred cow Gangotri. The cow was under veterinary care and was recovering from an illness.[34] 200 people protested at the RSPCA headquarters about the killing, and the RSPCA was sued by the Hindu monks of Bhaktivedanta Manor Hindu temple. On 13 December 2008, the RSPCA admitted culpability, apologized for the killing of Gangotri, and donated a pregnant cow to the sanctuary representing a symbol of reconciliation.[35]

Heythrop Hunt

In 2012, the RSPCA spent £326,000 on a successful magistrates’ court prosecution of the Heythrop Hunt. The charity reported: "We believe that this was the first ever prosecution of a traditional hunt as a corporate body. The Heythrop Hunt pleaded guilty to four offences of intentionally hunting a fox with dogs on four separate occasions." The huntsman and hunt master involved also pleaded guilty to the same offences.[36] The relatively large amount spent in securing a prosecution (£6,800 in fines were imposed) led to criticism by the trial judge, who was later investigated for his comments,[37] the media and some MPs, who accused the charity of breaching its "duty of prudence".[38] The RSPCA said in response that "the overwhelming support from our supporters and the public confirms that the vast majority of people are right behind us. They want us to speak out and stand up for all animals – farm animals, pets, animals used in research and wildlife – by bringing those who abuse them to justice."[39] However, RSPCA support was rapidly declining, with donations falling by £7m in 2014.[40]

Allegations of discrediting of witnesses

On 7 August 2013 the BBC Radio 4 Face the Facts Radio program broadcast an episode called "The RSPCA – A law unto itself?"[41] The program presented a number of cases of where the RSPCA has sought to hound vets and expert witnesses who had appeared in court for the defence in RSPCA prosecutions. In one case it sought to discredit the author of the RSPCA Complete Horse Care Manual (Vogel) after he appeared as an expert witness for the defence team in an RSPCA prosecution.[42] The RSPCA later released a statement saying that this is untrue and that they do not persecute vets and lawyers who appear for the defence and as defence experts. There have been thousands of lawyers taking defence cases against the RSPCA and they have only ever made a complaint about one.[43]

Chief executive's salary

Gavin Grant started as RSPCA chief executive in January 2012. Prior to this Grant worked at the RSPCA as the Director of Campaigns and Communication between 1988–1991, before moving on to The Body Shop as their corporate communications manager for eight years.[44] His most recent role before moving back to the RSPCA was as the UK Chairman of PR company Burson-Marsteller where he spent 10 years.[45]

In 2013 it was speculated that Gavin Grant, then Chief Executive, was paid between £150,000 and £160,000 a year. The RSPCA responded, saying that the "chief executive’s salary is subject to regular independent review and is within the parameters of the going rate for major UK charities, both animal welfare and other."[46]

Deputy chairman raises concerns over 'political' allegations

In September 2013 the RSPCA deputy chairman Paul Draycott said that 'too political' campaigns threatened the charity's future and could deter donors.[47] Draycott said that the RSPCA could go insolvent "We have spent months discussing where we want to be in 10 years time, but unless we develop a strategy for now we won't be here then". In response the chairman Mike Tomlinson said "The trustee body continues to place its full support behind the RSPCA's chief executive, management and all our people who do such outstanding work". The accusations of politicization remain unsubstantiated.

Paul Draycott also warned that the RSPCA fears an exodus of "disillusioned staff" with "poor or even non-existent management training and career paths" for employees. In response the RSPCA’s chief executive, Gavin Grant denied suggestions in the memo that there was "no strategy" in some areas, stating that there was no difficulty in attracting trustees or serious internal concerns about management.[48]

Whistleblower suicide and Charity Commission investigation

In May 2013 former RSPCA employee Dawn Aubrey-Ward was found hanged at her home when suffering from depression after leaving the animal charity.[49] Aubrey-Ward had been a whistleblower against RSPCA bad practices. The RSPCA subsequently had a meeting with the Charity Commission over its approach to prosecutions.[50]

Advertising standards violation

An advertisement published by the RSPCA in the Metro newspaper said: "The UK Government wants to shoot England's badgers. We want to vaccinate them – and save their lives." But more than 100 people complained to the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), saying the use of the term "exterminate" was misleading. The advertising standards watchdog judged that the advert was likely to mislead the general public who had not taken an active interest in the badger cull saying, "The ad must not appear again in its current form.We told the RSPCA not to use language that implied the whole badger population in the cull areas would be culled in future advertising."[51] An RSPCA spokesman said it "welcomed" the judgement of the ASA to dismiss three of the areas of complaint about their advert but "respectfully disagreed" with the complaint which had been upheld.[52]

Small animal shelters

In November 2013 the RSPCA was accused of instigating police raids on small animal shelters with insufficient evidence that animals were being mistreated. The owners claimed that they were being persecuted because of their "no kill" policy of only putting animals down if they cannot be effectively treated.[53] The RSPCA stated that their inspectors will offer advice and guidance to help people improve conditions for their animals, and it only seeks the help of the police where it considers there is no reasonable alternative to safeguard animal welfare.[54] The RSPCA also stated that whilst a few of their own branches operate "no kill" policies themselves,[53] that many of its branches still puts down excess animals, with the RSPCA killing half of the animals that enters its care.[55]

Archbishop of Canterbury's refusal to accept role of vice-patron

In August 2013 the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, declined an invitation to become vice-patron the RSPCA. While Lambeth Palace stated that "the Archbishop has enormous admiration for the RSPCA and hopes to see its work thrive long into the future", the Archbishop's refusal was a snub to the organisation, as the four previous archbishops had assumed the role.[56][57]

Countryside Alliance criticism

In December 2013 the Countryside Alliance stated that the RSPCA had moved away from its role of promoting animal welfare and was now interested only in animal rights. General Sir Barney White-Spunner said that the RSPCA has turned into a "sinister and nasty" organisation and urged members of the Countryside Alliance to stop donating to the RSPCA the "once great institution".[58] General Sir Barney White-Spunner also said that RSPCA inspectors have been given intrusive powers with no proper basis in law. In response, the RSPCA accused the Countryside Alliance of being out of touch with public opinion and denied that it had departed from its original remit.[59]

Comparison to the holocaust

In June 2014 RSPCA campaigner Peta Watson-Smith compared the conditions livestock are brought up in across the country to that of the Jews during the Holocaust. The comments were condemned by countryside campaigners and Jewish groups.[60] In 2015 Peta Watson-Smith was elected to the RSPCA ruling council saying more money should be spent prosecuting farmers. At the same election the RSPCA members also voted to give a seat on the ruling council to Dan Lyons, who has previously called for pet owners to sit an exam.[61]

Cat euthanasia, false prosecution, media errors and an apology

In August 2014 it was reported that, following a review by the Crown Prosecution Service, the Director of Public Prosecutions had exercised her powers to take over and drop all charges brought by the RSPCA against the owners of a cat for causing it suffering due to having matted fur and being thin.[62] It was reported that the RSPCA euthanised the cat because its hair was too long.[62] A spokesman for the charity said it had been concerned for the cat's welfare.[62] The owners claimed that the RSPCA had refused to defer the euthanasia to allow their children to say good-bye to the pet they had owned for 16 years, a claim initially denied by the RSPCA on BBC radio.[63] The family accused the RSPCA of lying over the facts of the case to try and justify its actions.[64] In October 2014, the family met with senior RSPCA staff and their Independent Reviewer Stephen Wooler CB.[65] They presented a recording taken at Wendover Heights Veterinary Surgery on the day the cat was euthanised.[66] In November 2014, the RSPCA issued the following apology to the owners of the cat: On 16 May 2013, an RSPCA inspector responded to a call from a member of the public concerning ‘Claude’, an elderly cat belonging to Mr and Mrs Byrnes. Claude was removed from the family home and euthanased by a vet the following day against the wishes of Mr and Mrs Byrnes. The RSPCA acknowledges that the way in which it intervened in taking Claude from his home and the subsequent treatment of Mr and Mrs Byrnes at that time was disproportionate and insensitive and fell short of the standards of compassion the public are entitled to expect of the RSPCA. Specifically, the RSPCA accepts that its decision not to defer euthanasia so that Mr and Mrs Byrnes’ children could say goodbye to the pet cat they had known their entire lives caused great and unnecessary distress to the whole family. In November 2013, the RSPCA began legal proceedings against Mr and Mrs Byrnes. They were individually charged with two offences under section 4(1) (unnecessary suffering) and section 9(1) (duty of person responsible for animal to ensure welfare) of the Animal Welfare Act 2006. Following a review of the charges by the Crown Prosecution Service, in August 2014, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) exercised her powers to take over and discontinue the prosecutions because they failed to meet the tests set out in the Code for Crown Prosecutors. The RSPCA accepts that it failed to apply the evidential and public interest tests correctly prior to bringing legal proceedings against Mr and Mrs Byrnes and that it was wrong to have commenced prosecutions against them. The decision of the DPP to discontinue the prosecution received widespread media attention in August 2014. The RSPCA acknowledges that it made a number of unfortunate errors in its public responses to this coverage which could have been understood to cast doubt on the correctness of the DPP’s decision to discontinue the prosecutions. The RSPCA accepts that the cumulative effect of these errors presented Mr and Mrs Byrnes in an unfavourable light to the public. The RSPCA sincerely apologises to Mr and Mrs Byrnes and their family for the mistakes made in its original intervention, in its incorrect decision to prosecute them and for the errors in its media responses and for the resulting upset and deep distress caused both to them and their children.[67]

Wooler report

In October 2014 the RSPCA Council set up an independent review of the Society's performance so that it might listen to and learn from any feedback, including criticsm and complaints. The report that followed, conducted by Stephen John Wooler CB, highlighted the unique remit of the RSPCA as a successful prosecuting animal welfare organisation, whose prosecutions team "enjoys good standing before the courts for the effective manner in which its cases are presented." [68] While it also stated that the RSPCA operates in an "unstructured and haphazard” environment, the report also asserted that the Society is not only making a huge contribution to animal welfare, it is also "fulfilling a very significant constitutional role" whose contribution in terms of expertise and resources is huge and "simply too valuable to be lost." [68]

Secret pig destruction

In March 2015 it was reported that the RSPCA had secretly and unlawfully killed a pig without the permission of the owner.[69]

Aggressive fund raising

In August 2015 it was revealed that RSPCA had hounded donors for additional cash. Highlighting the case of a Former Army colonel suffering from dementia, despite being asked to stop requesting donations, the RSPCA continued to ask for donations over 5 years, making up to 38 requests per year.[70] After the RSPCA sold his details sold to scammers,[71] the Colonel lost 35,000. The Information Commissioner’s Office said the evidence was "concerning" and vowed an immediate probe into whether any charities had broken the law. An RSPCA spokesman said it was reviewing its policies on supporters’ data, adding that calling Mr Rae after he asked not to be contacted was a "genuine error and we apologise". However, the RSPCA was summoned to appear before the Commons Public Administration Committee to explain the fundraising tactics that MP Bernard Jenkin described as a "scandal".[72]

Will snooping

In September 2015 it was revealed the RSPCA pay investigators to snoop on the financial details of donors so that it can assess how much money donors might leave in their wills. Esther Rantzen accused the RSPCA of treating donors as "walking wallets". MP Nigel Evans condemned the behavior saying "Because people have given once, they become a commodity to charities which they have seen fit to trade and use as they please". MP Peter Bones said "If it was a commercial organisation doing this, they would be closed down for these kinds of practices. It is extraordinary". Pensions minister Baroness Altmann said "The majority of charities uphold good standards. But clearly, there are some which are letting the sector down".[73] Alistair McLean, of the Fundraising Standards Board, said it would ‘fully investigate’ the RSPCA's actions.

Horse euthanasia

The RSPCA admitted that in 2014 it had euthanised 205 healthy horses. In one particular case 12 horses from a Lancashire farm that had been assessed by vets as being "bright, alert and responsive" and suffering no life-threatening issues were killed by the RSPCA.[74]

Leadership crises

In November 2015 the RSPCA had a leadership crisis after being unable to appoint a chief executive for 2 years. A Government animal welfare adviser said: "The RSPCA as a brand is now so toxic that no one seems willing to take on the role. It is very sad for animal welfare. We need the charity to do the welfare work. Who suffers from a poorly managed RSPCA? It’s the animals." A Charity Commission spokesman said it had "urged the RSPCA council to move forward to a more conventional form of governance".[75]

See also

Further reading

  • Who Cares For Animals: 150 years of the RSPCA by Antony Brown.[76]
  • Animal Experimentation: A Guide to the Issues Vaughan Monamy, Cambridge University Press

References

  1. ^ Trustee's report and accounts 2011
  2. ^ "RSPCA Annual review". Retrieved 26 September 2013.
  3. ^ "Dog Rescue Pages – UK dog rescue centres and welfare organizations". Retrieved 29 February 2012.
  4. ^ Charity Insight page on the RSPCA, accessed 22 November 2010
  5. ^ "Our international work", RSPCA, accessed 16 August 2014.
  6. ^ "Trustees' report and accounts 2012". Retrieved 20 September 2013.
  7. ^ City of Westminster green plaques
  8. ^ "The History of the RSPCA". Retrieved 24 March 2008.
  9. ^ "Our heritage".
  10. ^ DEFRA page on Animal Welfare Act 2006, accessed 22 November 2010 Archived 2010-03-15 at the Wayback Machine
  11. ^ "Animal Welfare Act".
  12. ^ "RSPCA 2012 Annual Review".
  13. ^ "London North (Harmsworth Memorial) Animal Hospital".
  14. ^ "Wildlife centres".
  15. ^ "Contact the RSPCA".
  16. ^ Penny, Thomas (24 July 2002). "RSPCA millions go on politics and HQ". The Daily Telegraph. London.
  17. ^ "Become an RSPCA officer".
  18. ^ Vídeo de cão sendo espancado gera prisão de agressor, Yahoo!, RSPCA
  19. ^ See Metropolitan Police Act 1829
  20. ^ See Police uniforms and equipment in the United Kingdom
  21. ^ a b c d "Invasion of privacy". The Sunday Times. London. 3 June 2007. Retrieved 9 October 2013. (registration required)
  22. ^ Sharma, Sonia (21 May 2012). "Stanley woman found guilty of mistreating dog". Chronicle Live (UK). South Tyneside. Retrieved 9 October 2013.
  23. ^ "Animal Welfare Act 2006".
  24. ^ "ARCHIVE: Defra, UK – Animal Health and Welfare – Animal Welfare – Animal Welfare Act".
  25. ^ Richard Martin – Freedom of Information requests – WhatDoTheyKnow
  26. ^ ACPO Media Centre – RSPCA access to PNC records
  27. ^ a b Animal groups in bitter cash row BBC News, 3 January 2009
  28. ^ "New identity for animal charity". BBC News. 1 August 2005.
  29. ^ a b 0113_5 – rspca.org.uk
  30. ^ Farming (12 January 2013). "RSPCA accused of needlessly slaughtering sheep". London: Telegraph. Retrieved 11 April 2013.
  31. ^ a b RSPCA defends role in Ramsgate sheep incident | News | Farmers Guardian
  32. ^ "RSPCA has questions to answer over Ramsgate, says NFU – Farming UK news". Farminguk.com. Retrieved 11 April 2013.
  33. ^ Copping, Jasper (12 March 2006). "Back off Badgers campaign". The Daily Telegraph. London. Retrieved 13 March 2013.
  34. ^ Dugan, Emily (29 March 2008). "Hindu monks sue RSPCA over slaughter of sacred cow Gangotri". The Independent. London.
  35. ^ Pigott, Robert (12 December 2008). "RSPCA sorry for killing sacred cow". BBC News.
  36. ^ Wildlife crime – traditional hunt prosecuted for hunting – Details – Prosecutions annual report – Prosecution
  37. ^ Bingham, John (7 June 2013). "Cameron fox hunt judge criticised for questioning RSPCA". The Daily Telegraph. London.
  38. ^ Hope, Christopher (21 December 2012). "RSPCA trustees 'broke charity rules' over David Cameron hunt prosecution". Daily Telegraph. London. Retrieved 28 December 2013.
  39. ^ RSPCA Annual Review 2012
  40. ^ http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2673694/Donations-fall-7m-RSPCA-gets-political-Charity-accused-betraying-core-support.html
  41. ^ "BBC Radio 4 Face the Facts The RSPCA – A law unto itself?". 7 August 2013. Retrieved 7 August 2013.
  42. ^ "RSPCA tried to discredit expert who gave evidence against charity". 7 August 2013. Retrieved 7 August 2013.
  43. ^ 0713_7 – rspca.org.uk
  44. ^ Our people – About us – RSPCA in action
  45. ^ Gavin Grant, UK Chairman of Burson-Marsteller, has been appointed Chief Executive of the RSPCA – Burson-Marsteller – United Kingdom
  46. ^ "RSPCA fatcat 'rakes in 45% more' than the previous boss – but the charity is spending LESS on animal welfare". Daily Mail. London.
  47. ^ Sawer, Patrick (14 September 2013). "RSPCA deputy leader warns 'too political' campaigns threaten charity's future". The Daily Telegraph. London.
  48. ^ Bingham, John (16 September 2013). "RSPCA fears exodus of 'disillusioned staff', says deputy chairman". The Daily Telegraph. London.
  49. ^ Dixon, Hayley (14 May 2013). "RSPCA whistleblower found hanged". The Daily Telegraph. London.
  50. ^ RSPCA Heythrop Hunt
  51. ^ RSPCA badger cull 'extermination' advert deemed misleading by ASA | Gloucester Citizen
  52. ^ "RSPCA anti badger cull advert banned". BBC News. 11 December 2013.
  53. ^ a b Sawer, Patrick (3 November 2013). "RSPCA accused of persecuting owners of animal shelters". The Daily Telegraph. London.
  54. ^ 0813_6 – rspca.org.uk
  55. ^ http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2254729/RSPCA-destroys-HALF-animals-rescues--thousands-completely-healthy.html
  56. ^ Philipson, Alice (17 August 2013). "Archbishop Justin Welby snubs RSPCA after refusing lead role". The Daily Telegraph. London.
  57. ^ "Archbishop of Canterbury refuses to become patron of RSPCA after charity faces accusation it has lost its way – Mail Online". Daily Mail. London.
  58. ^ Holehouse, Matthew (27 December 2013). "RSPCA has become 'sinister and nasty', warns head of the Countryside Alliance". The Daily Telegraph. London.
  59. ^ 1213_1 – rspca.org.uk
  60. ^ "'Livestock suffer like Jews in the Holocaust' says RSPCA ruling council candidate Peta Watson-Smith, from Lincolnshire". Lincolnshire Echo.
  61. ^ http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3133840/Vegan-said-farming-like-Holocaust-elected-new-RSPCA-official-prompting-fears-charity-alienate-supporters.html
  62. ^ a b c "RSPCA prosecute family over cat's long hair". Telegraph.co.uk. 10 August 2014.
  63. ^ "BBC News – Row after family cat is put down, after RSPCA intervenes". BBC News.
  64. ^ Marco Giannangeli. "Family demand apology after 'lying' RSPCA put beloved cat down – UK – News – Daily Express". Express.co.uk.
  65. ^ "Meeting with the RSPCA 2 October 2014 pt 2". YouTube.
  66. ^ "Meeting at Wendover Heights Vets 17 May 2013". YouTube.
  67. ^ "Mr Richard and Mrs Samantha Byrnes – an Apology". RSPCA News.
  68. ^ a b http://www.rspca.org.uk/webContent/staticImages/Downloads/WoolerReviewFinalSept2014.pdf
  69. ^ http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2988208/RSCPA-secretly-kill-one-world-s-oldest-pigs-prosecute-heartbroken-owner-not-looking-properly.html
  70. ^ http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3217506/New-shame-charities-Widower-s-details-passed-200-times-leading-lose-35-000-getting-731-demands-cash.html
  71. ^ http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3218987/How-RSPCA-snoops-wills-donors-claimed-seen-walking-wallets-charities.html
  72. ^ http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-34186128
  73. ^ http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3218987/How-RSPCA-snoops-wills-donors-claimed-seen-walking-wallets-charities.html#ixzz3kZ7FTSng
  74. ^ http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/11862369/RSPCA-euthanising-healthy-horses-as-cases-of-neglect-hit-crisis-point.html
  75. ^ http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3298586/Thousands-spent-headhunters-wants-new-boss-toxic-RSPCA-Charity-leadership-crisis-nearly-two-years-without-chief-executive.html#ixzz3qGPNFMqZ
  76. ^ Detail from a copy of the book, published by Heinemann of London in 1974 with an ISBN of 434 90189 X. The chapters relate to the Origin of the Society, and finishes with prospects for the future, with a foreword by John Hobhouse (Chairman of the RSPCA). Appendix section includes a List of Past Presidents and Accounts information.

Video clips

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