Easington MP Grahame Morris was delighted to attend Battersea’s virtual party conference event to show his support for the animal welfare sector in responding to the ongoing coronavirus outbreak.

Joining Battersea’s Chief Executive Claire Horton CBE, Head of Operations Rob Young and Public Affairs Manager Ben Parker, Mr Morris had the opportunity to watch a virtual tour of the Battersea site, which included some of the resident animals.

Speaking at the event, Claire Horton outlined the work that Battersea has been undertaking to help the wider sector during the crisis, including working with partners to establish an Emergency Fund to provide grant support and supplying pet food to other rescues.

With pets providing such an important source of comfort for many during the initial lockdown, the event was a timely opportunity to consider what the coming months may mean for the welfare of animals and the financial sustainability of the organisations which support them.

Reflecting that it had proved one of the most challenging times in Battersea’s 160-year history, Claire Horton also highlighted Battersea’s new virtual rehoming practices which had allowed staff to find new homes for dozens of dogs and cats in recent months while following social distancing guidelines.

The event also provided an opportunity for parliamentarians to put questions to the panellists to learn more about the impact that COVID-19 has had on Battersea and other organisations in the sector.

Grahame Morris MP said: “It’s critically important that we remember that coronavirus is having such a significant impact on so many different sectors in such different ways. It was welcome to hear that Battersea is working so hard to make sure that they continue to be there for each and every dog and cat that comes through their gates, as well as playing a role in supporting the wider rescue sector.”