Purpose of the role
To assist animal welfare staff in maintaining the welfare of dogs in our care through tasks including cleaning kennels, laundry, making up feeds, in-kennel enrichment, and dog walking.
What would you be doing?
- Cleaning kennels
- Preparing meals for the dogs, washing up feeding equipment
- Helping to restock food, blankets, and toys
- Provide exercise and enrichment to alleviate stress
- Reporting any health or behaviour observations
- Helping to walk dogs onsite. Offsite walks after completion of training after 3 months of volunteering
- Undertake basic dog training in accordance with Battersea training methods if required & trained to do so
- Other kennel-related tasks as requested by Battersea staff
What do we need from you?
- Good physical fitness to carry out the tasks with this role e.g., cleaning kennels
- Ability to listen and take instruction, and share observations about the dogs
- Ability to work independently as well as part of a team
- Someone who is comfortable around all sizes of dogs
What will this role offer you?
- Support and training provided throughout
- Training in Battersea’s canine 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
Time commitment
One day a week, on the same day each week, from 8:30am to 4pm. We ask that volunteers stay in this role for at least 6 months. There are openings for volunteering on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Before registering your interest for this role, carefully consider whether you feel able to carry out this role as you will be working with all dogs who come into the Battersea and will therefore encounter dogs who are put to sleep due to behavioural reasons, medical reasons or due to the dog being classed as coming under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 as an illegal breed.
Please also 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 dogs 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 kennels.
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 Monday 10th February 2025 10:00am - 12:00 noon, and our induction day on Monday 17th February 09:00am - 17:00pm at the Battersea 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 [coordinator phone number].
KEY DATES
Deadline to apply: Sunday 26th January
Information and recruitment session: Monday 10th February 2025 10:00am - 12:00 noon
Induction: Monday 17th February 09:00am - 17:00pm