Naturewatch Foundation has been announced as a contender for the prestigious Charity Awards 2024, in the Animal and Environment category. The Charity Awards is the oldest and most esteemed awards program in the charity sector.
The foundation’s entry, the Force Control Room Wildlife Crime animated training package, aims to address the issue of ineffective response to public reports of wildlife crimes, such as badger baiting. Since its launch in August 2023, the training has reached over 5,000 police staff members across 93% of police forces in England and Wales. Feedback from rural crime team police officers has shown improvement in the handling of wildlife crime reports, with the right officers now being aware of the crimes reported and able to make informed decisions on response actions and investigations.
Chief Inspector Lacks-Kelly, Head of the National Wildlife Crime Unit (NWCU), praised Naturewatch Foundation for their ongoing support and accountability, stating that they are “unsung heroes” in the fight against wildlife crime. He also acknowledged their critical role in delivering a strategic policing priority and thanked the foundation and its members for their support and expertise.
The Charity Awards, which announced its shortlist on May 17, has selected 30 charities for their best practices in leadership and management. The winners will be announced at a black-tie dinner on July 9, hosted by broadcaster and commentator Baroness Ayesha Hazarika. The evening will also include celebrities, representatives of the shortlisted charities, and leaders from well-known and beloved charities.
Matthew Nolan, Chief Executive of Civil Society Media, congratulated Naturewatch Foundation on making the shortlist and highlighted the professionalism of the entries this year. He believes that charities are more aware than ever of the importance of good governance, strong leadership, and effective management.
Peter Hugh Smith, Chief Executive at CCLA, Overall Partner of the Charity Awards, spoke about the power of compassion, determination, and resilience in the charity sector. He expressed his honor in continuing their role as the Charity Awards’ Overall Partner and championing the incredible efforts of charities across the UK.
Sarah Carr, Chief Executive of Naturewatch Foundation, thanked the foundation’s supporters and partners for enabling their work in promoting animal welfare. She also expressed her gratitude to the judges for shortlisting them and stated that it inspires the foundation to continue their efforts in creating a kinder world for all living things.
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