Irwin Mitchell Team Provide Some Animal Magic for Thornberry Sanctuary

A 12 strong team of local lawyers swapped laptops for leads and documents for donations in October, to support and (literally) ‘spruce up’ a much-loved South Yorkshire animal sanctuary.

The animal lovers from the Irwin Mitchell Serious Injury team in Sheffield, used time the firm gives colleagues to support charity, to help Thornberry Animal Sanctuary with everything from dog walking and sorting clothing and toy donations, to putting up the Christmas tree.

Based in North Anston, Thornberry Animal Sanctuary was founded in 1988 and has rescued thousands of animals that through no fault of their own, are in need of a new home.

The charity is still run and supported by volunteers, engaged in everything from animal care roles such as dog walking, to fundraising and in this case, the giving of time to assist with sorting of donations for the on-site shop ahead of the busy festive period.

In addition to hands-on support in volunteering to assist with dog walking and donations received by the charity, the Irwin Mitchell team also used their skills to help the charity offer a free will writing service for their supporters who want to ensure the charity has a lasting legacy.

In line with Irwin Mitchell’s responsible business policy, all colleagues have two days they can take to carry out volunteering work in the local community.

Expert Opinion

“The team are all big fans of the work Thornberry does for the animals in its care and as part of the wider community.

“We know the upkeep of such a site is not easy, so using the days we have as part of Irwin Mitchell’s commitment to responsible business seemed a great way to be able to do something practical to help such a great charity.

“We all had a great time walking the dogs, sorting through the donations and helping with the Christmas tree gave a real festive feel to the work. We absolutely loved helping them and giving something back to the charity in a way that allowed them more time to focus on their key role of animal welfare.” Liz Whitehead - Team Leader & Senior Associate

Thornberry Animal Sanctuary is a well-established and well supported animal rescue centre based in South Yorkshire. The sanctuary cares for dogs, cats, horses, rabbits and other animals.

The sanctuary receives no government funding and survives on supporter’s donations, legacies, charitable grants and the hard work of volunteers who alongside the staff help to keep the sanctuary and its onsite shops running.