As we move through another busy and important period for Little Valley, I want to take a moment to reflect on the changes we have seen recently and, most importantly, the direction we are heading in together.
Change is never without its challenges, but it is also often a sign of growth. Over recent months, a number of valued members of our team have taken the brave step of moving on to start their own ventures in dog walking, training, and animal nutrition. We are proud to have played a part in their journeys and wish them every success as they continue working to improve the lives of animals in new ways.
We have also been delighted to support Liam, who is currently spending several weeks in Sri Lanka working alongside another charity to help street dogs. This kind of hands on, international welfare work reflects the compassion and commitment that runs through our team, and we are incredibly proud of him.
As our major building project progresses and more areas of the shelter reopen, we will begin recruiting to strengthen the team once again. These new roles will support the next phase of Little Valley, ensuring we are fully prepared for increased capacity and modern ways of working.
We are also very pleased to welcome Rhiannon Orris as our new Deputy Shelter Manager. Rhiannon brings with her a wealth of experience gained through her work with Blue Cross, Dogs Trust and the RSPCA, and we are excited to see the knowledge, leadership and fresh perspective she will bring to Little Valley.
At board level, we are equally delighted to welcome two new trustees, Joey Kappf and Cate Needler. Both bring fresh ideas, different perspectives and a strong set of professional and transferable skills that will help guide the charity as we plan for the future.
On site, progress on our new facilities is now clearly visible. Foundations are in place, steelwork has been installed, and bricks are being laid, transforming plans on paper into something real and exciting. The past few months of wet weather have not made things easy, but our contractors have pushed on wherever possible to keep the project moving. We cannot wait to welcome supporters, volunteers and visitors into a new and improved Little Valley.
This year is also a very special one for us, as Little Valley celebrates its thirty-fifth anniversary. It is a moment to reflect on everything that has been achieved since we first opened our doors, and to look ahead with confidence to what the next chapter will bring.
I would like to reassure everyone that throughout all this change, the shelter continues to run smoothly. Animals are being cared for, supported and rehomed every day, with particularly encouraging success in finding new homes for our cats. While we currently have fewer animals on site, this quieter period is allowing us to prepare, refresh and modernise how we work, so that when we return to full capacity, our facilities, systems and teams are ready to provide the very best care possible.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support. Everything we do is made possible by our community, and we look forward to sharing the next exciting steps with you.
