🚨 A Major Milestone in Our Relocation Journey
Strategic Progress Toward a Stronger Future
As part of our structured growth and infrastructure strategy, the Association of Protecting Exotic Species CIC (APES CIC) has identified what we believe is the right premises to support our next operational phase.
This property is not just suitable — it is strategically aligned with our long-term vision. It supports:
Expanded, welfare-compliant rehabilitation capacity
Purpose-built enclosures meeting regulatory standards
Dedicated education, training, and consultation spaces
Improved operational resilience and biosecurity
Infrastructure capable of supporting policy engagement and preventative education
Interest in the property has been strong, with five additional viewings confirmed. We have formally submitted our application and are now awaiting the landlord’s decision.
At this stage, progression is paused — a normal and responsible part of organisational growth — and one that underscores why sustained fundraising remains essential.
💡 Why Fundraising Continues — Whatever the Outcome
Whether we secure this premises or continue our search, one reality does not change:
APES CIC must build stable, long-term infrastructure to deliver measurable welfare outcomes.
Relocation is not simply a move. It is an investment in:
Regulatory-compliant rehabilitation facilities
Safer intake and assessment capacity
Preventative education and public engagement
Policy-informed welfare standards
Long-term operational resilience
As a CIC, APES reinvests all surpluses directly into welfare programmes, infrastructure, and sector reform.
If this premises is not secured, we will continue our search — and fundraising will remain critical to securing the right facility without compromising welfare standards.
Sustained support builds capacity, compliance, and long-term protection.
🔍 Transparency & Engagement — Recent Developments
🐒 Launch of Our Primate Sponsor Programme
We are pleased to confirm the launch of our dedicated Primate Sponsor Programme:
👉 https://www.apesshelter.org.uk/sponsor-our-primates
This programme increases transparency by sharing:
Individual histories of our resident primates
Their rehabilitation journeys and care needs
Clear, structured ways supporters can contribute
Sponsorship provides predictable, sustainable funding, supporting:
Specialist diets and enrichment
Veterinary oversight
Long-term care planning
APES advocates for lifetime responsibility in primate welfare — structured sponsorship reflects that commitment.
💳 Donation Infrastructure Upgrade — Now Partnered with DonorBox
We have upgraded our donation systems and are now partnered with DonorBox, a globally trusted fundraising platform.
Our updated donation pages now offer:
Secure, encrypted payment processing
One-off and recurring donation options
Transparent transaction tracking
Automated receipts for accountability
A simplified supporter experience
This upgrade strengthens governance, improves forecasting, and supports responsible, evidence-led growth.
Recurring donations enable us to plan ahead, maintain welfare standards, and grow infrastructure sustainably.
🏡 Trial Adoptions — Fully Underway
Our Trial Adoption Programme is now operating at full capacity.
👉 https://www.apesshelter.org.uk/services/adoptions/trial-adoptions
Trial adoptions provide a structured pathway for responsible, long-term placement, including:
Welfare-first matching
Suitability assessments
Professional guidance
Clear compliance expectations
This programme reflects APES’ reform-led approach — moving beyond transactional rehoming toward safeguarded, education-led placement standards.
💙 Thank You to Our Supporters
We extend our sincere thanks to the following supporters whose generosity is directly contributing to our relocation and infrastructure development:
Lisa Taylor – £700
Alison Cronin – £50
Jack Wilcox – £10
Jacob Wilson – £20
John Maguire – £10.67
Pat Scott – £53.52
Ruth Sherlock – £10.67
Rare Candy Raffles (Ben Furlong) – £26.33
Every contribution — regardless of size — strengthens rehabilitation capacity and brings us closer to securing long-term, welfare-first premises.
We are especially grateful for the messages of encouragement shared alongside many donations. Community trust underpins everything we do.
🔮 What Happens Next?
We now await the landlord’s decision.
Regardless of the outcome, APES CIC remains committed to:
Securing appropriate, compliant premises
Expanding structured rehabilitation services
Delivering preventative education
Engaging constructively in welfare reform
Operating transparently as a regulated CIC
This relocation marks a pivotal stage in our organisational development — one that will shape our capacity for years to come.
📊 Impact Summary
This move is not about growth for growth’s sake.
It is about:
Raising welfare standards
Building resilient infrastructure
Strengthening sector leadership
Protecting exotic species through accountable, evidence-led programmes
APES CIC remains reform-oriented, transparent, and focused on long-term public benefit.
🤝 Support the Next Phase of APES CIC
Your support directly strengthens rehabilitation programmes and helps secure compliant, welfare-first premises.
Whether through a one-off contribution or monthly support, you are investing in long-term exotic species protection.
Together, we are building a higher standard of exotic species welfare in the UK.
🔗 Suggested Internal Links
Donate to APES CIC
Our Mission and Governance
Primate Sponsor Programme
Trial Adoption Services
Policy and Advocacy Updates
⚖️ Compliance and Governance Note
APES CIC is a Community Interest Company operating for public benefit. All funds raised are reinvested into welfare programmes, infrastructure development, education initiatives, and responsible ownership reform.
All services operate in alignment with UK animal welfare legislation and internal safeguarding policies.
