Episode 18: Nora Smith and the work of the USPCA

In this episode we focus on the work of the Ulster Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, otherwise known as the USPCA. 

Established in 1836, the USPCA is the second oldest animal welfare charity in the world, and we were delighted to have the chance to talk to Nora Smith, Chief Executive. 

The USPCA work across many different areas of animal welfare including rehoming, working with wildlife, providing veterinary care, animal cruelty investigations, community support and campaigning, particularly around the illegal puppy trade and badger baiting, amongst other things. 

There are lots of challenges in animal welfare, but you'll hear many examples of how the USPCA is influencing, supporting, campaigning and improving the lives of animals and people across Northern Ireland. 

Find out more about the work of the USPCA here 

Speaker Biography

Nora Smith, is the Chief Executive of the USPCA, she has been in post since January 2023.  As CEO her role is to lead the staff team to grow and extend the charity’s services across Northern Ireland.  Prior to working with the USPCA, Nora was the Chief Executive of a membership-based charity providing leadership support for Charity Chief Executives, a post she held for eight years.  She has experience of working across the public, private and third sectors, leading change and growth strategies.  Advocacy and campaigning have been a central function of her experience.  Nora lives with her partner Michael, alongside their eight-year old cat called Eamonn and Cooper a three-year energetic Labrador.