The Big Myth: “Local RSPCA Branches Are Paid for by RSPCA HQ”
It’s a common misconception – and an understandable one.
The RSPCA name is recognised nationally, so it’s easy to assume that all branches are centrally funded.
But in truth, local RSPCA branches like ours in Oxfordshire are completely separate charities.
While we share the RSPCA mission and work closely with the national team, we are self-funded and volunteer-run, and rely entirely on local support to continue our work.
What RSPCA HQ Does
The national RSPCA plays a vital role in rescuing animals, running public awareness campaigns, lobbying for stronger animal welfare laws, and investigating cruelty through its inspectorate.
When an animal is rescued, it’s often the local branch – like us – that provides the rehabilitation, vet care, shelter and rehoming.
That’s where the distinction lies: rescue is national – recovery is local.
What RSPCA Oxfordshire Does
We’re here on the ground in your community, providing care for animals that need urgent help. Whether it’s a neglected pet, a stray, or an unwanted litter, our local volunteers step in to provide:
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Emergency and ongoing vet treatment
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Safe shelter and rehabilitation
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Behavioural support and socialisation
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Rehoming to loving, local families
But all of that takes money and resources, and it’s not funded by RSPCA HQ.
How We’re Funded: The Local Picture
RSPCA Oxfordshire’s trustee team is run entirely by volunteers. We have no paid trustees, just one employee to manage the huge number of cats, dogs and rabbits in need, and no government or council funding.
Every animal we help is supported through the generosity of our local community.
Our income comes from:
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Donations from local individuals and families
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Legacies and gifts in wills
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Community fundraising events
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Rehoming fees and microchipping services
It’s local people – like you – who make our work possible.
2023 at a Glance
| Financial Snapshot | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Income | £92,159 (all from local support) |
| Total Expenditure | £130,400 (used for animal care, veterinary costs, and rehoming) |
| Paid Trustees? | No – all trustees are unpaid volunteers |
| Paid Staff Over £60k? | None |
Unlike many charities, we don’t rely on a few big donors or corporate backers.
Instead, we’re supported by hundreds of small, regular contributions from people who care about animals here in Oxfordshire.
So Why Does This Matter?
The myth that “HQ covers it” can stop people from donating locally, when, in fact, we depend entirely on local giving to survive.
Every time someone donates directly to RSPCA Oxfordshire, that money stays here, helping animals from Bicester to Banbury, Didcot to Witney.
It pays for food, medicine, vet bills, and shelter. Without it, we simply couldn’t do what we do.
In Summary
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RSPCA Oxfordshire is an independent, volunteer-led charity
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We are not funded by RSPCA HQ – we raise our own income locally
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Every donation made here helps animals in Oxfordshire directly
If you want to help animals in your community, the most powerful thing you can do is support your local RSPCA branch.
Because your kindness stays local and changes lives close to home.
