After more than 150 years of combined history rescuing and caring for animals, RSPCA Oxfordshire and RSPCA Reading with Oxon Border Branch are officially merging – and we couldn’t be more excited about what comes next.
A Little Bit of History
We’ve been doing this for a long time. RSPCA Oxfordshire was founded in 1875 – and we’re incredibly proud to say that Lewis Carroll, the author of Alice in Wonderland and a lifelong Oxfordshire resident, was one of our earliest and most dedicated supporters, regularly donating to the cause.
The branch was set up with a very clear mission: to work hand in hand with National RSPCA Inspectors. They rescue – we rehabilitate and rehome. It’s a partnership that has stood the test of time, and last year alone we rehomed 154 animals who had often known real hardship before finding their way to us.
The Reading with Oxon Border Branch has its own impressive history too, with roots stretching back to 1864, and has been entirely run by devoted volunteers ever since. Together, we have a combined legacy that is something to be genuinely proud of.
A New Chapter
This March, the two branches are officially coming together to form RSPCA Oxfordshire & Reading – one unified organisation with a shared history of putting animals first.
Two teams, one mission – and the same values, the same passion and the same unwavering commitment to animals in need. Together, we will do even more.
“We are really looking forward to working together as a great big team. We share the same heart, the same values, and the same drive to help animals who need us most.” – Sharon Chrisp, Operations Manager, RSPCA Oxfordshire
What We Do – and Why It Matters
At the heart of everything we do is a commitment to animals who have experienced cruelty and neglect. These are animals who often arrive frightened, unwell and in desperate need of care – and we are here to give them a second chance.
Working alongside National RSPCA Inspectors, we take in animals rescued from some really difficult situations – dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs and more – and we give them the time, the care and the love they need to recover and find their forever home. At any one time, our Oxfordshire branch is caring for between 40 and 50 animals. Right now, the Reading branch has three animals in their care – and with a combined team, we can grow that capacity and help many more animals in the Reading area.
It’s worth knowing that while we work closely with the national RSPCA, local branches like ours are independently funded. We receive no money from RSPCA headquarters – everything we do is funded by donations, legacies, and fundraising from people in our local community. When you support RSPCA Oxfordshire & Reading, every penny stays local and goes directly to the animals in our care.
What the Merger Means in Practice
This isn’t just an administrative change – it’s a real opportunity to do more good.
A stronger presence in Reading. We want to grow the Reading side of the branch, take in more animals and make a bigger difference locally.
Supporting the brilliant volunteers already there. The Reading branch has long-standing volunteers who we absolutely want to keep, celebrate and support.
More people joining the cause. We’re keen to bring in new fosterers, home visitors and volunteers in and around Reading – there are animals who need you.
Better care for animals who have suffered most. With a bigger team, more resource and a wider network, we’ll be better placed to care for animals who have come from the most difficult of circumstances.
Our Team – Ready for What’s Next
With the Reading trustees joining us, we now have 13 trustees guiding the organisation – alongside our 2 full-time members of staff who bring dedication, warmth and expertise to everything they do. It’s a strong, committed team and we’re ready for everything this next chapter brings.
Get Involved
The newly merged branch is always looking for new volunteers, fosterers and fundraisers – and we especially want to hear from people in the Reading area. Whether you have a few hours a month, a spare room for a foster animal, or are ready to welcome a forever family member, there is a role for you.
You can also make a donation or browse the animals currently available for adoption.
To keep up with the latest news, animal updates and ways to get involved, follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
Together, we’re creating a safer, kinder future for animals across our community. Welcome to the next chapter.
