A LIFELONG supporter of the JSPCA is urging members of the charity and those who care about the welfare of animals in Jersey to engage with the association over its plans to move from its St Saviour’s Road home.

Trish Williams, whose family have been closely involved with the JSPCA for more than 80 years, said that while she still had concerns about the charity’s search for a new site – which it announced last week – she was supporting the plan after meeting committee members this week.

Mrs Williams said: “When the JSPCA’s recently installed committee announced that it was looking for a new base, I did have several concerns around the speed of that decision, the fact that it had been attempted several times in the past, and whether moving from town was the right decision, considering it is in walking distance of thousands of pet-owners.

Growing up, the JSPCA was absolutely part of my life, and I want nothing but success for it

Trish Williams

She added: “Growing up, the JSPCA was absolutely part of my life, and I want nothing but success for it. The team there are wonderful and I’m sure this decision has the right heart and motive behind it. But I had concerns that this was an emotional response which has not been properly thought through.”

However, Mrs Williams said that after meeting JSPCA committee members this week, she better understood the rationale behind the proposed move – but added that it was essential that supporters were kept up to date and were part of the process.

“Communication is everything and while I appreciate this is early days and not all the costings are available, it is important that the Islanders who care passionately about the JSPCA, and animals in general, are kept in the loop.  

“I am encouraged that the charity has promised to do just that.”

Mrs Williams and her family have a long association with the JSPCA: her father and grandfather were both vets and closely involved with the organisation. She was also committee member for seven years, until last year.

Last week, the charity announced its relocation plans and called on Islanders to help identify suitable sites around the Island.

Recently appointed JSPCA president Lisa Springate said: “Relocating is not simply about finding another location, it is about securing a rural, modern and future proofed facility for the animals who depend on us, while ensuring the sustainability of the charity by being able to generate income.

“We are asking anyone who may be able to help to come forward, in order that we can continue the essential work that is required for the next chapter.”

Responding to Mrs Williams’ comments, JSCPA vice-president George De Sousa said that the charity had apologised to members for only meeting them after the announcement but it had just been a timing issue, after needing to first tell staff, who were all on board, and tenants.

“This week, we were able to explain the rationale behind the proposal,” he said. “The JSPCA has been part of Island life for 160 years and this is a way to secure another 160.

“This requires us to move in order to have an income stream, especially since we lost our charity shop at Sion, which had to close due to the impact of the roadworks. We are exploring various avenues and assure all members that we will keep them fully aware of progress.”

Mr De Sousa added that a new JSPCA base might include an education centre, wildlife centre, charity shop and café, as well as cattery, kennels and dog behavioural centre.