By Isle of Wight Observer
RSPCA IW has installed a new charging point for its electric van after receiving a £500 donation from Southern Vectis.
The funding was awarded through the bus company’s community fund and will support the charity’s move towards more sustainable transport while helping it continue caring for vulnerable animals across the Island.
The electric van is used to collect animals, take them to veterinary appointments and transport food and materials. RSPCA IW said having its own charging point will improve day-to-day efficiency while reducing environmental impact.
Steve Backhouse from RSPCA IW said the charity was grateful for the support. He explained that while switching to electric vehicles helps reduce emissions, it also brings additional costs, and the donation had made a real difference by helping fund the installation of the charging facility.
The charity works throughout the year and continues to see high demand for its services. It is currently caring for 20 rabbits, 20 cats and eight dogs. Some of the animals were mistreated or abandoned, while others were handed over after their owners were no longer able to care for them. The charity hopes to find all of them suitable new homes.
Southern Vectis operations manager Simon Moye said RSPCA IW plays a crucial role on the Island and is exactly the type of organisation the community fund is designed to support. He added that the donation was particularly fitting as Southern Vectis is installing charging points of its own as part of the move towards a new fleet of electric buses.
RSPCA IW needs to raise £750,000 each year to fund its work, with all income coming from donations. Further details can be found at iw.observer/rspca-iw.
