Bognor reptile charity launches education campaign
A reptile rescue charity based in Bognor Regis is hoping to take its educational work into more schools, care homes and community groups across Sussex as part of a new fundraising campaign.
The Sussex Reptile Rescue Centre has launched Beyond the Scales, an initiative designed to raise awareness of reptiles, challenge common misconceptions and bring people closer to animals that are often misunderstood.
The charity, which provides care, treatment and rehoming for sick, injured and unwanted reptiles and amphibians, is run by volunteers.
Its new campaign will help fund visits to schools, youth groups, care homes and community organisations, alongside educational workshops and free information sessions.
A spokesperson for the charity said: “During previous visits to local care homes, we received some truly heartwarming feedback.
“Staff told us that residents living with dementia were still talking about meeting our reptiles several days after our visits.
“For us, that says so much about the experiences our animals can help create.
“What might seem like a simple encounter with a snake, tortoise or lizard can spark curiosity, encourage conversations and create moments that people continue to share long after we’ve left.
“And we want to create more of those moments.
"Through our educational outreach programme, we aim to inspire children and young people to discover the fascinating world of reptiles, bring engaging and memorable experiences to care homes and community groups, challenge misconceptions and promote responsible reptile ownership and create opportunities for learning, conversation and connection.
“But we can’t do it alone. As a small, volunteer-supported charity, we rely on the generosity of our community to help us continue and expand this important work.
“We’re aiming to initially raise £3,500 to support educational resources, transport, specialist equipment and the safe delivery of outreach sessions across Sussex.
“Every donation, no matter how small, helps us take our educational programme further.”
Anyone wishing to support Beyond the Scales can donate through the campaign's JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/beyond-the-scales-campaign