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RSPCA Inspector

Do you want to become a RSPCA Inspector? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:

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RSPCA inspectors undertake practical investigation work on behalf of the RSPCA, which exists to prevent cruelty to animals. In Scotland, SSPCA inspectors have a similar role.

• Inspectors investigate an initial claim of neglect or cruelty.
• If the problem is due to neglect, they will provide practical advice on animal care.
• In cases of cruelty, they will collect evidence, undertake interviews and remove the animal from the site. Later on they will present evidence in court.
• RSPCA/SSPCA inspectors also undertake rescue work in urban and country areas.
• Inspectors also visit and check other sites where animals are kept, such as farms and markets.
• Inspectors also follow up calls about lost or suffering animals. 

In the RSPCA, inspectors work shifts from 8am to 8pm, Monday to Friday. SSPCA inspectors work 37.5 hours a week, usually between 8.30am and 5pm. Inspectors are home based but work outdoors in all types of weather conditions.

Salaries range from around £15,800 for a student inspector to £30,000 for an experienced inspector.

An RSPCA or SSPCA inspector should:

•  have excellent communication skills
• be good with people
• be able to keep calm in emergencies
• care deeply about animal welfare
• be physically fit.

For the RSPCA, applicants need at least two GCSEs/S grades (A-C/1-3) in English and a science subject, preferably biology. For the SSPCA, applicants need five GCSEs/S grades (A-C/1-3) including English. There is no upper age limit in the RSPCA.

The RSPCA provides a six-month training course. This includes eight weeks' field training and a number of written exams. Inspectors can work towards NVQ Level 3 in Animal Care.

The RSPCA currently employs 300 inspectors. The SSPCA employs 55 inspectors. Inspectors can be promoted to chief inspector, managing a team of five to ten inspectors. They can then progress to working as a regional superintendent.

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