Today, we have published our Annual Review and Report for 2020.

This last year has been an unprecedented challenge for charities across the world and one that won’t ever be forgotten. Our 2020 review explores the impact of coronavirus on Mayhew and it’s service users, as well as the truly incredible achievements that our teams and volunteers have accomplished in spite of these challenges.

We had to find new and safe ways to provide our core services in the community, including delivering care packages to those in need, as well as caring for animals at the Home; all whilst keeping our team safe and continuing to do our best to keep animals and people together. From helping communities in crisis to neutering over 14,000 dogs overseas – read all about how Mayhew has made a positive impact on the lives of both animals and people in 2020.

As well as looking at all of the ways in which Mayhew makes a difference to the lives of both animals and people, our Patron, The Duchess of Sussex, has provided a foreword for our review. 

“Over the last year, each of us have felt the profound effects of the global Covid-19 pandemic. Be it the loss of a loved one, the health challenges far too many faced, or the disproportionate life changes everyone has experienced, it has been an overwhelming process of grief, growth and also of gratitude. I have heard from so many of you about the impact of having a pet with you at home during the isolation of lockdown; you have mentioned the therapeutic effect of having your animal by your side and the solace and comfort you found in their company. This effect is something Mayhew strives to deliver day in and day out to people throughout the UK and beyond.

“I want to thank every animal lover across London, the UK and the world who has supported Mayhew during the past year. Your help has meant that, despite the hardship, Mayhew has been able to continue providing vital support to cats and dogs, and the communities around them. I have been proud to witness Mayhew adapting to the moment – through virtual rehoming, TheraPaws visits over Zoom and delivering care packages to animals and pet owners in need. The organization has rescued and rehabilitated cats and dogs in critical situations and, of course, delivered vital animal health services overseas in countries also gripped by the pandemic.

“When I reflect on 2020, I always come back to the importance of community and connection. We may have been forced apart, but we found new ways to be close and to support each other through this shared crisis. For many of us, this was made all the easier with our pets by our side. Mayhew – and thousands of small, community organizations like them – will continue to listen, adapt their services, and provide the resources that people and pets need to stay together and persevere through hardships. As we collectively build to the future, my sincere hope is that we do so with ongoing support and appreciation for organizations like Mayhew, who continue their vital work in days of crisis and in days of calm. Their commitment to the cause of animal welfare is steadfast and their effect on our community wellbeing is self-evident.”