Upset as Truro and District Cats Protection Centre to close

The Truro and the District Branch of Cats Protection has announced this week that it will be closing its doors. A date for its closure has not been given yet, although it is expected to be imminent.

Volunteers at the branch are said to be “very sad and upset” that the branch is closing, which is reported as a decision made by the national management of the charity.

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In a newsletter sent to volunteers and friends of the branch, it explains that Cats Protection management has been looking to change branches by exploring other models such as a Cat Action Team (CAT) working in the west of Cornwall, focussing on Trap Neuter Return (TRN), which the management said might be better to support the local area.

It also wants to look at having “closer relations between branches and centres, and a one charity view.”

Under this new model, fosterers would support the Cornwall Adoption Centre, but not be part of a branch.

However, it goes on to add: “Sadly, last week the coordinator received written notice that the Truro & District Branch was to be closed down.

“We were informed, however, that some volunteering opportunities would still be there.”

In an emotional statement in the newsletter, the team at the branch have spoken of their sadness at the closure news. They wrote: “There were quite a few tears shed at the fayre and disbelief at what was happening.

“Unfortunately, we were unable to explain as it was not our decision. Cats Protection is still making decisions about the new model, we know other volunteering posts will be available.

“Thank you everyone for all your support, especially all of you who have volunteered to do admin, driving, finance, fostering, foster support, fundraising, media, newsletter, secretarial or have been loyal members. Every one of you in fact.”

The newsletter also recognises some of the achievements of volunteers over the years.

This has included the Truro and District Branch purchasing the land and bungalow, and having plans drawn up, to build the Adoption Centre at Point, Carnon Downs.

The branch adds: “Truro and District Branch has fostered, cared for and homes so many cats and kittens over the years.

“One of the years before lockdown we homed 78 cats and kittens and were asked by Cats Protection what we did to be so successful! Other branches wanted to know our secret – no secret just dedicated fosterers, volunteers, and vets plus good organisation on our part.

“During a five-year period, we have neutered 3,145 cats and kittens, neutered 540 feral cats and kittens which were then returned to their home on the farm of similar environments.

“We have raised £11,802.27 just from our Sprint and Winter Fayres, and now we can add another £900.”

“It has been an honour and pleasure to have met and worked alongside so many of you.”

The Packet has contacted Cats Protection for a statement.