Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs.
Cats are at the centre of everything we do and our objectives are: homing, neutering and educating people about cats and their care.
We help thousands of cats across the UK each year thanks to our network of dedicated volunteers, staff and supporters.
Our vision for volunteering
Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.
The difference you will make to cats and people
This role concentrates on building relationships with members of the public, encouraging them to consider alternatives to placing their cats up for adoption. You will focus on providing information and support to existing owners who may be experiencing issues with their cat. You’ll also help potential new cat owners who are seeking advice before getting a cat.
You’ll build relationships within the community to engage with cat owners and potential cat owners, for example with vets, other charities, Citizen’s Advice, local authorities etc.
You can expect us to
- Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
- Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
- Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
- Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities
A bit more information about this role and the team
In this role, you'll provide advice and support to members of the public who need help with their cats, helping owners find solutions that keep cats happy and in their homes whenever possible.
We're looking for someone who:
- Is confident communicating with members of the public by phone, email and occasional home visits.
- Can work independently and use their own initiative.
- Has a reasonable practical knowledge of cat behaviour and health, or is happy to research issues and make use of the guidance and resources provided by Cats Protection.
- Is empathetic, organised and enjoys problem-solving.
This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of cats and the people who care for them, while being part of a friendly and supportive volunteer team.
What we need from you
You’ll be:
- Providing information and support to cat owners who may be considering rehoming their cat due to a change in circumstances or cat behaviour issue
- Offer a signposting service, using a comprehensive resource library, information, guidance and support
- Communicating with members of the public to offer support regarding cat ownership by using a variety of mediums eg email, video calls, social media
- Effectively use in-house systems to record outcomes and provide feedback
- Linking with community groups, partners and charities to share key messages about cat ownership
- Linking with other Cats Protection volunteers and employees to share key messages and experiences
- Attending community events (in-person and virtual) to promote key messages
Time expectation
Our supporting cat owners volunteers usually spend four to 10 hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.
You may be just the volunteer we’ve been looking for!
We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.
