Purpose of the role
To assist animal welfare staff in maintaining the welfare of cats in our care through tasks including cleaning pens, laundry, making up feeds and in-pen enrichment. This volunteer role provides vital support to the cattery staff and makes a difference to the lives of the thousands of cats who pass through our doors each year.
What would you be doing?
- Cleaning of pens, communal areas and items within the pens (litter trays, food bowls, toys, etc.).
- Assisting with laundry and feeding.
- Spending time with cats in their pens, using enrichment techniques to stimulate mental activity and playing constructive games.
- Basic grooming.
- Reporting any health or behaviour observations.
What do we need from you?
- Willingness to undertake manual and cleaning duties.
- Openness to deal with cats of all ages and temperaments.
- Willingness to learn and use Battersea’s methods of working with cats.
- Ability to volunteer independently, on a one-to-one basis with the cats.
- Fit and mobile in order to kneel, crouch or sit on the floor to interact with cats and undertake cleaning duties in confined pens.
What will this role offer you?
- Support and training provided throughout.
- Training in Battersea’s feline welfare and training methods.
- The opportunity to gain experience within an animal charity.
- Learn great new skills to add to your CV.
- We reimburse any out-of-pocket travel expenses you may incur whilst volunteering with us (up to £35 per day).
Time commitment
One day a week, on the same day each week, either 8am-12pm or 1pm-5pm. We ask that volunteers stay in this role for at least 6 months.
Before registering your interest for this role, please be aware that this is a physically demanding role that involves a considerable amount of cleaning. It is also rewarding work and can make a huge difference to the cats in our care.
How do I apply?
If you are interested in this role, please complete our online application form.
Those shortlisted to move to the next stage will be invited to an online Information and Group Recruitment Session, where there will be the opportunity to learn more about the role and Battersea, and to hear from staff members who work in the Cattery.
PLEASE NOTE - you must be over 18 to apply for this role. You also must be available to attend our online information and group recruitment session on Tuesday 17th February at 11am, and our induction day on Tuesday 24th February at our London site, if you wish to progress with your application. Unfortunately, we do not have capacity to change these recruitment sessions.
Diversity and inclusion
At Battersea, we are committed to developing and supporting a diverse workplace and inclusive culture in all aspects of our organisation. We aim to ensure that this pledge, reinforced by our values, is embedded in our day-to-day working practices and our work together.
By hearing from and valuing different experiences, perspectives, and contributions, we know we can provide the best expert care for every dog and cat who needs us. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly those from diverse ethnic communities and people with disabilities, who we know are currently underrepresented in our workplace.
We will ask about any adjustments you may need at application and/or interview stage, and if you are offered a role with us, we’ll talk to you about any workplace adjustments you may need to help you perform at your best. If you would like to talk more about this, please contact v.coordinator@battersea.org.uk or call us on 020 7501 4884.
KEY DATES
Deadline to apply: Friday 6th February 2026 at 11:59pm.
Information and recruitment session: Tuesday 17th February 2026, 11am to1pm (online).
Induction: Tuesday 24th February, 9am to 5pm (in person).