Burnley charity shop seeks further support to help region’s animals

A charity shop on St James’s Street is seeking further support from people in the area as it looks to build upon the help it provides to the region’s animals.

Burnley’s RSPCA Lancashire East Branch charity shop generates much-needed revenue to fund the rehabilitation and rehoming of the sick, injured, abandoned and abused animals that are cared for at the Altham animal centre just outside Accrington.

The shop also acts as a point of contact for local people who are interested in learning more about how they can adopt or foster an animal.

Speaking to Discover Burnley, RSPCA Lancashire East Branch chief executive, James Stevens, outlined how people can get involved in the cause and the ways in which their generosity can benefit animals of all shapes and sizes.

“Many of the animals that come into our care do not do well in an animal centre environment and we have recently launched our new fostering initiative in a bid to recruit a team of foster carers who will take animals into their homes and their hearts,” said James.

“We are always on the lookout for new volunteers to help in our shops and at the animal centre and, as is widely documented, volunteering is a fantastic way to gain new skills and confidence, meet new people and to help a worthwhile cause.

“On top of this, one of our new fundraising projects gives supporters the opportunity to donate just £1 to provide dinner for one of the dogs in our care, simply make a donation at the till as you pay.”

Of course, one of the main ways people can support the RSPCA in East Lancashire is by making a purchase in the Burnley shop on St James’s Street itself and as James explained, there are many reasons to go along and have a browse.

“We are very lucky in receiving very high-quality donations from our supporters. These range from designer brands to unusual and rare collectables and because our stock changes daily, there is always something new on display and a bargain to be found. 

“From homeware, kitchenware, jewellery, clothing and footwear to games, toys, antiques and even small electrical appliances, our shop is a little treasure trove that is well worth exploring. And what’s more, anything you buy goes towards an amazing cause. Those UK taxpayers donating goods for sale in support of the charity can also sign up to our Gift Aid Scheme, which means we can raise even more money for the animal centre.”

James then turned his attention to the branch’s aims and objectives for the next 12 months as it seeks to make a bigger difference than ever before.

“Over the next year we aim to grow our volunteer base to help us increase turnover in the shops, which in turn means the Branch can help more animals,” commented James. 

“In addition, we will be actively promoting RSPCA campaigns and fundraising events in a bid to get more local people involved in our work.”

For more information about the charity’s Burnley branch, please head to facebook.com/AlthamRSPCA/ or send an email to [email protected].