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2025-12-31-accounts

ANNUAL REPORT 2025

Found as a stray in the woods, Faerah is a beautiful Ragdoll cat who is now enjoying the loving forever home she deserves. Although she was discovered underweight and in poor condition, she is fully recovered after being nursed back to health.

CONTENTS

Some of the animals we rescued in 2025

Introduction

Useful contact details

Trustees’ report

  1. Reference and administration details

  2. Introduction by the Chair

  3. Structure, governance and management

  4. Objectives and activities

  5. Achievements and performance

  6. Financial review

  7. Plans for the future

Some of the animals we rehabilitated in 2025

Financial statements

Inspectorate report

Some of the animals we rehomed in 2025

SUCCESSES IN THE YEAR - some of the animals we rescued in 2025

Tiny Tim, a puppy who had been abandoned, found a second chance thanks to our friends at Surrey Woking & District Branch. His femur was shattered, with amputation of the leg being the kindest option for him. After his surgery, they then provided the perfect foster space for his recovery and eventually

matched him with a wonderful forever home. We are incredibly grateful for their support.

As you can see from the photo on the right, he’s happily thriving on three legs. His adopter says the lack of a leg doesn't stop him chasing anything he can!

We had a call about a female cat with kittens at the Slyfield recycling centre in Guildford. They were in a large storage container and tricky to get to, so we set a trap and caught mum within an hour. She was in a poor state - starving, exhausted, with pale gums and glassy eyes. Her three kittens, roughly two weeks old, were equally vulnerable and suffering from eye infections. After being checked over at the vets, all the cats were taken to RSPCA Millbrook who kindly stepped in as they were better placed to provide the specialised, round-the-clock care this little family required.

Aslan, an Angora rabbit, was rescued after being dumped at Stoke Park. Due to extreme matting and neglect, the vet had to shave his overgrown coat. He is pictured here being kept warm with a small jacket as he begins his journey to recovery. This super cutie was very quickly snapped up by an adopter.

INTRODUCTION

The RSPCA is the world’s oldest and largest animal welfare charity, with much of its direct animal welfare work being carried out through its branches.

We are the RSPCA Guildford and Epsom Branch; a self-funding branch of the RSPCA. We raise money locally to fund our animal welfare work to prevent cruelty, promote kindness and rescue, rehabilitate and rehome animals in need in our branch area . All of our work, including managing the branch, is carried out by volunteers. We rehabilitate and rehome animals in our care (the majority of which are cats and rabbits) through fosterers and private kennels and catteries.

In 2025, we funded 307 essential veterinary treatments, providing a vital lifeline for pets in need of medical care. We also helped 301 pets get neutered and 161 get microchipped. In addition to this, we paid for every check-up, vaccination, and treatment needed by the 62 animals we took into branch care, and paid for specialist veterinary aid for 29 rescued wild animals.

Animal welfare needs and therefore our branch's activities can vary significantly from year to year, shaped by factors such as availability of vet resources, economic trends, and community initiatives. We saw a small decrease in the number of animals requiring our support for welfare assistance cases in 2025 but we did even more to help prevent animals from getting sick or lost, with more neutering and microchipping procedures funded. Additionally, while our direct animal intake rose considerably, the number of wild animals requiring specialist veterinary care dropped significantly compared to last year.

OUR VISION

We support the vision of the national Society which is to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with kindness and compassion. We believe that:

USEFUL CONTACT DETAILS

COMPLAINTS AND ADVICE Anyone suspecting cruelty or mistreatment to animals should report the incident to the RSPCA via www.rspca.org.uk/reportcruelty or telephoning 0300 1234 999. All calls are dealt with in the strictest confidence.

BRANCH CONTACT DETAILS

Telephone: 07906 924002

Email: info@rspcaguildfordepsom.org.uk

If your enquiry relates to volunteering, please contact: volunteer @rspcaguildfordepsom.org.uk If you are looking to adopt from us, please contact: rehoming@ rspcaguildfordepsom.org.uk

Facebook: www.facebook.com/rspcaguildfordepsom

Website: www.rspcaguildfordepsom.org.uk

LOCAL ANIMAL CENTRE CHIEF INSPECTOR RSPCA Millbrook Animal Centre The Chief Inspector Guildford Road RSPCA Millbrook Animal Centre Chobham, Surrey Guildford Road, Chobham, Surrey GU24 8EH GU24 8EH Tel: 0300 123 0740 Email: millbrook@rspca.org.uk BRANCH PARTNERSHIP MANAGER Email: supportercare@rspca.org.uk Animal viewings and introductions by appointment only.

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 5

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

TRUSTEES’ REPORT

1. Reference and administration details 1. Reference and administration details
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

Names of the trustees who manage the charity

Trustee name Ofce (if any) Dates acted if not for whole
year
Alessandra Cappai
Steven Hooke Hon. Treasurer
Abbi Moore*
Lucy Pollard Hon. Chair
Katrina Tully Hon. Secretary
Rebecca Verne Membership Secretary
Sarah White
Ann Winter

*Abbi is employed by the RSPCA national Society. We obtained its approval before co-opting her as a trustee, as required by branch rule 7.4.

Other support provided by

Othersupport provided by
Trasna Palmer President
Victoria Robson Branch Partnership Manager (to 31 January 2025)
Natalie Easel Branch Partnership Manager (from 1 February 2025)

2. Introduction b the Chair y

Reflecting on 2025, I am incredibly proud of what our small branch has achieved. With the cost of vet bills continuing to climb, the help we provide feels more important than ever. We’ve had a busy year with more people taking up our affordable neutering offers, and we’re so grateful for the extra fundraising support that made it possible. Helping animals is at the centre of everything we do. This year, we provided a safety net for local pets and wildlife through several key pillars of care:

Veterinary welfare and direct care : We have provided financial assistance for over 300 essential veterinary treatments and taken 62 vulnerable animals into our care, ensuring all their medical and rehabilitation needs were fully met before they moved on to their new lives.

Preventative care : We are passionate about proactive welfare. By supporting local pet food banks, we helped owners facing financial hardship stay united with their companions. Our commitment to neutering and microchipping also remained a top priority; these are vital steps in preventing unwanted litters and ensuring lost pets can be reunited with their families .

Wildlife support : We equipped the Joanna Wildlife Hospital to aid them with wildlife rehabilitation. Through our partnership with Wildlife Aid we ensured that rescued wild animals received the specialist veterinary aid required for a successful return to the wild.

Collaboration : We continued to equip our Inspectorate team with the essential treatments and kit necessary for their frontline rescue work. We remain grateful to the RSPCA Millbrook Animal Centre and the RSPCA Woking and District Branch for their continued partnership and assistance.

None of this life-saving care would be possible without our fundraising team. This year, we grew our presence in the community through an increased calendar of events. Whether we are collecting at supermarkets or selling donated goods at fete stalls, these moments are about more than just raising funds; they are our most vital way to connect with our supporters.

Thank Yous:

To our Supporters and Donors: Every pound we raise at our events goes straight toward a vet bill, a neutering voucher, or a bag of food for someone in need.

To our Volunteers and Event Organisers: We are incredibly grateful for the time and energy you give. Running 17 events in a single year is a massive undertaking, and your dedication is the reason we can afford to say "yes" to help an animal in pain.

To our Veterinary Partners: Thank you for your continued professionalism and for working alongside us to provide the best possible outcomes for the animals in our care.

To our Fosterers and my fellow Trustees: this branch runs on your hard work. I am so grateful for the hours you give and your love for animals. On a sadder note, we said goodbye to one of our very first cat fosterers, Rene, who passed away in November. We will miss her greatly.

As we look ahead to 2026, our goal remains clear: to be a steady hand for animals in need and a source of support for the people who love them. We certainly have our work cut out for us, but I'm so lucky to have a brilliant committee and dedicated volunteers by my side. With a community like ours backing us, I’m sure we can keep making a real difference to local animal welfare.

Lucy Pollard, Chair

3. Structure, governance and management 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
fundraising and for managing local animal welfare work.
Trustee selection
methods		 The committee consists of a maximum of 17 individuals, being:
(1) at least 5 and not more than 14 elected committee members, all of whom
must be eligible branch members, elected at the AGM and
(2) up to 3 co-opted committee members, who may also 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 Ofce enquiries,
advertising and appeals to members. Potential new trustees are vetted in
accordance with Charity Commission guidelines 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 the Information Commissioner’s Ofce and Charity
Commission guidance. They also receive support from other trustees,
guidance from Head Ofce and Branch Partnership Managers, and a
handover from retiring ofcers 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 defned 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 Ofce staff, the Inspectorate,
RSPCA Millbrook Animal Centre and other branches and animal centres in its
day-to-day work.
Trustees’
consideration of
major risks and
the system and
procedures to
manage them		 The main risks facing the Branch are:
People.The primary risk facing the Branch remains the recruitment of
personnel. We continue to face challenges in flling both formal Trustee
positions and vital frontline welfare roles. To mitigate this, we are broadening
our approach; while governance is essential, we also have a critical need for
volunteers to 'own' specifc operational tasks. These include drivers for
animal transport, leads for publicity and social media, and coordinators for
fundraising events. 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. Safeguarding matters are reviewed at every meeting. 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.

Financial. While recent legacy income has strengthened our immediate position, we remain mindful of the long-term balance between rising demand for our services and available resources. Despite pressing need, we must evaluate what we can afford to fund. Insufficient income levels mean that we may 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.

Levels of pet ownership grew during the Covid pandemic, and whilst owning a pet is a great boost to both mental and physical health it also comes with a substantial financial responsibility, which places additional pressure on charities when owners are unable to meet the costs of pet ownership.

The vets we work with continue to struggle with significant shortages in staff, set against a huge demand for their services. Many practices are not accepting new clients or giving appointments to people who have previously got into payment difficulties. This impacts our ability to access veterinary treatments and negotiate on price, and it may mean that non-urgent procedures such as neuters are delayed. This has led to more unwanted litters and conditions that require emergency treatment such as tumours that are hormone-related.

Public opinion. The RSPCA is a well-known and respected brand, and we must ensure that we do not tarnish it. The thorough screening and induction of new volunteers, as well as ongoing and appropriate training, are just some of the activities that help mitigate this. Trustees in particular, complete regular learning and instruction (specifically on their responsibilities as branch officials), and discuss potential conflicts of interest at every branch meeting.

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. Abbi Moore is also a paid employee of the RSPCA (national Society).

4. Objectives and activities
Summary of the
To promote the work and objectives of the national Society; Royal Society for
objectives of the
the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (registered charity number 219099), with
charity
particular reference to the area of the Branch, in accordance with the policies
set out in its
of the society.
governing
document
The objectives of the Branch remain unchanged from previous years.
Charity’s aim
The RSPCA as a charity will, by all lawful means, prevent cruelty, promote
kindness to, and alleviate suffering of, all animals.
Summary of the
The Branch promotes animal welfare in the local area primarily through
main
veterinary assistance, neutering and rehoming.
activities in
relation to
●
We offer discretionary support to people in need to help pay veterinary
these objects
bills.
●
We respond to enquiries from the public about animals and offer free
animal care advice by phone, social media, leafets 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 fnancial difculties, 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 Society
animal centres.
●
We support the Inspectorate as a priority.
●
We undertake educational presentations and workshops with local
groups and schools.
More detail on our activities can be found in section 5 of this report.

5. Achievements and erformance p

A. Animal welfare

Rehoming, adoption support and fostering

We rehome 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 Animal Centre, which is the nearest RSPCA animal centre to the Branch. The Branch 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 but there is no room for them in an animal centre. Stray dogs fall under the remit of the local council. As we lack the specialised facilities and expertise required for canine care, we work closely with other RSPCA branches and partner rescue organisations to ensure any dogs we encounter are placed in the best possible hands.

Every animal that comes to us has their own story - some are bold and loud, others are quiet or perhaps a little wonky - but they all deserve a fresh start. Animals in our care receive veterinary treatment, vaccinations, neutering and microchipping. They are cared for and rehabilitated, while we search for loving new homes. Flea and other parasite treatments are kept up to date. This helps to control the incidence and spread of disease and suffering.

Fostering is our preferred environment. Our cat fosterers provide one-on-one attention in a home environment that is difficult to achieve in a cattery, helping cats recover their health and confidence much faster, meaning they are able to be rehomed sooner. Our outdoor rabbit fosterers are a fantastic resource; they step up time and again to take in rabbits - sometimes in large groups - ensuring no bunny is left without a safe place to stay. Our indoor rabbit fosterers obviously have more limited capacity but provide an essential environment to those rabbits that can’t be housed outdoors - especially in the colder months. All of our fosterers have been invaluable in their work to rehabilitate animals in their care and progress them to rehoming with wonderful new homes. We are always keen to speak to potential fosterers as this support allows us to save more lives while reducing boarding costs.

When our own spaces are full - which happens more often than we’d like - we work closely with the wider RSPCA network to find room in animal centres, ensuring as many animals as possible get the care they need.

We do not just look for homes; we look for the right home. Our goal is to ensure that every placement we make is a permanent one.To give them the best chance of being seen, we share their profiles across our website, Facebook, and the national RSPCA website.

Our efforts resulted in 38 animals rehomed through our branch this year - a wonderful increase from 33 last year.

Our volunteer home-checkers are essential to our work. They are not just ticking boxes; they are there to understand what each animal needs - whether that’s a big garden to run in or a quiet sofa to snooze on. By getting to know the adopters and following up later, they make sure that when we place an animal in a home, it’s for keeps.

Welfare assistance

We provide support to people in need to help pay their vet bills. The 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 number of unwanted cats, dogs and rabbits.

With the cost of living still hitting pet owners hard, being able to offer a helping hand with vet bills has been a huge part of our work again this year.

Veterinary interventions : In 2025, we provided financial help for 307 medical treatments , ensuring pets got the care they needed when their owners were struggling to meet the costs.

Affordable neutering: We’re proud to have helped 260 animals get neutered this year. A big part of this was our World Spay Day offer, which helped 205 local cats and their owners access affordable neutering.

We could not do any of this without our local vets - their support and expertise are what make this possible.

Our care extends beyond domestic pets. This year, we funded specialist treatment for 29 wild animals - including hedgehogs, foxes, and pigeons - at Wildlife Aid in Leatherhead.

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. We paid for flea and worm treatment supplies to be held in their vans (helping owners improve care and keep their pets). 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.

We advertised a number of lost and found pets through the year but microchipping is our best resource to help return missing animals to their relieved and delighted owners. Microchipped pets, where contact details are kept up to date, are more easily reunited with their families, avoiding heartache for the owners and costs for the RSPCA. Unfortunately, the care of unidentifiable, stray animals adds significantly to our work.

*with the exception of stray dogs who fall under the remit of the local authority.

We believe all cats, dogs and rabbits should be microchipped to help ensure that a pet can be reunited with their owner, and to aid this we will pay for chipping where required. We microchipped 161 animals in 2025: 24 that were Branch animals and 137 owned pets.

B. Education

Education events

Our education events look at the work of the RSPCA, the welfare needs of animals and the action young people can take to help them at home, at school and in the local community. We want everyone to feel empowered that – whatever their age or circumstances – they can help change animal welfare for the better. By understanding the causes of neglect or cruelty, we can prevent them from even happening in the first place.

The talks and workshops we provide are tailored to the audience following consultation with their teachers or youth leaders. This year, our activities included school talks in Tadworth, a workshop with the Nightingale Brownies in Guildford, and a return visit to Cranleigh C of E school for an activities stall at their wildlife week event. We also engaged with students at the Merrist Wood college freshers fair.

We are looking at new ways to engage with schools to secure more invitations in future. Please contact us at info@rspcaguildfordepsom.org.uk to discuss an event or collaboration.

Our welfare line also operates throughout the year and provides advice to the general public to help with pets, wildlife, and farm animals, and educate where we can. The RSPCA has online educational facilities which we can direct individuals to and have promoted on our social media.

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 or 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 to offer low-cost cat neutering and free microchipping for both male and female cats in the Branch area.

We remain committed to supporting Rabbit Awareness Week promotions. We continued our previous initiative 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.

C. Fundraising

Fundraising events and activities

Our fundraising momentum continued to grow this year with 17 successful events - an increase from 14 in 2024 - alongside E-card sales.

We owe a special debt of gratitude to ‘maker’ volunteer Lorna and our President, Trasna. Together, they raised an incredible £1,439 . Lorna’s vibrant, hand-knitted catnip mice and Trasna’s tireless on-line sales of donated items have been vital. Beyond the funds raised, their work serves as a wonderful touchpoint for community awareness. We also thank our dedicated committee members, who boosted our totals by rehoming second-hand items and homegrown plants at vintage fairs and online.

Pets at Home chose the branch as its charity for its Guildford store. This will enable us to have a friendly face in-store to meet the public and tell them about the animals we have for rehoming. They also give us some free pallet loads of animal food which we will use for animals in our care and our work with local foodbanks, helping us provide essential nourishment to pets whose owners are going through difficult times.

Event type 2025 2024
Town centre collections £848 £695
Store collections £957 £414
Fetes and local fairs £1,125 £659
Car boot sales £255 £229
E-cards and online events £1,184 £317

The money raised by these activities is disclosed in the accounts against the following categories: “Branch Fundraising Events” and “Other Donations”. However, “Other Donations” also includes monies raised through fundraising platforms such as Easyfundraising and Paypal, ticket sales through the Guildford Community Lottery and donations made via our website.

Collection boxes

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 its surrounding areas. We welcome suggestions for new locations and for people to manage collection boxes in the 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

Overall expenditure in 2025 increased by £14,773 to £115,624. This increase includes £6,125 for a legacy administration fee payable to RSPCA Head Office in respect of the legacy income received during the year, with the remaining increase reflecting higher costs, mainly for veterinary treatments.

Income increased by £204,860 to £274,134 in 2025. The branch was fortunate to receive a substantial legacy of £204,181 in 2025 which accounts for the increase in income. The share of donations raised by the RSPCA HQ door-to-door fundraising campaign, which amounted to £41,039 in 2025 makes up only 15% of the income in the current year (2024: £43,632 and 63%) due to the substantial legacy income. The Branch also received no contributions from the South-East Regional Board (SERB), following a SERB policy change to target contributions at those branches in most need. Investment income increased by £3,529 compared to the prior year, due to higher average investment balances.

Overall, there was a net surplus for the year of £158,510 compared to a deficit of £31,577 in 2024. If the legacy income and administration cost are excluded, the branch would have incurred a deficit for 2025 of £39,546. The significant legacy income received in 2025 has further bolstered the Branch reserves. The Branch aims to reduce these 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.

The reserves policy of the Branch is to hold general reserves to a level that, should all income cease, there would be sufficient funds in hand to run the Branch for approximately 24 months. Based on this measure the Branch currently has excess reserves. The Trustees aim to reduce reserves over time by targeting increased levels of annual expenditure on activities or donations that further the animal welfare aims of the Branch .

The Branch invests surplus funds in capital-safe bank and deposit-based savings accounts where the deposits are covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).

7. Plans for the future 7. Plans for the future
Aims and objectives
for the future		 Our overriding aim is to continue to provide and promote animal welfare
for the local area by offering fnancial assistance for those on low
incomes, continuing with our fostering and rehoming work to ensure a
healthy and happy lifestyle for adopted animals, and to support the
national Society.
Our main area of focus is to improve 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:
●People
●Revenue Generation
●Strong Governance
●Public Engagement
The Plan is reviewed regularly and adapted to refect changing
circumstances and priorities.
Activities planned to
achieve the objectives
1. People
2.Revenue Generation
3. Strong Governance
4. Public Engagement		 ●Expand and effectively manage, utilise, and retain our volunteer
network and membership
●Defne clear roles and responsibility for trustee and volunteer roles
with a focus on succession planning
●Set up a fundraising working group to provide a dedicated focus on
revenue generation ideas (including an emphasis on digital)
●Empower and engage members and volunteers to spread our
messages and support fundraising efforts
●Diversify income generation by exploring and evaluating alternative
revenue streams
●Continue our robust approach to managing and refreshing policies,
procedures and processes
●Foster stronger connectivity, sharing and leverage of best practices
across the Branch Network
●Build and enhance positive relationships with the public and our
communities, including amplifying national RSPCA advocacy areas
●Build our existing digital channels to communicate branch activities
and successes
●Explore opportunities to work with other organisations covering public
interests
Other plans for the
future		 Following the national Society’s recommendation, the Trustees have
decided to move to a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) structure
to beneft from a more efcient and modern governance framework. While
we will be gradually switching to this new structure and a new charity
number throughout 2026, nothing signifcant changes. Our team, our
vision, and our dedication to the animals in our care remain exactly the
same.

Declaration

The trustees declare that they have approved the Trustees’ Report above.

Signed on behalf of the charity’s trustees

Lucy Pollard Hon. Chair DATE: 27 May 2026

SUCCESSES IN THE YEAR – some of the animals we rehabilitated in 2025

When Sandy was dumped at a local vet, she was in a pitiful state - suffering from a painful urinary tract infection, a concerning lump, and in desperate need of dental work and spaying. After receiving the extensive veterinary care she required, Sandy has been nursed back to good health. She is finally living the happy, pain-free life she so deserves.

We are so grateful to The Guildford Vet for their support during Sandy’s rehabilitation. By growing moustaches for ‘Movember’, their staff raised a fantastic donation toward the cost of her care.

Nigel arrived as a stray carrying the physical toll of life on the streets. He had several old wounds and a severe leg injury - likely sustained while fleeing from danger - that unfortunately required amputation. On top of his physical injuries, he also tested positive for FIV which is a viral infection that affects the immune system. His story is a great reminder of how grueling life can be for homeless cats.

We are thrilled that Nigel has been rehomed (as an indoor cat due to his FIV status). He’s traded the danger of the streets for a forever home where he’ll never have to run from trouble again.

Rocky and Bella were rescued by the Inspectorate in a dire state, suffering from severe malnutrition. Their journey to health began in the care of one of our trustees, who managed their recovery with a specialist 'slow-feed' regimen to safely rebuild their strength.

We are incredibly proud of their transformation (Rocky, right) and thrilled to have partnered with another charity, Lulu's Friends, to find them a loving permanent home together.

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF RSPCA GUILDFORD AND EPSOM BRANCH

I report on the accounts of the Charity (Registered Charity number 203608) for the year ended 31 December 2025, 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

27 May 2026

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

RSPCA GUILDFORD AND EPSOM BRANCH

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

NOTE
INCOMING RESOURCES
Collectng Boxes
Branch Fundraising Events
Branch Adopton Fees
Donatons via HQ Door to Door Fundraising
Contributons From Regional Board
Other Donatons
Legacies
Membership Subscriptons
Investment Income
3
RESOURCES EXPENDED
Charitable Actvites
Veterinary Treatment on Branch Voucher Scheme
Neutering on Branch Voucher Scheme
Veterinary Treatment and Neutering of Unowned Animals
Boarding and Food
Wildlife
Donatons
Branch Contributon to RSPCA Headquarters and Region
Other Charitable Expenses
Cost of Generatng Funds
4
Governance Costs and Depreciaton
AGM/Annual Reports
Administratve Expenses
Insurance
TOTAL EXPENDITURE
NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS FOR THE YEAR
TOTAL FUNDSBalance Brought Forward
TOTAL FUNDSBalance Carried Forward		 Total
funds
2025
£
245
4,369
4,010
41,039
-
4,602
204,181
280
15,408
274,134
47,156
23,904
21,290
6,081
4,779
53
3,308
1,702
108,273
6,430
222
230
469
921
115,624
158,510
278,737
437,247		 Total
funds
2024
£
194
2,314
3,701
43,632
2,062
5,164
-
328
11,879
69,274
40,348
29,577
12,283
3,674
4,975
3,357
3,308
1,689
99,211
130
294
397
819
1,510
100,851
(31,577)
310,314
278,737

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

RSPCA GUILDFORD AND EPSOM BRANCH

BALANCE SHEET

AT 31 DECEMBER 2025

NOTE
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible fxed assets
6
Investment Bank Accounts
CURRENT ASSETS
Debtors
7
Investment Bank Accounts
Cash at bank - Current Account
CREDITORS (falling due within 1 year)
Creditors
NET CURRENT ASSETS
NET ASSETS
UNRESTRICTED FUNDS		 2025
£
-
50,000
50,000
12,256
380,024
8,294
400,574
(13,327)
387,247
437,247
437,247		 2024
£
-
-
-
7,802
272,500
7,332
287,634
(8,897)
278,737
278,737
278,737

Approved by the Trustees on 27 May 2026 and signed on their behalf by:

__________ Hon. Chairman

__________ Hon. Treasurer

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

RSPCA GUILDFORD AND EPSOM BRANCH

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

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 costs 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 a rate of 25% per annum to write off the assets over an estimated useful life of 4 years.

The Trustees have a policy that only items over £500 are capitalised and depreciated. Lower value items are included in the Statement of Financial Activities.

E Investment bank accounts

The Branch invests surplus funds in investment bank accounts including instant access accounts, notice accounts and fixed rate bonds. Where the maturity date of the investment bank account is greater than

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

RSPCA GUILDFORD AND EPSOM BRANCH

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

E Investment bank accounts (continued)

one year from the balance sheet date, these investments are included within fixed asset investments. Where the maturity date is less than one year from the balance sheet date, the investments are included within current assets.

F 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 objectives of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes.

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:
Fixed assets
Current assets
COST OF GENERATING FUNDS
Legacy administraton fees
Pitch fees and licences
Electronic payment fees		 2025
£
1,115
14,293
15,408
2025
£
6,125
288
17
6,430		 2024
£
-
11,879
11,879
2024
£
-
130
-
130

4. COST OF GENERATING FUNDS

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

RSPCA GUILDFORD AND EPSOM BRANCH

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

5. COMMITTEE MEMBERS’ EXPENSES AND REMUNERATION

No committee member received any remuneration, and the Branch has no paid staff. Three committee members were reimbursed a total of £2,919.22 for costs incurred.

6. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS

EQUIPMENT
COST
At 1 January
At 31 December
DEPRECIATION
At 1 January
At 31 December
NET BOOK VALUE
At 31 December
DEBTORS
Prepayments and accrued income
Other debtors		 2025
£
469
469
469
469
-
2025
£
9,619
2,637
12,256		 2024
£
469
469
469
469
-
2024
£
6,956
846
7,802

7. DEBTORS

8. POST BALANCE SHEET EVENTS

The branch has been notified by the Head Office legal team of a further significant legacy, with an estimated value of £168,442. An interim distribution was received on 14 April 2026 of £85,000 less a £2,550 legacy administration fee, and will be accounted for as incoming resources in 2026.

During 2025 the charity’s trustees decided that there were advantages in becoming a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO). The national Society is encouraging all local branches to make this change which makes it easier to own property and limits the individual liability of trustees. As such a new incorporated charity (number 1212856) was successfully registered with the Charity Commission and the intention is to transfer all assets to this new body during 2026.

RSPCA Surrey Inspectorate Team - Annual Report 2025

Surrey team news

The Surrey team have gone through quite a few changes this year, not least the upheaval of a new Chief Inspector. Sadly Rob Jackson moved to the Partnership, Prevention and Volunteer team after around 10 years of heading up the group. He was replaced by myself (Tina Nash). Wow what a group to join, the hardwork, passion, knowledge and skill set of the team is nothing short of amazing. As if that wasn’t enough we sadly said goodbye to Jo Bowling who had dedicated over 20 years to animal welfare. Louis Horton left in February to join Wildlife Aid; our loss is very much their gain, and in April we said a sad goodbye to Leanna Hone who left to work for another local branch, so still keeping us very much in arms reach. With all the loss we did manage to secure a new Animal Rescue Officer in Meg LLoyd who has fitted in very well and is now very much part of the team.

We continue to build our partnership working with outside partner agencies, with the scope of service and our capacity being at breaking point. Cats Protection continues to work alongside us at various locations. World Horse Welfare is not only a font of all knowledge but assists us in taking horses and working with us to achieve great outcomes. Wildlife Aid steps in where we can not get to wildlife due to having so much welfare work for domestic animals. And of course our branches are our shoulders to lean on!

Case work has increased and now with fewer Inspectors to put together files, our Inspectors have had to change their way of working, by mainly being case officers. The Animal Rescue Officers are picking up the cases and are becoming more experienced by the day with complex incidents and are rising and excelling at the challenge.

We can’t thank our volunteers enough for all of the running around they do on our behalf, moving everything from food to deceased bodies around the county and surrounding areas. There has been some upskilling and will be more on the cards for some of the volunteers which allows them to do more and increase the assistance they provide. It really does go a long way to allow the officers to get to more animals that are in serious need more quickly. They even get roped into dog shows!

Case and significant complaint work in 2025

Surrey Inspectors submitted 28 case files to our Prosecution team in 2025 for their consideration. That is an increase from the previous year when 24 files were submitted. The team continues to assist surrounding areas, due to lack of Inspectors in those groups. Of those 28 case files, 11 resulted in court proceedings, and a further 12 resulted in a Caution being issued.

Here is a selection of just some of those cases which were concluded this yea r:

Back in 2023, Inspector Jo Bowling started an investigation concerning a cat called Teddy Bear, that had died whilst in the presence of the owner's grandson, in Woking. A post mortem was carried out after the vet voiced suspicions. Showing multiple catastrophic injuries the man in question continued to express his innocence stating a box had fallen on the cat. The case was eventually sent to crown court but after 2 years the man changed his plea to guilty. The judge clearly understood the seriousness of this case and ordered the man to serve 3 years in prison, along with a lifetime ban on all animals. What a fantastic result which reflects the torture and suffering this poor cat went through.

Inspector Leanna Hone finally saw justice for Betty after a lengthy investigation. Betty along with 2 cats was left alone for months in a flat after the owners moved out. The owners asked a neighbour to attend in their absence. Although the neighbour did attend, nothing was done for Betty’s decline in

weight, eventually resulting in her collapse. Both the owners and the neighbour were sentenced to suspended sentences, fines up to £650 each and Rehabilitation Activity Requirement (RAR) days of up to 10 days each and all received bans on all animals for between 7-10 years. Betty has since been rehomed and is doing marvelously.

A recent outcome from a long awaited neglect case was about some cats dumped into a wheelie bin and left to suffer horrendously, the owner was sentenced to 4 months custody,

suspended for 2 years, a 10 year ban on cats and dogs and 10 RAR days. 15 of the 23 cats went on to find loving homes.

On a nicer note, this dog that was rescued by Animal Rescue Officer Lloyd has found a loving new home. The owner was struggling with 2 dogs that she could not cope with so in the dog’s best interest and with help from the Surrey Woking & District Branch she was signed over, and now looks like she is living her best life.

Thank yous

I would like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to the Surrey officers that have made me feel so welcome and appreciated within their team. They work so hard every day to create a better world for all animals.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all of the branches that go above and beyond with their patience, assistance, funding, boarding and all round care that they show to animals and the team in Surrey. Where would be without you all. I look forward to continuing the journey with the Surrey team and everyone that makes this juggernaut continue on the path for ultimately a better life for those animals that do not have a voice!

Bring on 2026

Tina Nash Chief Inspector Surrey

SUCCESSES IN THE YEAR – some of the animals we rehomed in 2025

After the sudden loss of his companion to stasis, Lionhead rabbit Lloyd was left navigating deep grief, and his family found the heartbreak of the situation too difficult to manage. Thankfully, Lloyd’s story did not end in loneliness. He was welcomed into a new home where, through a careful bonding process, Lloyd found a new friend in Coco.

Nova and Nebula, two golden British shorthairs, came into our care when their elderly owner was sadly unable to look after them. They began by becoming velcro cats with their fosterer - following her from room to room and refusing to miss out on any of the action. Their great personalities meant they soon found a loving home together.

Sisters Rosie and Petal are Dutch lop cross rabbits who came into our care when their owner was unable to care for them due to illness. In full health and with friendly temperaments, these girls soon found a new home. Their adopters said: “They have free run of the whole living room. Rosie likes to lie under the radiator and watch out of the window. Petal loves playing with cardboard boxes and toys on the mat.”

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