Scottish SPCA to remove dedicated support from Hebrides, Shetland and Orkney in bid to reduce costs

The Scottish SPCA is set to make “operational changes”, including the removal of dedicated resources in the islands, in an effort to “reduce costs”.

Last December, the animal welfare charity opened a voluntary severance scheme for staff due to “a challenging fundraising climate”.

The charity, which does not receive Scottish Government funding and relies on donations, said that following a review, it will make changes to reduce costs.

As a result, the Scottish SPCA will not have resources on Shetland, Orkney, or the Hebrides. It has been confirmed that any cases on the islands requiring support will be handled by the North Inspectorate Team.

A SSPCA spokesperson said: “We will be making some operational changes to reduce costs on a recurring basis and ensure we are using our time and expertise as effectively as possible.

“As we reshape how we operate, that does mean we will no longer have dedicated resource based on the islands. However, that does not mean we are completely stepping away from island communities or the animals there.

“We will continue to respond to concerns and support animal welfare on the islands through close partnership working with veterinary professionals, statutory agencies and other local partners – as we do now.

“The small number of cases we receive from island areas will still be assessed and investigated where required with support from our North Inspectorate team.

“Our mission has not changed and neither has our determination to deliver it. We remain committed to protecting pets, wildlife and farm animals across Scotland from suffering.”