Bexhill animal sanctuary offering mental health support

Buckholt Animal Sanctuary, formerly Buckholt Cattery, already has a few people come and look after the ponies to do some form of work without too many pressures.

Owner Bev Robson has struggled with mental health issues herself, having come close to suicide a number of times.

But after coming through that, she wants to provide a haven for animals and people.

“It’s not just about the animals as we’re like a growing family here for anyone who needs to be talked to,” she said.

Bev has had many issues with her mental health recently but was helped through it with the support of her ex-husband Jimmy Robson and volunteers at the sanctuary.

Bev is currently homeless and lives in a chicken pen at the former cattery on Buckholt Lane, but she said she cares more about the animals’ welfare than herself.

All sorts of animals are taken in at the sanctuary; chickens, horses, birds, pets, and other wildlife that need help.

But Bev wants to lend a hand to people too and can provide a cup of tea and someone to listen or some casual work which can also be beneficial.

The idea is to build the sanctuary into a safe place for everyone and Bev is slowly getting there.

“Sometimes there are 15 people but sometimes it’s two, but if someone needs someone to talk to then we are here,” she said.

Unfortunately, due to Bev’s recent troubles, many of the animals had to be rehomed as she could not look after them.

And any donations or help the community could offer would be greatly appreciated.

“We always need money as I spend as much on rescuing animals in the past,” Bev said.

“I’m coming out of a really bad bit where I wanted to end things but I’m starting to get better now so I can understand what people are going through.”

For more information or to make a donation, call Bev on 07935809743.

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