Local RSPCA branch reveals plans to create community café for people and animals

Photo: Google, DigitalGlobe

The Rochdale & District RSPCA branch animal centre on Redcross Street

The Rochdale & District branch of the RSPCA is looking at developing a new community hub for those who are lonely.

Staff and volunteers are planning to refurbish what used to be an overnight flat for staff into a community hub with some furry friends for those who are lonely – providing that all-important company for animals and humans alike.

RSPCA trustee and branch secretary, David Canavan said: “The centre supports people as well. Mental health organisations have reported that animals are so therapeutic for people: they provide companionship and a reason for living.”

Taking the mental health benefits into consideration, the Rochdale branch aims to refurbish a section of the Redcross Street Centre and create a community café that will provide companionship to both humans and animals.

David added: “It will be a place for people to bond with their common interest in animals, to allow a space for the disadvantaged, notably the elderly, in our community to meet over a coffee and also engage with our domestic animals. 

“We believe this could make a meaningful contribution in addressing isolation and loneliness whilst building our network of supporters and volunteers”

The refurbishment is expected to cost around £50,000.

The RSPCA Rochdale branch currently has 50 volunteers who make an essential contribution to the work of the charity. The charity hopes to build a bigger network of supporters and volunteers through this new project.

Any local support that could aid in the development of the centre is welcomed.

• www.rspca-rochdale.org.uk