As part of Shropshire Chamber’s ‘Act with Impact’ campaign, which highlights members making a difference through sustainability, this case study features Cuan Wildlife Rescue, Shropshire’s only dedicated wildlife rescue centre.

Cuan rescues, rehabilitates, and releases thousands of sick, injured, and orphaned wild animals and birds each year, playing a vital role in maintaining local biodiversity and ecosystem balance.

Behind the scenes, a small team of passionate individuals is quietly making a big impact, not only saving our animals, but inspiring a community to care more deeply about our shared environment.

How did Cuan Wildlife Rescue begin?

Before building this dedicated team of staff and volunteers, Cuan Wildlife began in the 1980’s when its founder, Megan, moved to Much Wenlock and saw there was no local provision for wildlife care. She started by taking in injured animals, building a reputation for compassionate, hands-on rescue work, and as demand grew, the charity expanded into a full wildlife hospital.

Since then, they’ve engaged the local community through a combination of grassroots connections, social media outreach, and partnerships. Today, they continue to raise awareness through talks, school visits, and volunteer opportunities.

Why volunteers are vital to Cuan’s mission

Volunteers are vital to Cuan’s operations, especially during the busy summer months. They assist with animal care cleaning, administration, and rescue driving. Currently, they are looking for new volunteers. However, you must have the right mind set and understand that their work is focused on rehabilitation, not petting or bonding with animals, which can hinder their release.

Tina Cooke, Community Fundraiser and Events Manager said, “We don’t treat the animals like pets, and often don’t really talk to them because that stresses them out. They’re not used to being around humans.”

Actions you can take to help protect local wildlife

Cuan educates the public with practical advice to foster a deeper understanding of how to live in harmony with nature. Here are a few tips for people wanting to support wildlife:

  • Assess the natural environment before building or expanding
  • Check gardens before strimming or lighting bonfires
  • Create hedgehog highways in fences
  • Leave out water during dry spells
  • Avoid disturbing nests or young animals unnecessarily – when touched by humans, some young animals get disowned by their parents

Can people call Cuan Wildlife if they find an injured animal?

Members of the public are encouraged to call Cuan if they find an injured animal. If they are unable to bring the animal in themselves, Cuan has a limited network of rescue drivers who can collect and transport wildlife to the centre for care.

A heartwarming story of a recent rescue

One of Cuan’s most heartwarming recent rescues involved a clutch of swan eggs found abandoned on the Newport Canal after the parent swans were discovered dead. With special permission, the eggs were brought to Cuan, where a successful fundraiser enabled the purchase of a larger incubator for the eggs. Five cygnets hatched and were raised at the centre before being moved to an outdoor pool to prepare for release. This rescue, born from tragic circumstances, became a powerful story of hope and community support.

Tina Cooke said, “I actually saw one of them hatch, and it was beautiful, we were all so relieved we were able to care for them in time before it was too late”.

Standout facts from Cuan

  • They admitted 6,448 animals last year, with hedgehogs being the most common
  • Rare species admitted included a skunk (which sprayed during transport!), Manx shearwaters, and goosanders – species not typically found breeding in the UK
  • Foxes are adapting to urban life, as human expansion continues to encroach their natural habitats

When Megan started Cuan, she was simply doing what felt right. Today, her legacy continues through a dedicated team working to protect the wildlife left behind as we reshape their habitats. Cuan not only rescues animals, but it also educates, inspires, and empowers the community to care.

If you’re a business wanting to go the extra mile in supporting our wildlife, Cuan is happy to offer guidance on how you can weave easy initiatives into your processes, or if you ever come to find an injured animal, don’t hesitate to contact them on 01952 728070.

Shropshire Chamber encourages local businesses to share best practice around sustainability, whether it’s tips, tricks, offers, or success stories. If you’ve got something to share with the Shropshire business community, get in touch with our marketing team at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..