Animal charity seeks good listeners

The Blue Cross, Britain’s pet charity, is looking for animal loving volunteers to sign up as befrienders for its Pet Bereavement Support Service.

The Pet Bereavement Support Service (PBSS) is dedicated to offering support and understanding to bereaved pet owners of all ages. Its confidential helpline operates through a network of trained telephone and email befrienders.

Grieving the loss of a pet, whether through death or separation, can be a lonely and difficult experience. A pet owner’s life may suddenly feel very empty and feelings of despair and loneliness are not uncommon.

Margot Clarke, PBSS help-line coordinator, said: “Many people feel unable to talk to friends and family about how they are feeling.  The PBSS is a lifeline to hundreds of people across the country who are grieving the loss of their animal companion. We would not be able to run this service without the dedication and commitment from our very special volunteer befrienders.

“We would be delighted to hear from good listeners who understand what it’s like to lose a pet. Full training is offered to support volunteers in their role. We are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who is available during the day to help others get over their loss.”

Anyone that would like to volunteer as a befriender should contact 01993 825539 or email pbss@bluecross.org.uk

Notes to editors
The Blue Cross is Britain's pet charity, providing practical support, information and advice for pet and horse owners. Through its network of animal adoption centres it rehomes thousands of animals each year. Its hospitals provide veterinary care for the pets of people who cannot afford private vets' fees.

The PBSS is run by The Blue Cross in conjunction with The Society for Companion Animal Studies (SCAS). It is a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy and adopts its code of ethics. The service is also a member of the Telephone Helpline Association, and is supported by the British Small Animal Veterinary Association.

Media contact: Sam Cordwell 
020 7932 4065 (direct)
07860 519716