Sandwell Council Leader Councillor Kerrie Carmichael has been awarded the first ever Massingham Advocacy Award at the RSPCA PawPrints Awards.

The award, which recognises Cllr Carmichael's exceptional contributions to advocating for animal welfare, comes only a month after the council passed a cross-party motion to establish am Animal Welfare Taskforce that will, amongst other actions, identify ways of working collaboratively with other organisations to protect nature and habitats and prevent cruelty to animals both domestic and wild.

This prestigious award, newly introduced this year, commemorates both the RSPCA's 200th anniversary and the centennial of its Public Affairs team, named in honour of Mrs. Gertrude Speedwell Massingham, a pioneering advocate for animal welfare.

The Massingham Advocacy Award celebrates elected officials who have demonstrated outstanding dedication to promoting animal welfare, fostering a world where all animals are treated with respect, kindness, and compassion.

Councillor Carmichael was awarded for her leadership in Sandwell Council adopting a pioneering Animal Welfare Charter and her active support of the RSPCA's 2024 Local Government Animal Welfare Manifesto.

Lee Gingell, RSPCA public affairs manager for local government, said: "We are delighted to recognise Councillor Kerrie Carmichael's outstanding commitment to animal welfare with the Massingham Advocacy PawPrints Award.

"This is a particularly poignant award, given during our 200th anniversary year and named after the RSPCA's first ever public affairs staff member, who was advocating for animals one century ago.

“Councillor Carmichael’s leadership in adopting Sandwell Council’s Animal Welfare Charter and supporting the RSPCA's local government manifesto demonstrates a true dedication to protecting and advancing animal welfare.

"By establishing an innovative local animal welfare task force, she has set a powerful example of what local government can achieve.

"Councillor Carmichael’s work has made a real difference for animals in Sandwell, and her proactive approach provides an inspiring model for councils across the country."

Councillor Kerrie Carmichael, Leader of Sandwell Council, added: “I am incredibly happy to receive this recognition from the RSPCA, honouring my commitment to championing animal welfare and inspiring positive change.

“I am truly proud that this award reflects not just my commitment but also that of our council and our borough to being at the forefront of animal welfare.“

Earlier this year Sandwell Council also launched a new Welfare Charter aimed at safeguarding and protecting wildlife and pets across the borough.

The charter draws inspiration from the RSPCA’s charter and encompasses a range of principles and guidelines designed to protect animals and their rights. It reflects the council’s dedication to fostering a culture of respect, empathy and responsibility for animals across Sandwell.

By implementing these initiatives, Sandwell Council seeks to create a safer, more compassionate environment for animals to thrive.