Anchor, England’s largest not-for-profit provider of housing and care for people in later life, has retained its platinum status in the RSPCA’s annual PawPrints Awards for the third year running, in recognition of its outstanding commitment to animal welfare.
In 2023, Anchor became the first national housing provider to receive platinum status, having secured a gold award in housing, for the previous five years. The RSPCA PawPrints Awards, the only scheme of its kind, celebrates local authorities and public bodies for their pioneering work in animal welfare across England and Wales.
Anchor encourages residents who want a pet, or already own pets, to bring them to their properties. A compassionate pet policy was created in partnership with Anchor residents to ensure their accommodation is suitable and the needs of domestic pets living at Anchor properties are being met.
Animals are a celebrated part of life at Anchor and each year this is demonstrated through the ‘Paw’some pet award. Part of the Loving Later Life Awards, the title of ‘Paw’some pet is awarded to the companions of Anchor residents that make a difference in everyday life.
This pet-friendly approach is why Anchor remains the only national housing provider to hold platinum status in the RSPCA’s PawPrints Awards.
Anchor’s Interim Chief Executive Amanda Holgate said: “I’m delighted that Anchor has achieved platinum status in the RSPCA PawPrints Awards for the third year running. This is a great honour and recognises our ongoing commitment and dedication to supporting responsible pet ownership at our locations.
“We recognise the positive benefits owning a pet can have on resident wellbeing. Pets can provide companionship, comfort and love, which is why our pet friendly policy is so important.”
Lee Gingell, Public Affairs Manager at the RSPCA, said: “We are delighted to recognise Anchor with the RSPCA’s Housing (Platinum) PawPrints Award. Their commitment to animal welfare is truly commendable, and we hope their example inspires others to strive for excellence.”
