On 12th November, the Business team swapped their laptops for wellies as together they spent their community volunteering day at Oak Tree Animal Rescue, putting in over 35 hours together to celebrate the organisation’s 35th anniversary. The visit formed as part of People First’s commitment to giving back to local organisations across the North of England, recognising from People First's own background, that people giving their time truly makes a difference for communities, individuals and charities.
Oak Tree Animal Rescue, based in Wetheral, supports a wide range of animals, providing safe spaces for dogs, cats and equine during their time in need. They also work tirelessly to prevent animal welfare issues arising, especially when relationships between animal and owner breaks down. Oak Tree are going through some exciting new developments, moving their equine shop, charity shop and creating community spaces. As a result, the Business team were able to provide a helping hand. From saddles and bridles to rugs, dog beds and cat trees that have all been generously donated by members of the public, they all needed to be organised and transported to their new homes.
Olivia, one of our team members, was a whiz with the horse equipment. As a horse owner herself, she kept everyone on track, making sure the equipment was sorted and moved into boxes without a hitch.
Throughout the day, the team worked across several storage areas and barns, carefully moving, sorting and reorganising equipment. Items were checked for condition, grouped into categories, and set aside for reuse, repair, recycling or redistribution. The team also helped to reorganise donated stock so that Oak Tree staff can access and use it more easily in the months ahead.
Besides the practical tasks, the day also gave the team a peek into what life is like at the centre. They got to meet some of Oak Tree’s long-term residents, like the always-curious goats and several of the horses they’re helping. But the best part for many was meeting a group of young kittens being cared for by the centre.
Reflecting on the day, Lydia Hurley from People First said:
"It was such a pleasure to spend the day helping Oak Tree. We all left with a deeper appreciation for the hard work that goes into looking after the animals, and it was wonderful to know we could ease some of the team’s load. Seeing the animals, especially the goats and kittens, was a lovely treat. It was a wonderful way to celebrate People First’s 35 years and give back to our community."
The day ended with a real sense of achievement and appreciation for the work that the Oak Tree Animal Rescue team do each and every day. The volunteering day follows a series of activities planned to celebrate People First’s anniversary, all designed to highlight the organisation’s ongoing commitment to community involvement.