A new regional group has been formed under the Association of Dogs and Cats Homes (ADCH) to bring together animal welfare charities across the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man.

The ADCH Islands Regional Group, led by Steve Byrne, GSPCA Manager and ADCH Regional Co-ordinator, held its first-ever meeting last month, marking a significant step forward in collaboration and shared learning.

The virtual meeting brought together teams from the GSPCA, JSPCA, and ManxSPCA, allowing staff members to discuss how each island operates its animal welfare services and the unique challenges they face. The session was filled with valuable insights, shared ideas, and open discussion about common issues and opportunities for future collaboration.

Steve Byrne, GSPCA Manager and ADCH Regional Co-ordinator, said: “It was incredibly beneficial to connect with our fellow island charities. We all face similar challenges, and sharing ideas and experiences helps us grow stronger together. The first meeting was a great success, and we’re excited to build on this momentum.”

The next meeting is scheduled for next month, again online, with plans to expand participation to include other animal charities across the islands and organisations that could benefit from attending.

Last month Mr Byrne travelled to Jersey to visit the JSPCA, meeting with their new team members to discuss all things animal welfare and charity operations. The visit further strengthened ties between the organisations and laid the groundwork for future collaboration.

All three charities are also hoping to attend the upcoming ADCH in-person meeting in Newcastle, where they will join representatives from over 170 member organisations across the British Isles and Ireland. The Channel Islands have a proud history of hosting ADCH events, including a meeting held in Guernsey in 2017, and look forward to continuing their active involvement.

For more information about the ADCH and its regional groups, visit www.adch.org.uk

To see events, ways to support and animals in need please see our latest blog https://www.gspca.org.gg/blog

Upcoming GSPCA events: