Donkey rescue sanctuary in Cornwall awarded special accreditation

The Flicka Foundation rescues abandoned, abused and neglected donkeys

Author: Sarah YeomanPublished 3rd Mar 2022

A Cornwall charity that rescues abandoned, abused or neglected donkeys has been given special accreditation.

The Flicka Foundation near Penryn is home to over 100 animals.

It has been recognised by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries.

Overseeing dozens of animal sanctuaries worldwide, the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is a well respected international governing body.

Formed in 2007 by globally recognised animal protection professionals, its mission is to improve the quality of care for animals requiring sanctuary and only facilities that meet the organisation’s high standards of animal care, sanctuary operations and charity administration are approved for Accreditation.

Daryl Tropea, GFAS Program Director-Equine said: "We are very proud to announce the Accreditation of The Flicka Foundation Donkey Sanctuary. In addition to providing excellent care for these special equines, The Flicka Foundation implements the full range of nonprofit management best practices, and clearly is a model sanctuary for others to follow.”

With only one other animal sanctuary in the whole of Europe having earned this high level award and the charity now being the first Accredited equine sanctuary in Europe, The Flicka Foundation team are absolutely delighted with the result.

Charity Director Judy Giles said: “We are just thrilled to receive GFAS Accreditation! As an animal sanctuary, we follow our hearts, and our morals and compassion tell us we are doing the best we possibly can for the animals that find themselves in desperate need of our help. Running a sanctuary can be challenging to say the least though, so to have a professional body tell us we’re doing things right is so rewarding and encouraging.”

The Flicka Foundation’s Cornish sanctuary is currently home to over 100 donkeys and ponies rescued from conditions of abuse, neglect or abandonment.

Its resident equines enjoy a peaceful second chance at life; grazing in spacious paddocks and relaxing in cosy barns with all their needs catered for by a dedicated, experienced team.

Judy went on to say: “We must take this opportunity to thank our wonderful team and our amazing, loyal supporters - without whom none of our work would be possible.”

Members of the public are welcome to visit the donkeys all year round on selected open days.

You can find out more or donate to support the charity’s work here.

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