Cat who helps trafficking victims among finalists in UK's National Cat Awards
Marley, the resident cat at a British charity that has been involved in the rescue and rehabilitation of human trafficking victims, has been selected as one of the finalists at the National Cat Awards. The annual award is organized by the animal charity Cats Protection, and Marley has been selected under the 'Incredible Cats' category.
National Cat Award
The winner of the National Cat of the Year 2024 award will be announced in September and will be chosen from the following categories -- Connected Cats, Family Cats, Senior Cats, and Incredible Cats.
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According to Caritas Bakhita House, which was opened in 2015 and has provided accommodation to 195 women and 16 babies from almost 50 different countries, Marley has been instrumental in helping the trafficking victims rebuild their lives.
How Marley helps trafficking victims
Karen Anstiss, Head of Bakhita House, said that Marley's own past as a victim of abuse by his owner may have helped the cat bond with the trafficking victims.
"We adopted Marley four years ago, and I think he'd suffered abuse as he is terrified of men aged around 30. So he recognizes our guests' trauma. One woman was in such distress she couldn't speak to us, only to Marley. But, because she trusted him, over time we were able to build a bridge and reach her," Anstiss said.
First gesture of kindness
According to her, Marley placing a gentle paw on our guests' legs is the first kindness they've experienced in years.
"He has this incredible gift of empathy, knowing instinctively who needs him," she said.
Marley's other responsibilities?
Being the resident cat, seven-year-old Marley's 'other responsibilities' at the house include being a staff supervisor, security guard, patrolling the grounds, and chief gardener.
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"Nobody is allowed to touch his patch of daisies! In art therapy, he's a popular muse, and one guest even composed a song for him. At 7 p.m., staff and guests sit down for dinner together, like a family, and Marley joins us. He's the fluffy heart of our home," Anstiss said.
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