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. This volunteer role provides vital support to the kennel staff and makes a difference to the lives of the thousands of dogs who pass through our doors each year.
What would you be doing?
- Cleaning kennels and assisting with laundry.
- 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 can be carried out after completion of training after 3 months of volunteering.
- Undertake basic dog training in accordance with Battersea training methods if required and trained to do so.
- Other kennel-related tasks as requested by Battersea staff.
What do we need from you?
- Willingness to undertake manual and cleaning duties.
- Confidence around all sizes of dogs.
- Willingness to learn and use Battersea’s methods of working with dogs.
- Ability to volunteer independently as well as part of a team.
- Fit and mobile in order to carry out the tasks within this role e.g., cleaning kennels.
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 (up to £35 per day).
Time commitment
One day a week, on the same day each week, from 8:30am - 4pm. We ask that volunteers stay in this role for at least 6 months.
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 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 Tuesday 7th October 10am - 12pm, and our induction day on Saturday 18th October 9am - 5pm at our centre in Old Windsor, 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 01784 775166
KEY DATES
Deadline to apply: Monday 22nd September
Information and recruitment session: Tuesday 7th October
Induction: Saturday 18th October