These sessions will take place at the centre’s onsite cafe and will be available to all members of the public; no booking is required.

The sessions are designed specifically for individuals and families considering adopting a rescue pet and those already in the process of adopting from Raystede. Guests will be welcomed and given the opportunity to be educated on pet adoption. The Q&A sessions will be delivered by friendly staff from the Education, Rehoming and Visitor Information Teams, who will be able to answer any questions on the overall adoption process, the type of animal that would suit an adopter, what steps will need to be taken in order for an adopter to care for their new pet, and much more. Discussion between other potential adopters will be encouraged in order to share any worries or thoughts with like-minded people in a learning environment. Furthermore, staff will be on hand to support guests in filling in their online adoption forms.

Raystede has stated that these drop-in sessions are a great way for their team to engage with the public about the importance of adopting a pet over buying one. Adopting a rescue pet is hugely rewarding, and there are benefits to adopting from a reputable animal welfare centre like Raystede. It’s estimated that around 2.7 million animals enter UK animal shelters yearly (1), with only around 1.7 million being adopted (2). Raystede aims to increase this by educating people about the benefits of adopting a pet, providing them with relevant information and allowing them to discuss any worries or hesitance they may have.

Gemma Price, Head of Education at Raystede, said: “We’re so excited to begin our rehoming sessions. We believe that by supporting the public in their applications and educating potential adopters, we can make a huge difference to our animals’ lives. We have many cats, dogs, rabbits and other animals that need a home and we want to ensure that they’re going to the right home. With these sessions we’re sure we’ll help empower adopters so they feel prepared and confident in welcoming a new pet!”

Raystede Centre for Animal Welfare is an animal rescue centre and sanctuary based in Lewes, East Sussex. They provide rescue, rehabilitation, rehoming and sanctuary to both pets and larger animals like horses, goats and alpacas. Established in 1952 in founder Miss Raymonde-Hawkins’s cottage and back garden, the rescue centre now covers 43 acres and cares for over 2,000 animals yearly. Raystede is open to visitors every day from 10 am to 4 pm.  Entry is free, but ticket booking is essential for general visitors.  With free parking, shops and a cafe, visitors can enjoy a peaceful few hours at the beautiful 43-acre site that many rescue animals call home.

Raystede Centre for Animal Welfare will hold their adoption information drop-in mornings weekly on Tuesdays from 10 am – 12 noon. No booking is required. On every last Tuesday of the month, the sessions will be held at their charity shop in Lewes town centre, also between 10 am and 12 noon.