We have cemented our links with The University of Winchester by forging a strategic partnership at our head office, on Thursday 13^th August 2015.

University Vice-Chancellor Professor Joy Carter and our CEO Philip Lymbery, signed an official agreement designed to strengthen an existing academic bond between the two institutions. 

“We are delighted to fortify our partnership with Compassion in World Farming,” said Professor Carter. “Animal welfare is in my DNA, and the charity’s values resonate with the ethos of the University’s new Centre for Animal Welfare. Together we hope to increase society’s knowledge and understanding of animal welfare issues.” 

Professor Carter announced the appointment of two new animal welfare Professors, that Compassion will be assisting with the development of the University’s graduate courses and postgraduate research in the field of animal welfare science, law, and ethics. 

On signing the agreement, our CEO said: “There is a growth in awareness of animal welfare, not only as a serious intellectual discipline, but also as a great ethical subject.” Compassion will be delighted to welcome students to benefit from future volunteer and internship opportunities, whilst Philip intends to work with university researchers over the coming years to jointly develop academic publications. 

In addition to this exciting partnership, Philip has received a University of Winchester visiting professorship and Joyce D’Silva, Ambassador for Compassion, is to be awarded an honorary doctorate for her lifetime’s work in animal welfare during the institution’s graduation celebrations in October. 

Philip added: “I am honoured to receive this professorship. We can all learn from one another in order to improve our knowledge of animal welfare and enable practical steps to be taken towards providing real help for farm animals all over the world as a result.” 

In 2009 Winchester was the first UK University to receive the Compassion Good Chicken and Good Egg awards. Professor Joy Carter reiterated that this strategic partnership really demonstrates the University of Winchester’s long-term commitment to improving the lives of farm animals.  In her speech she added, “Together, we’ll be stronger, for the sake of the animals…and really make a difference.”

Update: Further to that powerful partnership, in May 2016, the University of Winchester launched a new Centre for Animal Welfare - a new vibrant hub for events, teaching, and research on the subject of animal welfare.