Frequently Asked Questions

1. How is the RSPCA funded?
We receive little public funding. As a voluntary organisation, we could not exist without our valued supporters.

2. What are your administration charges?
81 per cent of the our expenditure goes directly to animal welfare activities. Of the remainder, 18 per cent is spent on fundraising and administration. One per cent is spent on governance.

3. What distinguishes the RSPCA from other animal welfare charities?
Established in 1824, the RSPCA was the first animal welfare organisation to and leads the way in animal welfare law, polices and advice. We are the largest animal welfare organisation in the UK and Wales and the only organisation prosecuting against animal cruelty on a large scale.


4. Animal welfare issues and cruelty to animals seem too large a problem to resolve. How can the RSPCA make a difference?
We investigate more than 160,000 animal cruelty complaints every year. We make a difference every day through direct complaint investigation, advising owners about animal welfare and where necessary, taking animals away and prosecuting the owner.  The prosecution work we do sets the minimum standard of what is acceptable animal welfare and husbandry in the UK and it also, once reported on, acts as a deterrent.

That, together with the proactive work we do in terms of education in schools and working with problem communities is aimed at informing all members of the public what their responsibilities towards their animals are and holding them accountable if they fail.

Just imagine if we weren’t there to educate or to prosecute - the situation for animals would be a lot worse.  The strength of the RSPCA is in being able to negotiate a better position for animals.

5. How can I be sure that money is going to the animals that really need it?
The RSPCA is a well established charity with robust financial controls to ensure all donations and grants are well managed and protected. Our major donors are supported by a dedicated account manager who will provide feedback and financial updates regarding your donation.

6. Can I visit a project I support and see the difference I have made?
We want to show you the difference your support can make; visiting our animal centres, wildlife centres and hospitals can be a great way to see our work first hand. Where possible, we will arrange for you to meet our front line staff and see the work for yourself.

7. How can you ensure that my personal information will be protected?
We are committed to protecting your privacy. We take appropriate measures to ensure that the information disclosed to us is kept secure, accurate and up to date and kept only for so long as is necessary for the purposes for which it is used. For further information read our privacy policy.

8. What is Gift Aid?
Gift Aid is a scheme introduced by the Inland Revenue and is one of the simplest and most effective ways of giving to charity. It allows us to reclaim from your donation the basic rate tax you pay as a UK taxpayer. Currently that's an additional 25p for every £1, so a donation of £100,000 could mean we receive £125,000 at no extra cost to you.

If you are a higher rate taxpayer you are also able to reclaim the additional difference yourself through your tax return, or you may choose to donate it back to the RSPCA by completing the information on your form. All you have to do is remember to include details of your charitable gifts on your tax form.

For further information contact Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs directly by calling their Gift Aid helpline on 0151 472 6038 or visiting www.hmrc.gov.uk.

 

9. Where can I find further information about giving to charity
Charities Aid Foundation: www.cafonline.org
Inland Revenue: www.hmrc.gov.uk/charities
Legacy Promotion Campaign: www.rememberacharity.org.uk