We’re proud to announce Kendal College Animal Rescue & Rehabilitation Centre as the winner of Animal Rescue Centre of the Year at the My Local Awards 2026 Cumbria.
This award celebrates organisations that provide exceptional care, compassion and commitment to animals in need—and this centre embodies all of that and more. Combining specialist wildlife rehabilitation with education and community engagement, it plays a vital role in protecting Cumbria’s natural world while inspiring the next generation of animal care professionals.
Based within Kendal College’s Animal Care Department, the centre offers something truly unique: a place where rescue meets education, and where every animal cared for also contributes to a wider mission of learning, understanding and conservation.
A unique approach to wildlife rescue and education
Since opening in November 2014, Kendal College Animal Rescue Centre has grown into a respected and essential part of the local animal welfare network. Designed to support both wildlife rescue efforts and animal care education, the facility bridges the gap between hands-on treatment and academic learning.
Animals arriving at the centre receive triage, ethical treatment and rehabilitation, all under the supervision of experienced veterinary professionals. But what makes this centre stand out is the environment in which that care takes place. Students studying animal care are actively involved in daily routines—supporting feeding, cleaning, monitoring and overall wellbeing—while learning the importance of ethical decision-making in wildlife care.
This combination of real-world experience and professional oversight creates a powerful learning environment, ensuring that every animal helped also contributes to developing future experts in the field.
Delivering critical care when it matters most
The centre works with a wide range of wildlife casualties, often acting as the first point of contact for injured or vulnerable animals brought in by members of the public, veterinary surgeries and welfare organisations.
From small mammals and birds to more complex cases involving species such as otters and seal pups, the team provides essential early intervention. In many cases, animals receive stabilisation and short-term care before being transferred to specialist facilities for longer rehabilitation and eventual release.
Their work with hedgehogs, swifts, otters and marine wildlife has been particularly impactful, contributing to both local and national conservation efforts. Each case requires not only technical expertise, but also patience, empathy and a deep understanding of animal welfare.
One recent story captures this perfectly. Two hedgehogs were admitted as tiny hoglets suffering from flystrike, a serious condition that can quickly become fatal. Through intensive care and close monitoring, the team supported their recovery over several weeks. They then remained at the centre throughout the winter months until they were strong enough to be safely released back into the wild. It’s a reminder that rescue doesn’t end at treatment—it continues until the animal is truly ready to thrive again.
Overcoming challenges with resilience
Like many organisations dedicated to animal care, the centre has faced its share of challenges. One of the most significant came in October 2024, when an electrical fire temporarily forced the facility to close its doors to new admissions.
While thankfully no animals or people were harmed, the disruption required quick thinking and adaptability. The team worked together to relocate existing patients, including hedgehogs, to other parts of the college campus, ensuring continuity of care during a difficult period.
Moments like this highlight the resilience and dedication of everyone involved. Even in the face of unexpected setbacks, the focus remained firmly on the welfare of the animals.
Milestones that reflect passion and progress
Over the years, Kendal College Animal Rescue Centre has achieved several important milestones that reflect both its impact and its ambition.
Achieving Gold Status for Hedgehog Friendly Campus is a standout accomplishment, recognising the centre’s commitment to conservation and habitat support. Alongside this, the development of Foundation Degrees in Wildlife Conservation and Rehabilitation, and Marine Biology and Rehabilitation, in partnership with the University of Cumbria, demonstrates its growing influence in education.
These achievements show that the centre isn’t just responding to immediate needs—it’s actively shaping the future of wildlife care and conservation through knowledge and training.
A true community effort
One of the most powerful aspects of the centre’s work is the role played by the local community. From members of the public who bring in injured animals, to those who donate supplies like newspapers and equipment, the centre operates as a collaborative effort.
Students also play a key role, contributing to daily care routines while gaining invaluable experience. Together, this network of support creates something special—a shared commitment to protecting and caring for wildlife.
The centre also extends its impact beyond its walls by working with schools, conservation groups and community organisations, delivering talks and workshops that raise awareness about wildlife care and the challenges facing different species.
It’s a reminder that meaningful change often starts at a local level, with people coming together to make a difference in their own communities.
Recognition that truly matters
Winning Animal Rescue Centre of the Year came as a genuine surprise to the team, especially given the number of incredible organisations nominated. But it’s a recognition that means a great deal.
Wildlife rehabilitation can be emotionally and physically demanding work. Difficult decisions are sometimes unavoidable, always guided by what is best for the animal. This award serves as a powerful reminder that those efforts are seen, valued and appreciated.
It also reflects the collective effort behind the scenes—from staff and students to volunteers and supporters—who all play a part in making the centre what it is today.
Looking ahead
The future is full of exciting developments for Kendal College Animal Rescue Centre. Recently, the team installed two large walk-in enclosures designed for seal pups, expanding their ability to provide short-term care for marine wildlife.
These new facilities will help address a gap in local provision, ensuring that animals have access to safe, suitable accommodation when they need it most.
As the centre continues to grow, its focus remains clear: to provide exceptional care for wildlife, educate future generations and strengthen the connection between people and the natural world.
A heartfelt thank you
The team at Kendal College Animal Rescue Centre would like to extend their sincere thanks to everyone who has supported them—whether by voting, donating, volunteering or simply caring enough to bring an animal in need to their door.
As they put it so simply:
“Thank you for sharing your time, your knowledge, your passion and your understanding.”
Congratulations to Kendal College Animal Rescue & Rehabilitation Centre on this well-deserved recognition—an organisation that truly represents the very best of care, compassion and community in Cumbria.
