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Posted: 19th September 2024

Safe house cat awarded National Cat of the Year
Marley has an innate instinct for knowing when safe house residents need his comfort.
Marley comforts women who have been enslaved, exploited and trafficked.

A seven-year-old cat in London has been named as Cats Protection’s National Cat of the Year for his work in a safe house for women.

Marley received the accolade at a ceremony hosted by novelist Dawn O’Porter at London’s One Marylebone on 18 September.

He was celebrated for his work at Caritas Bakhita House in London, which provides a safe house for enslaved, exploited and trafficked women. It is currently home to 11 women from 11 different countries.

The team at Bakhita House say that Marley, who was adopted from a rescue centre four years ago, has an innate instinct for knowing when residents need his comfort.

When a new resident arrives, Marley often sits close to them to see how they respond. He then gently places a paw on their leg to comfort them.

In one case, the safe house had a resident who was so traumatised that she didn’t speak to any of the team. However she soon built a bond with Marley and, in time, they were able to reach out to her.

As well as providing comfort to new residents, the team describes him as their staff supervisor, security guard and chief gardener. He is a popular muse at Bakhita House’s art therapy sessions and inspired one guest to compose a song for him.

To reach the final four of the National Cat Awards, Marley also won the Incredible Cats category, which recognises cats which inspire ‘extraordinary acts of love’.

Karen Anstiss, head of Bakhita House, said: “I’m so proud Marley has won National Cat of the Year – he’s a wonderful example of the power of love.

“Often Marley placing a paw on our guests’ legs is the first kindness they’ve experienced in years. He has this incredible gift of empathy and has assisted many, many women along the road to recovery.”

The winner in the Family Cat category was Zara, who offers pastoral care at St John the Evangelist in Bexley. Cilla was the winner of the Connected category, as she supports pupils at Outwoods Primary School in Atherstone.

Meanwhile the winner in the Senior Cats category is Miss Dave Mittens who, at the age of 21, has spent a long lifetime with her owners.

Images © Cats Protection



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