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2020-12-31-accounts

PCA GURSPCA GUILDFORD and EPSOM BRANCH

ANNUAL REPORT 2020

Storm – just one of the animals we helped in 2020. See her story on the back cover

USEFUL CONTACT DETAILS

COMPLAINTS AND ADVICE

Anyone suspecting cruelty or mistreatment to animals should report the incident to the RSPCA by contacting the Cruelty Line on 0300 1234 999 (or www.rspca.org.uk/reportcruelty) where all calls are dealt with in the strictest confidence

CHIEF INSPECTOR BRANCH PARTNERSHIP MANAGER Chief Inspector Rob Jackson Sarah Piggott RSPCA Millbrook Animal Centre C/O RSPCA HQ Guildford Road, Chobham, Surrey Wilberforce Way, Southwater, West Sussex GU24 8EH RH13 9RS

Branch Contact Details

Telephone 07906 924002 Facebook www.facebook.com/rspcaguildfordepsom Website www.rspcaguildfordepsom.org.uk Email info@rspcaguildfordepsom.org.uk

USEFUL CONTACT DETAILS USEFUL CONTACT DETAILS
COMPLAINTS AND ADVICE
Anyone suspecting cruelty or mistreatment to animals should report the incident to the RSPCA by contacting
the Cruelty Line on 0300 1234 999 (or www.rspca.org.uk/reportcruelty) where all calls are dealt with in the
strictest confidence
CHIEF INSPECTOR
Chief Inspector Rob Jackson
RSPCA Millbrook Animal Centre
Guildford Road, Chobham, Surrey
GU24 8EH
BRANCH PARTNERSHIP MANAGER
Sarah Piggott
C/O RSPCA HQ
Wilberforce Way, Southwater, West Sussex
RH13 9RS
Branch Contact Details
Telephone 07906 924002
Facebook www.facebook.com/rspcaguildfordepsom
Websitewww.rspcaguildfordepsom.org.uk
Emailinfo@rspcaguildfordepsom.org.uk
LOCAL ANIMAL CENTRES
RSPCA Millbrook Animal Centre
Guildford Road
Chobham, Surrey
GU24 8EH
Tel: 0300 123 0740
Email millbrook@rspca.org.uk

Services:

Adopt an animal

Microchipping

Pet merchandise and charity shop

Gala days, car boot sales and dog shows

Dog behaviourist
Opening hours: 11.30am-4pm Tuesday to Sunday.
Closed Monday.
Currently closed and by appointment only, due to
Covid restrictions
Postcodes covered by the Branch
GU1 1, GU1 2, GU1 3, GU1 4, GU2 4, GU2 5, GU2 6, GU2 7, GU2 8, GU2 9, GU3 1, GU4 7, GU4 8, GU5 0,
GU5 9, GU6 7, GU6 8, GU7 1, GU7 2, GU7 3, GU8 4, GU8
KT4 9, KT9 1, KT9 2, KT9 9, KT17 1, KT17 2, KT17 3, KT17 4, KT17 6, KT17 9, KT18 5, KT18 6, KT18 7,
KT19 0, KT19 7, KT19 8, KT19 9, KT20 5, KT20 6, KT20 7, KT20 9, KT21 1, KT21 2, KT22 0, KT22 2, KT22 7, KT22 8,
KT22 9, KT23 3, KT23 4, KT24 5, KT24 6, KT24 7
SM7 1, SM7 2, SM7 3

CONTENTS

Trustees’ report

1 Reference and administration details

2 Introduction by the Chair

3 Structure, governance and management

7 Plans for the future

Inspectorate report

Financial statements

SPOTLIGHT ON OUR WORK - here we showcase our work with our fosterers

TED - Ted is a 2 year old sweet black lop who came into our care with 10 other rabbits, all kept in tiny indoor hutches. Initially he was very shy but in the tender care of our fosterer, Jackie, Ted absolutely blossomed. He was adopted by Polly's (also pictured here) owner, and the two successfully bonded and are very content and happy together.

We could not take in and rehabilitate rabbits without the dedication of our fosterers. Jackie fostered 12 rabbits in the course of 2020, which is amazing, continuing to take in cases in need throughout the pandemic. The limited veterinary services during lockdown proved challenging and we are proud that we managed to keep going and keep our volunteers and animals safe in our care.

1. Reference and administration details

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Charity Name The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals,
Guildford and Epsom Branch
Other names charity is known by RSPCA Guildford and Epsom Branch
Registered charity number 203608
Charity’s principal addresses The Branch does not have an address for members of the public
to visit but can be contacted via email or telephone.
Charity’s principal bankers Lloyds Bank plc
Independent examiner Jim Halliday FCA – Chartered Accountant
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Names of the trustees who manage the charity

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Trustee name Office (if any) Dates acted if not for whole
year
Judith Crowhurst
Rebecca Greaves Co-opted 15 December 2020
Garth Hampson Co-opted 20 April 2020
Steven Hooke Hon. Treasurer
Abbi Moore
Trasna Palmer Until 17 October 2020 when she became
President
Cat Pilbeam
Lucy Pollard Hon. Chair
Katrina Tully Hon. Secretary
Sarah White
Ann Winter
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*Judith and Abbi are employed by the RSPCA National Society. We obtained its approval before co-opting them as trustees, as required by branch rule 7.4.

Other support provided by

Other support provided by
Sarah Piggott Branch Partnership
Manager
Trasna Palmer President From 17 October 2020

2. Introduction by the Chair

This year's annual report reflects a year of considerable change for the Branch. Against a backdrop of Covid measures, we welcomed two new trustees, adapted to new ways of working and a much greater reliance on technology. I’m pleased to say that we were still able to deliver animal welfare, helping hundreds of animals by neutering, assisting with veterinary treatment, taking in strays, and rehoming dogs, cats and rabbits that came into our care.

Educational talks and fundraising were understandably the most impacted by restrictions. However, plenty of initiative was shown by volunteers in finding new ways to raise money. Online sales of hand-made dog beds and catnip mice were a great success, and “lockdown clearouts” turned unwanted items into cash. We also held two virtual pet shows with the star of one winning the national final! This was a lovely rescue story with a transformation in the cat testament to how patience and support can rehabilitate animals who have been through significant trauma, whatever their age. More examples of our fundraising efforts are in section 5 of this report.

The Inspectorate team, with whom we have always enjoyed an excellent relationship, became invaluable when it came to our rehoming work. Under DEFRA rules all animal centres had to be closed to the public, and we were unable to visit adopters homes or enable them to go into fosterer’s homes. RSPCA staff were deemed to be key workers so our fabulous Inspectorate team willingly delivered our animals to their foster homes or adopters in a safe way, enabling us to continue to take in animals in need.

The second half of the year saw big changes throughout the whole of the RSPCA in response to a ten-year strategy review coupled with financial pressures heightened by the pandemic. Our inspectorate team and head office colleagues had to say goodbye to valued colleagues, and several animal centres we used or collaborated with (Putney Animal Hospital, South Godstone Animal Centre and the Lockwood Equine Centre) closed. The way that the national Society will support and engage with branches in future will have to change too, but we were delighted that Sarah Piggott remains as our main source of assistance and liaison, albeit her role is a little different now.

Looking ahead, the new committee have defined our three-year priorities which align with the new National RSPCA strategy. They reflect the changing environment we operate in, and the additional challenges we will face. Section 7 gives more details on this. In the nearer term we are really looking forward to seeing members of the public face to face and engaging with them at community events. If you see us out and about, please come and say hello - we have really missed this interaction.

I hope that you enjoy reading about the animals we have helped and the impact that our volunteers have made on local animal welfare. Given how crucial volunteers are to the level of activity we can undertake, we will be focussing on recruiting people to get more involved and give up their time in order to deliver on the priorities mentioned above. To everyone who is already volunteering for us thank you for your generosity and support - it is hugely appreciated. That of course includes my fellow trustees who are such a pleasure to work with.

3. Structure, governance, and management

How the charity is
constituted		 We are a separately registered charity, constituted as an unincorporated association;
working within the Rules, Policies and Guidelines of the national RSPCA. Our
governing document is the RSPCA Society’s Branch Rules. The charity operates as an
autonomous branch, responsible for our own funding and for managing local animal
welfare work.
Trustee selection methods The committee consists of a maximum of 17 individuals, being:
(1) at least 7 and not more than 14 elected committee members, all of whom must
be eligible branch members, elected at the AGM and
(2)upto 3 co-opted committee members, who mayalso be branch members.
How trustees are recruited
and appointed		 Elected from branch members at every AGM to carry on the Branch work for the
forthcoming year. Potential trustees are recruited via various methods including
volunteer agencies, RSPCA websites and Head Office enquiries, advertising and
appeals to members. Potential new trustees are vetted in accordance with Charity
Commissionguidelines and sign the recommended declarations upon appointment.
Policies and procedures
adopted for the induction
and training of trustees		 All trustees are briefed on their responsibilities prior to their acceptance of the role.
New trustees receive appropriate training in RSPCA and Branch Policies and
Procedures, in line with Information Commissioner’s Office and Charity Commission
guidance. They also receive support from other trustees, guidance from Head Office
and Branch PartnershipManagers and handover from retiringofficers if applicable.
The charity’s organisational
structure and any wider
network with which the
charity works		 Some services such as those of the inspectorate are carried out by the national society
whereas others are carried out by a network of branches which are independently
registered charities operating in defined local areas. Our branch is the Guildford and
Epsom branch, which is a member of the South East Regional Board area.
All the work of the Branch is carried out by volunteers, so we have no paid staff.
Decisions are made by the trustees at committee meetings, usually held every 4 to 6
weeks. The Branch works with Head Office staff, the Inspectorate, Millbrook and
other branches and animal centres in its day-to-daywork.
Trustees’ consideration of
major risks and the system
and procedures to manage
them		 The main risks facing the Branch are:
Financial. Income generation is vital for us to continue our work. Despite pressing
need, we must evaluate what we can afford to fund. Insufficient income levels mean
that we will have to reduce or cease welfare activity to remain a viable branch. New
demands and requests for funding are a key discussion item at every committee
meeting. Spending is controlled through delegated limits and required approvals.
Public opinion. The RSPCA is a well-known and respected “brand” and we must
ensure that we do not tarnish it. Mitigating activities include screening/induction of
volunteers plus ongoing training and education for trustees (specifically on their
responsibilities as branch officials) and other volunteers. All home visitors must
attend a training course followed by one to one support.
People. We continue to have difficulties in finding volunteers willing to act as trustees
and carry out welfare and fundraising work. We use volunteer recruitment bureaux
and other methods as described above to publicise our requirements.
Health and Safety.We have a duty to take reasonable care of our volunteers’ health
and safety and that of others who may be affected by our actions. All volunteers are
covered by the RSPCA’s liability and personal accident insurance and are provided
with appropriate information on our health and safety policies and guidelines.

At the time of writing we are unsure what long-term effect COVID-19 will have on our ability to fundraise and rehome animals. We believe it will have an impact on all the main risks above, and the need for our services will change because of the effect of the pandemic on the economy. The committee has identified and evaluated risks affecting the Branch and has set in place policies and procedures based on guidelines issued by RSPCA Head Office and the Charity Commission to mitigate the risks where possible. The operation and relevance of these policies and procedures is reviewed regularly.

The Branch complies with the Branch Rules as issued by the National Society and has a number of related financial transactions with this organisation. Judith Crowhurst and Abbi Moore are also paid employees of the RSPCA (National Society).

4. Objectives and activities

Summary of the
objectives of the charity
set out in its governing
document		 To promote the work and objectives of the national Society [Royal Society for The
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (registered charity number 219099), with particular
reference to the area of the Branch, in accordance with the policies of the society.
The objectives of the Branch remain unchanged frompreviousyears.
Charity’s aim The RSPCA as a charity will, by all lawful means, prevent cruelty, promote kindness
to and alleviate sufferingof all animals.
Summary of the main
activities in relation to
these objects		 The Branch promotes animal welfare in the local area primarily through veterinary
assistance, neutering and rehoming.

We offer discretionary support to people in need to help pay veterinary bills.

We respond to enquiries from the public about animals and offer free animal
care advice by phone, social media, via leaflets and at our events, which
promotes responsible pet ownership.

Where funds permit, the Branch takes in abandoned animals, including pets
whose owners suffer ill health or financial difficulties, or pass away. We also
support the national RSPCA by caring for animals taken in by the Inspectorate
if there is no space at the national animal centres.

We continue to support the Inspectorate as appropriate.

We undertake educational presentations and workshops with local groups
and schools.
More detail on our activities can be found in section 5 of the Trustees Report.

SPOTLIGHT ON OUR WORK - here we showcase our work with animals

SNOW and LUNAR – Snow is the mother of Lunar (left, with one blue and one green eye). They came to us because their owner had unfortunately been made redundant and the family could sadly no longer afford to keep their beloved pets. They are beautiful girls but had a very bad flea infestation that needed to be treated urgently. Poor little Snow was suffering terribly, and her lovely white coat was stained with thick black flea dirt which was very itchy and needed

We gave Snow a much-needed special bath, definitely not a cat’s favourite pastime(!) but she felt much better after it. The RSPCA Hants and Surrey Border branch were kindly able to take these two gorgeous girls into their cattery until they were rehomed.

5. Achievements and performance

A. Animal Welfare

Rehoming, adoption support and fostering

The RSPCA rehomes animals to people who can meet the needs of a companion animal in an appropriate environment.

Most rehoming in the local area is done by Millbrook and before it’s closure, South Godstone Animal Centres, which are the nearest RSPCA animal centre to the Branch. The Branch also has space in foster homes and private boarding establishments for cats and rabbits who have been found abandoned or stray or have been taken in via the RSPCA Inspectorate when there is no room for them in an Animal Centre. They are cared for and rehabilitated, while we search for loving new homes. There are few dogs mentioned in our reports because we do not have the facilities or expertise to take them into our direct care and use other RSPCA branches and animal centres or other rescue organisations wherever possible. Animals in our care receive veterinary treatment, vaccinations, neutering and microchipping. Flea and other parasite treatments are kept up to date. This helps to control the incidence and spread of disease and suffering.

During the year we rehomed 19 animals that came into our care. In addition to this, we took on responsibility for a number of other animals before finding them places in RSPCA animal centres. We advertise animals for rehoming on our branch website and Facebook page, as well as the National Society’s main website; allowing us to reach a larger audience of prospective adopters. At certain times all our facilities are completely full, yet it is so important that we can take in animals in need and give them a chance of a loving home.

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19 Animals Rehomed
1
6
Cats
Rabbits
Dogs
12
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We support rehoming activity by recruiting and providing volunteers who undertake home visits as part of adoption support. The role of the home visitor is to visit the homes of potential adopters (after they have spoken to the RSPCA) to ensure they can provide a suitable home, and then to revisit the homes later to ensure that the adoption has been a success. We continued with this throughout the pandemic but had to change the way we work and undertook home visits via video.

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60 Adoption Support Visits
Carried Out
8
14
Dogs
Cats
Rabbits
38
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We carried out 60 adoption visits in 2020 (compared with 230 in 2019). From April, these were mostly conducted remotely under new DEFRA compliant Covid related protocols/guidance. Our team of home visitors not only carry out visits for our branch animals, but also on behalf of other RSPCA branches and centres where the potential adopter lives within the Branch area. Usually and when there are no restrictions, many of our home visitors are happy to drive a bit further or cover for absence if it helps to get an animal into their new home more quickly.

We have cat fosterers who give the special care and attention that is often much easier to provide in a foster home than in a cattery. If we have spaces in this preferred home environment, we can socialise and nurture cats meaning that they are more quickly restored to good health and able to be rehomed earlier. We are extremely keen to find other potential fosterers including cat and kitten fosterers, who will have support from our co-ordinator. This reduces the costs of boarding overall. We also have rabbit fosterers.

Welfare assistance

We provide support to people in need to help pay their vet bills. This service is offered in certain circumstances to assist with difficulties experienced by pet owners faced with veterinary costs which they will struggle to meet. This helps to promote responsible pet ownership, prevent suffering and reduce the numbers of unwanted cats, dogs and rabbits. We assisted 178 animals in this way in 2020 (199 in 2019). We also helped with the neutering of 129 animals (194 in 2019). 97 of these were cats where we offered subsidised neutering to owners under our World Spay Day joint project with Guildford and Godalming Cats Protection. Both charities are keen to neuter as many cats as possible, to tackle the ongoing problem of unwanted kittens in the area.

We had 37 animals in our care during the year and we have paid for all their necessary treatments. Our thanks go to the veterinary community for their invaluable help throughout the year.

We also paid Wildlife Aid in Leatherhead for the care of 53 hedgehogs badgers, foxes, bats, pigeons, owls, and ducklings. These cases originated in our branch and were taken there by the Inspectorate.

Supporting the Inspectorate

The Branch continued to support the Inspectorate in their vital and sometimes distressing work. We do this through fostering or boarding and paying for veterinary treatment for animals signed over to the RSPCA. We also provide welfare assistance for veterinary treatment and neutering where the Inspectors find owners in need. The Inspectorate report is in a later section of the Annual Report.

Other welfare activities

We take in, free of charge, lost animals and take steps to reunite them with owners. This work benefits our local community (including local authorities) by preventing animals from straying and posing a risk to themselves and to people through road accidents. We respond to enquiries from the public about animals in the Branch area. The public benefits by knowing that we can and will intervene to assist animals in need.

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It is the law that you must have your dog 66 Animals Microchipped
microchipped and your details up to date in England
and Wales. We believe all cats, dogs and rabbits
should be chipped to ensure that a pet can be 5 Cats
reunited with their owner, and to aid this we will pay
for chipping where required. Rabbits
We microchipped 5 rabbits in 2020, compared to 23
61
in 2019. The figure is lower as we had a higher than
average intake in 2019.
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Microchipping continues to help solve one of our regular challenges; that of stray or lost animals. We advertised a number of lost and found pets through the year and the care of stray animals adds significantly to our work. Microchipped pets where contact details are kept up to date are easily reunited with their families, avoiding heartache for the owners and costs for the RSPCA.

B. Education

Education events

Educational activities were severely curtailed due to Covid restrictions all year. We have been unable to visit schools or engage face to face with groups. RSPCA Head Office have online educational facilities which we have promoted on our social media sites. Our welfare line operated throughout the year, without interruption and provided advice to the general public to help with pets, wildlife, and farm animals.

We hope to be able to start planning in educational activities again as soon as it is safe to do so.

Social media

Our social media content can be found at www.facebook.com/rspcaguildfordepsom and www.rspcaguildfordepsom.org.uk. You can see more about the Branch trustees and our work, find out about our welfare services and learn about forthcoming campaigns and events. You can also obtain useful help and advice and contact us via these links.

Other educational activities

We continued to heavily publicise and support World Spay Day and Early Neutering Awareness by running a social media campaign in collaboration with Cats Protection to offer low-cost cat spay/snip for both male and female cats in the Branch area.

This year, due to the pandemic we have altered our approach to the promotion of neutering services nationally as we are aware of the variation in the public's ability to access veterinary services for routine appointments like neutering and vaccinations. For this year’s World Spay Day, we have created an animation which aims to address the tricky situation we are currently facing with the pandemic, the importance of neutering, and to provide members of the public information on where to access advice and support. It was really important for us to manage people’s expectations regarding vet capacity and assure them that there are resources available to ensure that their cats are happy when an appointment cannot be made for any reason. The benefits of neutering are manifold; clearly stopping unwanted or unplanned litters, and reducing the risk of serious illness, accidents, and infectious disease.

We continue to support Rabbit Awareness Week (RAW) promotions. In 2020 this focussed on getting rabbits vaccinated against the deadly RHD2 disease. The virus causes internal bleeding and is highly contagious. There is no specific treatment, which makes vaccination essential. Alongside the education campaign we offered subsidised vaccines in the branch area.

C. Fundraising Fundraising events and activities

Fundraising events were curtailed due to Covid restrictions, but we changed our focus to other activities including selling dog beds and greetings cards online. Our president also did a fantastic job of selling second-hand items through social media and the catnip mice knitted by one of our kind adopters were a huge success.

We also looked at how we could still engage with our supporters and members of the public. This meant us adapting to changing circumstances so that we could still run events through lockdown. We switched to digital and ran two virtual events:

Howl-o-ween - Our ‘stay at home’ fun event, giving owners the perfect opportunity to show how unique animals are - from black cats to bats, creepy crawlies, scaly creatures, furry or feathered. Well done to the beautiful black cat Mishka, who was one of the winners in our Branch Pet Show, but also was crowned the overall RSPCA National Howl-o-ween Pet Show winner. This was a fantastic story - Mishka was rescued by the RSPCA several years ago from very difficult circumstances following the illness of a previous owner and has since been on a wonderful journey with her new adopter.

Home Pet Show and Virtual One Fun Day - This ran from 17 May to 14 June offering 6 all-animal categories that were designed to celebrate pets’ natural behaviours, and their owners’ special bond with them. Local heats took place for 4 weeks from 17 May to 14 June and the finalists were invited to take part in the Live Zoom Final on 19 June hosted by RSPCA CEO Chris Sherwood and our wonderful celebrity ambassador Sophie Craig.

We will be looking at how we run our events in the future and may continue with a blended approach. Although we want to engage in person as restrictions start to lift, this would allow more flexibility with taking part in events. We did manage to run some events throughout the year the results of the collections are summarised in the table below.

Event type 2019 2020
Town centre collections 567.61 599.44
Store collections 197.27 63.22

We are always mindful of the need to fundraise responsibly, especially in line with and ensure that we remain compliant with law and best practice, especially in line with Covid restrictions. Further details of how we use our income to help local animals can be found in section 5A.

Collection boxes

During 2020 we had 23 collection boxes in use (compared with 24 for the previous year). Takings totalled £216.45 for 2020 including a very generous collection at Maggie’s Pets in Ewell.

2019 takings 2020 takings
£219.53 £216.45

Last year we noticed that fewer people are carrying cash which has been further exacerbated by the pandemic. Covid-19 has also made it increasingly difficult to place collection new boxes in shops and other locations. However, we would like to have more boxes out in the local area and continue to look for people to manage these boxes; recruits do not need to be branch members although we would encourage them to join our membership. In particular we would like to increase the number of collection boxes in Epsom and the surrounding areas. We would welcome suggestions for new locations and for people to manage collection boxes in the enlarged branch area.

D. Public benefit

Our objectives and activities are outlined in section 4 of this report. Performance against those objectives is detailed above. Our current short term and long-term aims can be found in section 7 of this report.

The trustees have reviewed the outcomes and achievements of our objectives and activities for the year to ensure they remain focussed on our charitable aims and continue to deliver benefits to the public. We have complied with the duty under the Charities Act 2006 to have due regard to public benefit guidance published by the Charity Commission.

6. Financial Review

Overview

The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the Branch during 2020. For a large part of the year, Government restrictions meant many traditional activities undertaken by the Branch were not permitted.

Overall expenditure in 2020 was down £2,478 to £86,320 compared to £88,798 in 2019.

The percentage of total expenditure spent in the branch area on animal welfare has decreased from 76% in 2019 to 55% in 2020. This largely reflects both lower levels of welfare assistance activity within the branch area due to the impact of the pandemic and increased donations made by the branch to support animal welfare outside of the branch area; in particular, the Branch donated £25,000 to the Branch Emergency Fund organised by the RSPCA National Society to support branches that were struggling financially due to the impact of the pandemic and in December 2020, the Committee agreed a donation of £10,000 to Millbrook Animal Centre to cover three months’ food costs. Governance costs reduced by £866 in 2020 as one-off costs related to the merger in 2019 did not recur.

Income was £64,323 in 2020, a reduction of £17,698 on the previous year, as many fund-raising activities were restricted due to the pandemic and no legacy income was received in 2020 compared to £5,100 in 2019. In 2020 78% of the branch income came from the branch share of direct debit donations raised by the RSPCA HQ door to door fundraising campaign, which amounted to £50,346 for 2020 (2019: 65% and £53,478).

Overall, there was a net deficit for the year of £21,997 compared to a deficit of £6,777 in 2019. The Branch continues to hold significant reserves but aims to reduce this over time, in line with the policy as described below.

The full accounts are provided later within the Annual Report.

Brief statement of the charity’s policy on reserves

Reserves are those funds which are freely available for general purposes and have not been designated for specific projects or activities. At the start of the year, the reserves of the Branch were split into two:

In July 2020 the Branch applied to the Charity Commission for permission to remove the restrictions in respect of former Epsom branch funds created by the merger of the Branch with the RSPCA Surrey Epsom & District branch (“former Epsom branch”) in 2019. On 12 August 2020 the Charity Commission confirmed they were satisfied the requirements of section 275 of the Charities Act 2011 had been met and the removal of the restrictions became effective on 29 September 2020. Following this the Branch now only holds unrestricted reserves.

The policy of the branch is to:

SPOTLIGHT ON OUR WORK - here we showcase our inter branch co-operation

FRED - Fred is a very young gorgeous fluffy tricoloured rabbit who came into our care. Fred was a very shy rabbit but once he overcame this, he turned into possibly one of the most confident and busy rabbits our fosterer had ever met! He wanted to be involved in everything going on and is very inquisitive! Fred was rehomed with lots of space to play, and the company of a partner bun, Peppers.

Fred was one of 10 rabbits rescued from a private property where rabbit population had got out of control. The local branch could not cope with the large number and appealed for help from other branches. We offered to take 2 into foster care. They flourished with a healthy diet and bigger living space, and after neuters and vaccinations were soon adopted to live with partner buns in lovely spacious homes. This is an example of one of the many ways we work with other arms of the RSPCA to improve animal welfare and reduce costs.

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7. Plans for the future
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Aims and objectives for
the future		 Our overriding aim is to continue to provide and promote animal welfare for
the local area by providing financial assistance for those on low incomes,
continuing with our fostering and rehoming work to ensure that a healthy
and happy lifestyle for adopted animals, and to support the national Society.
In January 2021 the new committee agreed our short and medium-term
priorities and we aligned out goals with the new RSPCA strategy.
Our main area of focus is to increase animal welfare across the Region by
continuing and extending collaboration with other branches and
organisations, and supporting more people with animals in need. This is
dependent upon and supported by 4 additional pillars:

Revenue Generation

Strong Governance

Public Engagement

People
The 2019 merger presents significant challenges to deliver this welfare work
across the wider geographical area. Consequently, volunteer recruitment
will be featuring as a future key objective. Meanwhile we have plans to
incrementally expand and consolidate existing activities across the wider
area.
Financial sustainability is primarily about revenue generation and spending
control to fund the welfare work that we do. Our goal is to ensure the
Branch remains in existence for (many) years to come. We review the best
sources of income in order to best target our limited volunteer resource
The Plan will be reviewed regularly and adapted to reflect changing
circumstances and priorities.
Activities planned to
achieve the objectives
1. Revenue Generation
2. Strong Governance
3. Public Engagement
4. People		  Set up a fundraising working group to provide a dedicated focus on
revenue generation ideas
 Develop a compelling fundraising plan (including an emphasis on digital)
to rely less on door-to-door income
 Empower and engage members and volunteers to spread our messages
and support fundraising efforts
 Diversify income generation by exploring alternative revenue streams
 Deliver a more robust approach to managing and refreshing policies,
procedures, and processes
 Foster stronger connectivity, sharing, and leverage of best practices
across the Branch Network
 Build & enhance positive relationships with the public & our
communities, including amplifying National RSPCA advocacy areas
 Build out existing and/or adopt new digital channels to communicate
branch activities and successes
 Analyse ‘Audience Profile’ for each message/campaign/activity to
ensure we’re targeting the right demographic
 Expand and effectively manage, utilize, and retain our volunteer
network and membership
 Define clear roles and responsibility for trustee and volunteer roles with
a focus on succession planning

SPOTLIGHT ON OUR WORK - here we showcase our support for owners

GIZMO - Gizmo’s owner is an elderly blind gentleman who didn’t know how to get help for his cat. He was aware poor Gizmo’s ear was swollen but being blind, he didn’t know how bad it was or how to get the help he needed. His neighbour had got in touch to help during the lockdown and on seeing Gizmo knew that the cat needed veterinary assistance urgently. Gizmo’s owner desperately wanted to help his cat but wasn’t in a financial position to afford vet fees. Gizmo gives huge support and companionship to him and he had had her since a kitten.

We got in touch with the vets who advised that Gizmo needed an operation on his ear to drain it from infection. After her operation, Gizmo stayed with one of our adopters so that she could be looked after until she had fully recovered. This wasn’t easy during lockdown as she still needed to be checked by the vets which was done via video calls. photos and emails. Gizmo was an absolutely smashing patient and we stayed in touch with Gizmo’s owner the whole time. Gizmo was finally reunited with her owner who was missing her terribly.

Declaration

The trustees declare that they have approved the trustee's report above. Signed on behalf of the charity’s trustees

Lucy Pollard Lucy Pollard. Hon. Chair Date 19 July 2021

Inspectorate report

RSPCA Surrey Inspectorate Team - Annual Report 2020

I am pleased to present the 2020 annual report for the Surrey Group.

Surrey Group Statistics for 2020

Due to the group restructure in October, the following statistics are only for the three months from October to December. In that three-month period, the team attended 374 incidents. Of these incidents, three became potential prosecution investigations and case files were submitted. Two ‘Improvement Notices’ were also issued to owners.

Surrey Group News

2020 has seen many changes, arrivals and departures within the team. In March, Inspector Derek Wilkins said goodbye to the RSPCA after nearly 40 years’ dedicated service. Derek retired once before in 2017 but missed the work too much and so he returned to our group again last year.

However this ‘farewell’ appears to be final, and so we would like to thank Derek for all his hard work over the years and wish him well for his retirement.

Congratulations to Inspector Pete Yarde who successfully completed his Trainee Inspector course in March. Pete has settled very well into his new role and is rising to the new challenges and responsibilities that it brings. Pete’s dedication to the cause of animal welfare is clear. Whilst on holiday, Pete noticed a swan who unfortunately had a fishing line caught around her leg. Even with no equipment to hand, Pete came to the rescue and managed to catch the poor swan. Pete and his wife carried it to a local vet who helped with the removal of the line. The vets kept hold of the swan to await a transfer to a local swan

In April, we were delighted to welcome back Inspector Liz Wheeler to the Surrey team. Liz previously worked as an Inspector in the Surrey area, and she brings with her many years of valuable experience and knowledge to the team.

On 18th May, Inspector Leanna Hone gave birth to a beautiful baby girl; Seren Esme Hone. Our huge congratulations to Leanna and Carl, and we wish the whole family much happiness for the future.

Leanna will be rejoining us again next year after her maternity leave finishes. We are all very much looking forward to having her back with us.

October 2020 saw huge changes throughout the whole RSPCA, and we had to deal with the very sad departure of many valued colleagues from the Society.

In Surrey, we said goodbye to Animal Collection Officers Jayne Jones and Tasha Clarke. We thank them both for all their hard work, and they will be greatly missed. We do of course wish them all the very best for the future.

However, October also brought us happier news. Our former Animal Collection Officer, Louis Horton, was successful in his application for the new position of Trainee Animal Rescue Officer (ARO). We were also pleased to welcome a brand-new team member, Trainee ARO Chloe Wilson, from RSPCA South Godstone.

Both Chloe and Louis began their 5-week intensive ARO training in November. They successfully completed the course, and in December they re-joined the team to begin their field training. We are delighted to have both of them working with us, and we wish Louis and Chloe all the very best in their new roles.

Due to the new group boundaries introduced in October, we said ‘farewell’ to Inspector Becky Timberlake and Animal Rescue Officer Carl Hone, both of whom left the Surrey team and joined the Thames Valley group. Whilst we were sad to lose them as team members, they are still very much part of the RSPCA family.

Happily, Inspector Andrew Kirby (previously in the Sussex group) and Inspector Sandy Barlow (previously in the Berkshire group) arrived in our team to help fill the vacancies. We are very pleased to have two such dedicated and experienced officers working with us.

On a personal note, I would also like to thank Sandy for accepting the vacant position of Deputy Chief Inspector and for providing so much support to both myself and the whole group.

Surrey Group Work – Our Investigations

Inspectors Nat Kitchin, Lauren Evans, Becky Timberlake, Jo Bowling, and Animal Collection Officer Tasha Clarke all assisted with a complex multi-bird complaint in Camberley. Sadly, there were numerous birds including ducks, guinea fowl, a turkey, geese, chickens, and peacocks, all of which were being kept in poor conditions.

A warning notice was issued to the owner about improving conditions and he agreed to sign over eighteen of the birds. When we returned at a later date to check the conditions for the remaining birds, Inspectors were happy with the improvements made. The birds that had been previously signed over were distributed amongst the Hillingdon branch and RSPCA Millbrook, and some even went to stay with an officer in the Surrey group. A great team effort was made all round.

Inspector Jo Bowling was called to check some struggling ponies in Hillingdon. As the only access to the field was through a tall, locked gate, the Police and then Fire & Rescue were asked to attend to help us get access. On examination, one poor pony had chronic diarrhoea and was removed from the field and taken to a private equine boarding establishment. The pony was placed on fluids, but very sadly she then went on to develop severe colic and had to be put to sleep. An unhappy outcome and, as is sadly often the case with these types of situations.

Unfortunately, the owner was never found. However, this is another good example of the how we rely on other types of organisations to undertake our work.

Inspector Natalie Kitchin investigated an incident in Leatherhead involving a cat in a very poor bodily condition. The cat sadly had an untreated cancerous mouth tumour. The owner was issued with an RSPCA Caution as a result of his failure to address his cat’s obviously deteriorating poor health. Sadly, by the time Nat become involved, the tumour was untreatable and “Fat the cat” had to be euthanised. Another unhappy outcome, and a further example of the type of neglect our officers routinely face.

Inspector Lauren Evans secured a conviction against a horse owner in Merstham. The owner was found guilty of neglecting her two horses that were found to have had their feet trimmed inappropriately, leaving them with mechanical laminitis. The horses also had signs of chronic laminitis. The owner was given a 16-week prison sentence, suspended for 18 months, a tenyear disqualification from keeping equines and ordered to pay £1,900 in court costs.

The vet found that laminitis had been evident as an active and painful disease process, with the period of suffering for both horses present for a prolonged period. Sadly one of the horses had to be euthanised as there was no way of alleviating her suffering, but the other horse responded well to her treatment and was later transferred to an equine rescue charity.

A dog owner in West Drayton pleaded guilty to an offence of causing unnecessary suffering to a pit bull terrier type bitch, known as Missy, by failing to provide veterinary attention in respect of a tumour on the dog’s leg. Missy had been brought into a vet practice in Hillingdon. The vet contacted the RSPCA as the dog was unable to move because of the pain, and her leg was swollen to between six and eight times its normal size. X-rays later showed a huge growth on her front right leg which had become ulcerated. The vet found that poor Missy’s leg was broken and that she’d have been suffering for at least three weeks. Sadly, the decision was made to put Missy to sleep.

Inspector Jo Bowling launched an investigation and was able to track down and interview the owner. She was sentenced to a 12-week prison sentence, suspended for one year, and 25 rehabilitation activity requirement days. She was also ordered to pay costs of £450 and was disqualified from keeping all animals (except fish) for two years.

Surrey Group Work: Our Collections and Rescues

Following lockdown in March, our local animal centre RSPCA Millbrook was closed to the public. To ensure our essential work of continuing to rehome their animals, the Surrey Inspectorate team through themselves into the task of delivering Millbrook’s animals in a safe way. Over 90 animals, including cats, guinea pigs, budgies, rabbits, ferrets, gerbils and rats were collected by the team and taken to very grateful new owners.

Animal Collection Officer Louis Horton was called to assist with a complex rescue of a pony that had fallen down a cesspit in Guildford. The poor pony had been down there for around three hours by the time Louis arrived. The Fire and Rescue services were called to assist, and a local vet came to sedate the pony. Fire and Rescue managed to get a hydraulic crane with a sling attached into the pit. After several hours’ hard work, the pony was lifted out and was fortunately uninjured. The vet was happy the pony could be left with his owners, who were given appropriate advice about ongoing care. This is a great example of how we work in partnership with others.

It is a sad fact that discarded fishing tackle often causes injuries to birds and mammals living around our waterways. Animal Welfare Officer Carl Hone was called to this coot on the Thames in Kingston which had become entangled in fishing line, hook and a decoy. The bird was unable to fly or swim properly and finally became caught in reeds at the side of the river. Carl took the bird to Swan Support who managed to remove all the line and the bird was luckily released safely back on the Thames.

Local Branches Helping our Officers with their Work

There are many examples of where our local branches have assisted our officers with their work. Here are just a few:

Guildford and Epsom Branch very kindly agreed to pay for a poor owl, which had been unfortunately struck by a car, to go to The Wildlife Aid Foundation in Leatherhead. The owl was treated and later released.

Hants and Surrey Border Branch stepped in to help with a multi-cat operation in Yateley. Not only did they assist by supplying neutering vouchers, but they also agreed to take on some of the more challenging cats for potential rehoming.

Surrey East Branch kindly stepped in to help pay boarding costs for a stray abandoned cockerel in their area. Sadly, this type of incident involving cockerels is not uncommon as they are still used by some owners for fighting.

Surrey Group: “Thank-You’s”

As you will see from many of the incidents described above, our work is very much a team effort. So we would like to thank all of our local Branches for their help and assistance, whether by providing funding for a welfare issue or by taking in animals for our officers. We also rely on the invaluable support provided by our own animal centres and hospitals, and particular thanks is owed to RSPCA Millbrook, RSPCA South Godstone and RSPCA Putney Animal Hospital, all of whom have helped us out so much during the year. The closure of three local centres used often by our team (RSPCA Putney Animal Hospital, RSPCA South Godstone and RSPCA Lockwood) was felt very strongly by our officers, and I know they would like to wish all the staff the very best for the future.

We also work closely with other agencies and charitable organisations to secure the welfare and care each animal deserves. Our particular thanks go to all the local Police and Fire and Rescue teams, and to all of the veterinary practices who have so ably assisted our work throughout 2020. We really could not undertake the work we do without this support.

Finally, I would like to extend my personal thanks to all of the Surrey officers who have continued to work with such commitment during what has undoubtedly been an extremely difficult and challenging year. The pandemic has dramatically changed much of what we do (including the overnight closure of the National Control Centre in April) and has caused great anxiety and concern. Some officers have had to cancel their wedding plans and holidays, and all of them have faced anxieties and concerns in relation to the pandemic. However, every one of them has continued to be out there on the front line dealing with animal welfare issues and rescuing animals in need. I would like to express my sincere and heartfelt thanks for their amazing professionalism and dedication shown by every single member of the team.

Rob Jackson Chief Inspector - Surrey Group

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF R.S.P.C.A. GUILDFORD AND EPSOM BRANCH

I report on the accounts of the Charity (Registered Charity number 203608) for the year ended 31 December 2020, which are set out on the following pages.

Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner

The charity’s trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity’s trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act), and that an independent examination is needed.

It is my responsibility to

Basis of independent examiner’s statement

My examination was carried out in accordance with the general Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a ‘true and fair view’ and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.

Independent examiner’s statement

In connection with my examination, no material matters have come to my attention which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect:

I have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

JIM HALLIDAY, FCA Chartered Accountant 74 Holly Hill, Southampton, SO16 7EY

19 July 2021

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

R.S.P.C.A GUILDFORD AND EPSOM BRANCH

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

NOTE
INCOMING RESOURCES
Collecting Boxes
Sales of New and Donated Goods
Branch Fundraising Events
Branch Adoption Fees
Donations via HQ Door to Door Fundraising
Other Donations
Legacies
Contributions received for Community Action
Events
Membership Subscriptions
Investment Income
3
RESOURCES EXPENDED
Charitable Activities
Veterinary Treatment on Branch Voucher
Scheme
Neutering on Branch Voucher Scheme
Voucher Scheme and Charitable Expenses
Veterinary Treatment and Neutering of
Unowned Animals
Boarding and Food
Wildlife
Community Action Events
Donations
Branch Contribution to RSPCA Headquarters
and Region
Cost of Generating Funds
4
Governance Costs and Depreciation
AGM/Annual Reports
Administrative Expenses
Depreciation
Insurance
TOTAL EXPENDITURE
NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
5
TOTAL FUNDSBalance Brought Forward
Transfer of funds
TOTAL FUNDSBalance Carried Forward
5		 Unrestricted
funds
2020
£
Restricted
funds
2020
£
Total
funds
2020
£
216
-
216
282
-
282
720
-
720
790
-
790
50,346
-
50,346
3,920
-
3,920
-
-
-
3,524
-
3,524
418
-
418
1,951
2,156
4,107
62,167
2,156
64,323
16,831
6,298
23,129
2,379
1,138
3,517
376
164
540
5,532
204
5,736
3,141
66
3,207
4,764
2,858
7,622
3,730
-
3,730
35,757
-
35,757
1,378
-
1,378
73,888
10,728
84,616
234
-
234
108
65
173
382
229
611
161
-
161
328
197
525
979
491
1,470
75,101
11,219
86,320
(12,934)
(9,063)
(21,997)
114,320
204,919
319,239
195,856
(195,856)
-
297,242
-
297,242		 Total
funds
2019
£
298
364
1,786
2,160
53,478
8,407
5,100
4,284
455
5,689
82,021
25,644
5,011
1,068
7,322
19,206
4,455
4,749
15,445
3,308
86,208
254
811
765
235
525
2,336
88,798
(6,777)
326,016
-
319,239

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

R.S.P.C.A GUILDFORD AND EPSOM BRANCH

BALANCE SHEET AT 31 DECEMBER 2020

NOTE
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible fixed assets
7
CURRENT ASSETS
Debtors
8
Investment Bank Accounts
Cash at bank - Current Account
CREDITORS (falling due within 1 year)
Creditors
NET CURRENT ASSETS
NET ASSETS
FUNDS
UNRESTRICTED FUNDS
Unrestricted funds
RESTRICTED FUNDS
Restricted income funds
TOTAL FUNDS
5		 Unrestricted
funds
Restricted
funds
Total
funds
2020
£
2020
£
2020
£
294
-
294
6,682
-
6,682
295,962
-
295,962
10,103
-
10,103
312,747
-
312,747
(15,799)
-
(15,799)
296,948
-
296,948
297,242
-
297,242
297,242
-
297,242
-
-
-
297,242
-
297,242		 Total
funds
2019
£
1,029
11,294
306,317
19,666
337,277
(19,067)
318,210
319,239
114,320
204,919
319,239

Approved by the Trustees on 19 July 2021 and signed on their behalf by: __ ____ Hon. Chairman Lucy Pollard _Steven Hooke_______ Hon. Treasurer

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

R.S.P.C.A GUILDFORD AND EPSOM BRANCH

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

A General

The accounts have been prepared under the historical cost convention and in accordance with applicable accounting standards and the Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting by Charities.

The accounts have been prepared on an accruals basis.

B Income

All income is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities once the charity has entitlement to the funds, it is probable that the income will be received, and the amount can be measured reliably.

Donations are recognised when the Charity has been notified in writing of both the amount and settlement date. In the event that a donation is subject to conditions that require a level of performance before the charity is entitled to the funds, the income is deferred and not recognised until either those conditions are fully met, or the fulfilment of those conditions is wholly within the control of the charity and it is probable that those conditions will be fulfilled in the reporting period.

Legacies are recognised on the earlier of either (a) the date that probate is granted, the estate has been finalised and notification has been made by the executor(s) to the Charity that a distribution will be made, or (b) when a distribution is received from the estate. Where legacies have been notified to the charity, or the charity is aware of the granting of probate, and the criteria for income recognition has not been met, then the legacy is disclosed in the notes to the accounts. Legacies received via the Branch legacy scheme are grossed up for the administration charges deducted, with the associated charges shown as expenditure in the year the legacy is credited.

Investment income is recognised on an accruals basis.

C Expenditure

Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably.

Expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all cost related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings, they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources.

D Tangible fixed assets

Depreciation is provided on equipment at rates of 25% to 33.3% per annum to write off the assets over their estimated useful lives of 3 or 4 years.

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

R.S.P.C.A GUILDFORD AND EPSOM BRANCH

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

E Fund accounting

Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the trustees. Designated funds represent those unrestricted funds which have been ring fenced by the trustees for a specific purpose. Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes, within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes.

Further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notes to the financial statements.

2. STATEMENT OF BRANCH COMMITTEE’S RESPONSIBILITIES

Charity law requires the branch committee, as trustees, to prepare financial statements for each year which give a true and fair view of the charity’s financial activities during the year, and the financial position at the end of the year. In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to:

3. INVESTMENT INCOME

Interest on Investment Bank Accounts
Gains in valuation of investments
COST OF GENERATING FUNDS
Pitch fees and licences		 2020
£
4,107
-
4,107
2020
£
234		 2019
£
3,801
1,888
5,689
2019
£
254

4. COST OF GENERATING FUNDS

5. FUNDS MOVEMENT

Unrestricted funds
Unrestricted funds
Designated funds
Restricted funds
Restricted income funds
Total funds		 At 1
January
2020
£
94,320
20,000
114,320
204,919
319,239		 Transfers
between
funds
£
215,856
(20,000)
195,856
(195,856)
-		 Net
movement
£
(12,934)
-
(12,934)
(9,063)
(21,997)		 At 31
December
2020
£
297,242
-
297,242
-
297,242

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

R.S.P.C.A GUILDFORD AND EPSOM BRANCH

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

In July 2020 the branch applied to the Charity Commission for permission to remove the restrictions in respect of former Epsom branch funds created by the merger of the branch with the RSPCA Surrey Epsom & District branch (“former Epsom branch”) in 2019. On 12 August 2020 the Charity Commission confirmed they were satisfied the requirements of section 275 of the Charities Act 2011 had been met and the removal of the restrictions became effective on 29 September 2020.

In December 2019, the Committee designated £20,000 of unrestricted funds to support the building of a new cattery at South Godstone. The South Godstone site was closed in 2020 as part of a restructuring of the RSPCA National Society. Following the closure, the Committee has removed the designation on this £20,000.

6. COMMITTEE MEMBERS’ EXPENSES AND REMUNERATION

No committee member received any remuneration and the branch has no paid staff. Four committee members were reimbursed a total of £1,215.19 for costs incurred.

7. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS

EQUIPMENT
COST
At 1 January
Additions
Disposals
At 31 December
DEPRECIATION
At 1 January
Charge for year
Disposals
At 31 December
NET BOOK VALUE
At 31 December
8. DEBTORS
Prepayments and accrued income
Other debtors		 2020
£
1,264
-
(795)
469
235
161
(221)
175
294
2020
£
1,959
4,723
6,682		 2019
£
-
1,264
-
1,264
-
235
-
235
1,029
2019
£
3,008
8,286
11,294

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

R.S.P.C.A GUILDFORD AND EPSOM BRANCH NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

9. COMPARATIVES FOR STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

INCOMING RESOURCES
Collecting Boxes
Sales of New and Donated Goods
Branch Fundraising Events
Branch Adoption Fees
Donations via HQ Door to Door Fundraising
Other Donations
Legacies
Contributions received for Community Action
Events
Membership Subscriptions
Investment Income
RESOURCES EXPENDED
Charitable Activities
Veterinary Treatment on Branch Voucher
Scheme
Neutering on Branch Voucher Scheme
Voucher Scheme and Charitable Expenses
Veterinary Treatment and Neutering of
Unowned Animals
Boarding and Food
Wildlife
Community Action Events
Donations
Branch Contribution to RSPCA Headquarters
and Region
Cost of Generating Funds
Governance Costs and Depreciation
AGM/Annual Reports
Administrative Expenses
Depreciation
Insurance
TOTAL EXPENDITURE
NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
TOTAL FUNDSBalance Brought Forward
Transfer of funds
TOTAL FUNDSBalance Carried Forward		 Unrestricted
funds
2019
£
Restricted
funds
2019
£
Total
funds
2019
£
298
-
298
364
-
364
1,786
-
1,786
2,160
-
2,160
53,478
-
53,478
8,194
213
8,407
-
5,100
5,100
4,284
-
4,284
455
-
455
3,738
1,951
5,689
74,757
7,264
82,021
16,055
9,589
25,644
2,502
2,509
5,011
649
419
1,068
6,234
1,088
7,322
13,461
5,745
19,206
2,227
2,228
4,455
4,749
-
4,749
15,445
-
15,445
3,308
-
3,308
64,630
21,578
86,208
254
-
254
211
600
811
426
339
765
235
-
235
263
262
525
1,135
1,201
2,336
66,019
22,779
88,798
8,738
(15,515)
(6,777)
326,016
-
326,016
(220,434)
220,434
-
114,320
204,919
319,239

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

R.S.P.C.A GUILDFORD AND EPSOM BRANCH

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

10. POST BALANCE SHEET EVENTS

COVID-19 PANDEMIC

On 5 January 2021, the U.K. Government announced a new set of restrictions to limit the spread of COVID-19. These restrictions have impacted the day to day operations of the branch during 2021, for example by restricting fund raising and welfare assistance activities that can be undertaken. The branch continues to be fortunate in having a good level of reserves and the majority of the branch’s cost base is variable, so expenditure can be reduced quickly if necessary. All investments are also available within one year, so the branch has limited liquidity risk.

SPOTLIGHT ON OUR WORK - here we showcase our educational work

Storm (featured on our front cover) was a beautiful 10-week-old German Shepherd puppy when she started to display severe signs of illness just 3 days after her owner Amber purchased her from an online seller. Storm had become lethargic and begun severely vomiting. Amber was obviously very concerned about Storm and took her to a vet. It was initially unclear exactly what was wrong with poor Storm and further investigations were needed; Storm also needed to have an IV drip as she was very dehydrated.

Amber was becoming increasingly concerned as her condition began to deteriorate further, the poor pup was also suffering from diarrhoea. Despite an examination Storm had still not been given a specific diagnosis and there was also the added worry of vets’ bills, which was causing additional concern for Amber because she had recently lost her job. Unfortunately, Amber was unable to claim any costs through her pet insurance, due to a clause in the policy.

Unsure as to what to do and in desperation, she contacted our branch to seek some advice and to ask if there was anything we could do. One of our volunteers Ann spoke with her, to find out more about Storm and to see if and how we could help.

After discussing the situation with Amber, it seemed possible that Storm could be suffering from parvovirus. Parvovirus is sadly very common, especially in dogs that have come from unsafe environments such as a puppy farm. Parvovirus is very contagious and can be caught from another infected dog, dog poo (it spreads in dog poo particles), or anything an infected dog has touched such as a food bowl or bedding. Sadly, the conditions that dogs have been kept in are not always clear to new owners who are seeking to give a puppy a lovely new home. Unvaccinated puppies, less than 6 months old are particularly prone to parvovirus infections and often get the most severe symptoms. Sadly, the chances of survival can be very low.

Ann stayed in touch with Amber throughout this traumatic time and spoke with another vet to look at options for Storm’s treatment, as well as discussing the possibility of some financial support so that Storm could get a test to confirm whether she was in fact suffering from parvovirus.

Amber then took Storm to a 24-hour vet where she had to stay for 3 nights, as sadly the test for parvovirus had been positive. This was a very distressing and uncertain time for Amber and her children, especially when at one point she was advised that Storm may not make it through and might need to be put to sleep.

Amber also set up a fundraising page following some advice from Ann to help raise funds for treatment.

Incredibly, over the 3 days Storm responded to the treatment provided by the caring veterinary team and she began to pull through and she amazingly survived this deadly virus. Storm is now going from strength to strength and settling into her new home with a loving family who adore her.

Amber has since reported the breeder to the relevant authorities and wants to help raise awareness of parvovirus to hopefully prevent any other dogs going through what Storm did.

We are pleased that we were able to help Amber and Storm and that this story had a very happy ending. The sun really did shine after the storm!