Rochdale RSPCA appeals for community support to continue vital animal rescue work

Thursday, 22 January 2026 20:34

By David Murphy

Rochdale’s RSPCA branch is calling on local residents to support its ongoing efforts to protect, rescue and rehome animals across the borough.

The charity, which has served the community since 1890, recently marked a milestone after moving to its purpose-built Hollingworth Lake Animal Centre in 2023. Since relocating, staff and volunteers have helped more than 700 animals, including over 500 cats. The centre has also supported the rescue of horses and taken in injured wildlife for assessment and care.

Chairman of Trustees David Canavan praised the commitment of the branch's team and urged the public to help meet rising costs. “This branch does a phenomenal job for the people and animals of Rochdale,” he said. “We’ve always enjoyed very good levels of support, and we are really grateful. However, the cost of maintaining current service levels is going up and we’d really appreciate some help.”

Supporters can contribute by donating money, visiting any of the RSPCA’s shops in Rochdale, Littleborough, Heywood, Middleton or Whitworth, or by donating items for resale. The gift shop at the Hollingworth Lake centre and its café also provide opportunities to help raise funds. The Lake Room, located at the centre, is available for community hire.

Mr Canavan encouraged people to consider becoming a Friend of the centre. “You’ll enjoy benefits while also supporting a good cause,” he said.

The branch regularly partners with other local organisations, including Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH), who helped secure the move to Hollingworth Lake by purchasing the former Redcross Street site for housing. The old site has now been cleared to make way for new affordable homes.

RBH chief executive Amanda Newton said the RSPCA team “can always be relied on to step in, often at short notice”, adding: “Animal welfare is everyone’s business. They give us so much and deserve so much back in return. We will be forever grateful for our friends at the RSPCA in Rochdale.”

The RSPCA Rochdale and District Branch is a registered charity, number 232257. To find out how to help or to book The Lake Room, residents can call 01706 861897 or email rec.rspcarochdale@btconnect.com.