A charity which rehomes former commercial laying hens with families is appealing for volunteers for its new rehoming site in Redbridge.
The British Hen Welfare Trust (BHWT), founded by Jane Howorth MBE, offers a “retirement” to hens that have reached the end of their egg-laying cycle, rehoming them in gardens and allotments instead of sending them for slaughter.
Volunteers are needed to help on occasional weekend mornings at the site, located near Barkingside Underground Station.
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Andy Hill from the BHWT said: "Most of these hens have never seen grass or the sun before. Being able to give them the chance of a happy life in someone's garden is incredibly rewarding.
"It’s quite hands-on but it’s great fun. There’s a real sense of teamwork on the day, we all get along great, and it’s lovely seeing the hens head off to their new homes."
He said the charity is especially keen to hear from people who can help with transport. The hens have typically spent 18 months laying eggs for supermarkets and are considered no longer commercially viable.
Mr Hill added: "Being able to bring more hens here means we can give more birds the chance of a better life, so anybody with a van would be a huge bonus."
Those interested in volunteering can email volunteer@bhwt.org.uk or call 01884 860084.
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