The RSPCA Sunderland, Hartlepool and South Tyneside branch is a separately registered charity. It does however, comply with the Rules and Guidelines issued by the National Society of the RSPCA and works tirelessly to achieve the Society’s objects throughout branch area.

Branch Merger

The Sunderland, Hartlepool and South Tyneside Branch was formed on 1st July 2009 following the merger of Hartlepool and District Branch and Sunderland and South Tyneside Branch, giving a much larger Branch area and the benefit that comes from economies of scale. The branch has continued to build on this through their activities with a clear focus on animal welfare activities and the priorities set by the RSPCA National Society.

The Branch

We are a commnunity and events-based branch operatiing from our Community Hub in Chester-le-Street. We provide financial assistance to help treat and care for those animals taken into RSPCA care from our local area. In more urgent cases, we also provide financial contributions towards emergency veterinary consultations, where members of the public are unable to get their pets seen by a vet.

We provide vouchers towards the cost of neutering and microchipping of companion animals for those in the Branch area on low incomes. This work helps to control dog/cat/rabbit and ferret populations through neutering and benefits those on means tested benefits by giving them financial help to neuter and microchip companion animals, thereby promoting responsible pet ownership.

We respond to enquiries from the public about animals locally, where we can sign-post and offer information on further assistance where needed.

We also operate a pet food bank from our Community Hub in chester-le-street. Those within our community who are meeting financial difficulties and who are finding it difficult to feed their pets can apply for pet food support directly via our branch: support@rspca-sunderland.org.uk

Within the terms of our governing document, we support the National Society and the local Inspectorate by providing vouchers for neutering to be issued by the Inspectors to members of the public in greatest need.

We provide volunteering opportunities for those who wish to support our work. This benefits local people and companies by providing the possibility of doing work, which is compassionate and rewarding.

We regularly host events to hlep raise awareness and funds to support the welfare of local animals in need, we work with local schools to help promote prevention education, and with local businesses and community groups, to strengthen awareness and insights into the impact of the wider work of the RSPCA.