Forever Learning

Another six of our wonderful volunteers headed off over the border recently to spend the day with the inspirational, educational and entertaining Jeff Wood from Vale Wildlife Hospital & Rehabilitation Centre. This wonderful facility delivers a one-day Hedgehog First Aid and Rehabilitation course, in partnership with the British Hedgehog Preservation Society, to a room full of wonderful folks with one thing on their minds - saving hedgehogs.

Aimed at hedgehog carers, rescue centre staff, volunteers, vets and vet nurses, the course provides valuable information about hedgehogs and the rehabilitation process.

All the team thoroughly enjoyed the day, and we are so grateful that they were able to take their time to do this course. It is a long and full day with added practical sessions, but all of our volunteers who attended, shared their delight in going.

"I really enjoyed the course," says Maeve. "It was presented by members of the Vale team who had it down to a fine art, both educational and entertaining. I’m sure I can apply what I learned on the day to enhance my role as a volunteer."

"I came away with a much deeper understanding of these lovely little creatures," comments Anne. "I learned a great deal about the various health problems they face, and how to best help them, and maybe even more importantly, when not to. The instructor, Jeff, was engaging and entertaining, with a great wealth of knowledge. It was truly a wonderful learning experience!"

Chris also loved her day: "The Vale course was absolutely superb and inspiring - highly recommended. So much relevant and valuable information delivered in such a skilful and memorable way!"

Training days like this are incredibly important to us. With hedgehogs making up most of our charges, we need to make sure we are continually developing our skills, so we can offer them the very best care. This training project was made possible through a grant from the Dry Rigg Quarry Natural Environment Fund, administered by the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, to whom we send our thanks!