In 2024, the RSPCA is celebrating 200 years. In that time we've driven much-needed change for the animals who share our world. But there's still so much to do. Will you join us to create a kinder future for animals everywhere?

It all began in a coffee shop

Nearly 200 years ago a small group of people, including William Wilberforce (perhaps better known for the movement that abolished slavery), met in a London coffee shop and shared their determination to change animals' lives. They created a society that became the RSPCA, sparking a movement that spread around the world.

Changing animals' lives has always been at the heart of the RSPCA. We put an end to bear baiting in 1835 and drove the Protection of Animals Act in 1911. We spoke up for wildlife with The Hunting Act in 2005 and helped transform lives with The Animal Welfare Act in 2006.

Together with our supporters, we have rescued millions of animals from harm and shown them the compassion they deserve. We've campaigned on their behalf and become the world-leading, science-backed voice for animals. We’re now the world’s largest and oldest animal welfare charity.

We believe that animal welfare is everyone's welfare

For nearly 200 years we've been changing minds, laws, industries and lives to create a better world for animals and people alike. But there's still so much more to do. Animals are facing bigger challenges than ever – through climate change, factory farming, war, and the cost-of-living crisis. As the world changes, we must keep changing too. Find out why.

So, on our 200th anniversary on 16 June 2024 we won't just celebrate our rich history. We want to inspire millions more people to help us keep changing animals' lives now and into the future.

Join in the celebrations

We’ll be planning events in Oxfordshire that everyone can join in on. 50 Miles for Animals is just one of them! Will you pledge run, walk, skip, bike, scoot or swim your way to 50 miles in June next year? Watch this space for more news on how you can join us to make better lives for animals.

In the meantime, keep sharing our messages on social media and thank you for your support.