AN animal rescue centre has announced they will be opening a cat café in Hoylake to try and educate people "on the constant problem of breeding and selling cats".
Jackson's Animal Rescue was set up in 2015 by Steph Oliver, who lives at the Jackson's Place site in Mold, North Wales.
They also have a Wildlife Centre in Larton Liveries, Frankby, which helps sick and injured wildlife, predominantly hedgehogs, but they also help other species such as wild rabbits.
Speaking about the increase in need for services, Steph, said she has "never seen numbers like it".
The 35-year-old said: "It is the busiest we've ever been.
"Our waiting list is a year long, when we think it can't get worse and we can't get any more calls that day, we do.
"Animal rescues are in crisis at the moment."
In the Summer, Steph and her team ran "cat-cuddling" sessions which Steph says were a "huge success"
She told the Globe: "The cats had an absolute ball and we know they looked forward to every weekend.
"What we also loved was the stories and the reasons people came to see the cats.
"Many people came for their own mental health reasons, or because family members are allergic and they can’t adopt.
"We know that cat cuddling did as much for the humans as it did the cats and it made us so happy.
"We got many cats adopted, and it was very successful in spreading the word about adopt, don’t shop."
Following this, Steph has now announced that they will be opening a rescue cat café in 2024 on Market Street in Hoylake.
The cat café will feature only rescue cats, none bought from breeders.
@jacksonscatcafe A walkthrough of the building that will soon become the Jackson’s Cat Cafe! This project will be a huge help for rescue cats, education, and a wonderful community venue in Hoylake, Wirral. Please see our website for more info! @Jackson’s Animal Rescue ♬ Aesthetic - Tollan Kim
All cats will have been rescued by Jackson's Animal Rescue and have their own stories to tell.
The café will be "a place of sanctuary, relaxation, and education".
Events will be held such as quiet hour (for those with neurodivergent or sensory needs), young people education sessions, quiz nights, book club, and many more.
Steph added: "We want to use the premise as a lot of education work.
"We want to tackle the root of the problem and talk to people about adopting rather than the irresponsible buying of cats.
"I’m so excited to get more cats adopted and teach people more about what we do, and also give back to people because we know animals can be great therapy."
The Jackson's Cat Café will serve coffee and cake to start with, hoping to eventually have a full menu.
It is due to open in March 2024.
For more information, click here.
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