RSPCA Hull & East Riding CEO speaks out after 'personal attacks' spread online

HE RESPONDED TO CLAIMS STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS 'DO NOTHING'

- By SOFIE JACKSON

RSPCA Hull & East Riding in Clough Road

THE head of RSPCA Hull & East Riding has responded to recent criticism and "personal attacks".

Branch CEO Fred Owen said RSPCA staff and volunteers “grieve with every life lost” and it “hurts” when they are accused of not caring for animals.

Mr Owen said this sort of criticism does not help save animals, but welcomed “constructive criticism and collaboration”. He did not share the source of the allegations, but the Hull Daily Mail understands it involves a post published on social media.

He suggested a meeting with interested parties on Monday, October 20. It is hoped this will prompt open conversations about “how we can work better together for the cats in the city', he added.

In the full statement published on Facebook, he said: “In recent days, some very strong comments have been shared online about the work of RSPCA Hull & East Riding. While I will always respect the passion that people have for animals, I cannot leave some of these claims unanswered — not for myself, but for my dedicated team.