Friends of Birkenhead Kennels
Stray kennel facility helping rehome stray & unwanted dogs of Wirral since 2014.
Sam Simpson
Volunteer Kennel Manager & Trustee
Responsible for the smooth running of a stray kennel facility, which basically means being a manager, trustee, cleaner, councilor, referee, dog whisperer, plumber and occasional miracle worker.
Since the age of 19, I've had 21 rescue dogs (17 from Birkenhead Kennels) because apparently I don't know how to say "no" to a wagging tail. I've got a soft spot for Boxers, Labs, the oldies, blind dogs and any magnificent tripod or turnip of a pup that needs the extra love & care.
I joined Friends of Birkenhead Kennels back in 2011 as a volunteer, and when we took over running the stray facility in 2014 I stepped up as volunteer Manager......and they still haven't got rid of me.
Over 35 years of hands on experience & handling, qualified microchipper, dog warden and chief of the hoover and mop, with an unusually high tolerance for barking, fur, mud, mess and absolute chaos.
When I'm not hoovering or solving daily dog drama, you'll find me doing round the clock walks with my 8 current rescue dogs, bouncing troublemakers on the pub doors at weekends, or somewhere in a muddy field enjoying a festival.
Cheryl Smith
Dog Welfare Assistant
Unofficial Title: Chief of Everything Else & Professional Plate Spinner!
I first joined the kennels as a volunteer in 2012 and became a member of staff in 2014, when FOBK took over the day-to-day running of the site. Since then, I’ve been part of the team helping keep everything running smoothly.
I keep things organised from behind the scenes… until I’m needed somewhere else! I spend around 80% of my time office-based, with the other 20% spent being stretched across whatever else needs doing. There’s never a dull moment!
I’m a sucker for a bargain, whether that’s at a car boot sale or finding a great deal while out shopping. I also have a soft spot for my Maltese cross, Mario, who was adopted from the kennels.
At home I have four children, one tortoise called Nev, and Mario the dog. There’s plenty going on at home, too!
When I’m not working, I love family holidays, browsing car boot sales and bagging a bargain. I clearly enjoy keeping busy, both at work and at home!
In a Nutshell: If something needs doing, there’s a good chance I’ll get roped into it! Whether I’m behind a desk or helping out elsewhere, I’m always happy to muck in and do my bit for FOBK and the dogs.
Sarah Bown
Dog Welfare Assistant
Unofficial Title: Nervous Dog Whisperer, American Bulldog Enthusiast & First on the Dance Floor
Having first joined us as a volunteer back in 2015, it wasn’t long before I became part of the furniture! In 2017, I was offered a temporary role as Dog Welfare Assistant, which soon became permanent — and I’m very glad it did.
As a full-time member of the team, I dedicate my time to the dogs who need a little extra patience, understanding and reassurance. From the nervous and fearful to the reactive, I’m passionate about helping them learn to trust again, building their confidence one step at a time until they’re ready to meet the rest of the team.
At home, I have a Jack Russell Terrier mix, but don’t let that fool you — my heart belongs to the big dogs, and I’m an absolute sucker for an American Bulldog! When I’m not busy helping our four-legged friends find their feet, you’ll likely find me pumping iron at the gym or enjoying life as a new homeowner.
And when the working day is done? I’m more than happy to swap the kennels for a glass of Prosecco and a good boogie! Because after all, even a dog welfare superstar deserves to let her hair down!
Gemma Curtis
Dog Welfare Assistant
Unofficial Title: Master of Cable-Tie Engineering, Black Dog Champion, & Tech Support
I officially joined the team three years ago after serving as a dedicated volunteer, though my devotion to dogs goes back as far as I can remember. Growing up with a lifelong passion for canines, I make it my mission to ensure every dog feels a genuine sense of love and comfort during their stay at our kennels. Armed with a qualification in Animal Behaviour and Welfare from Reaseheath and a past life as an Animal Nursing Assistant, I feel uniquely qualified to read canine minds—and soothe those anxious hearts.
Of course, my animal care journey extends far beyond domestic pups. I have also rolled up my sleeves to volunteer at an animal refuge abroad, getting hands-on experience working with big cats, wolves, bears, and monkeys. Back at the kennels, however, my true superpower is being the ultimate "fix-it" person—I firmly believe there is no problem that cannot be solved with a handful of cable ties.
I remain completely powerless against the charms of black dogs and am a total sucker for a crusty senior pup. If you don't see me at the kennels, I am likely running (a lot) or hiking up a mountain, using that endless cardio to survive my home life where I manage a chaotic zoo of four children, two black Labs, a cat, and two guinea pigs.
Gill Roberts
Dog Welfare Assistant
Unofficial Title: Master of Suds & Chief Staffie Whisperer
I have dedicated my life to working with dogs since leaving school, gathering years of hands-on experience across numerous animal care roles. With my Diploma in Work-Based Animal Care and Welfare, I’m fully qualified to handle all aspects of canine health and daily wellbeing.
I’m always first in line for the messy jobs, from tricky nail trims to giving deep-cleansing baths to the muddiest rescues that arrive. However, my heart is in the connection I build with the dogs; you’ll usually find me sitting on the floor with them, offering quiet reassurance and extra affection to those who need comfort the most.
I am a massive sucker for a Staffie—I can't resist their wide, goofy smiles and huge heads. My past is filled with adventure, having traveled the globe volunteering with international animal charities. While my days of skydiving and bungee jumping are mostly behind me, I now pour all that fearlessness into fighting for every rescue dog in my care and making sure even the most difficult pups feel safe and loved.
Neil Jones
Dog Welfare Assistant
Unofficial Title: Pivotal & Indispensable Team Member | Paragon of Care
I started my journey as a volunteer dog walker and quickly found myself stepping in to help across the kennels whenever I was needed. When a permanent position opened up, joining the team felt like the most natural next step.
I’m known for my humility, and my favourite part of the job is building meaningful relationships with the dogs. There is nothing more rewarding to me than watching a dog relax and begin to trust me. (I also thoroughly enjoy a good, thorough ear clean!)
Behind the scenes, I’m known around the kennels for my relentless supply of classic dad jokes, keeping team spirits high no matter how busy the day gets. I also have an eagle-eyed knack for spotting valuable donated items to sell and raise vital funds for the dogs—earning me the affectionate nickname “Lovejoy.”
When I’m not at the kennels caring for the dogs, you’ll usually find me out on the golf course working on my swing or testing my bluff at the poker table.
Cloe Simpson
Dog Welfare Assistant
Unofficial Title: Professional dog cuddler, treat dispenser & full-time lover of four-legged chaos!
My love for dogs started long before I could officially call it a job! Growing up surrounded by dogs, I was pretty much destined for a life covered in dog hair.
My journey with Birkenhead Kennels began at just 13 years old, tagging along with my mum to help at fundraising events. Fast forward a few years (and a lot of muddy paw prints), and at 28 I finally landed my official title of Dog Welfare Assistant! I've now been part of the team for a year and a half, and I wouldn't change it for the world.
In June 2025, I even brought my work home with me when I adopted my very own wonky rescue pup from the kennels. She's proof that perfection is overrated and a little bit of wonkiness makes life more interesting!
When I'm not at the kennels being bossed around by dogs, you'll find me at home being bossed around by my children, out walking my wonky four-legged bestie, adding yet another tattoo to the collection, or dancing away at a festival watching my favourite DJs.
Basically, my life revolves around dogs, kids, tattoos and loud music… and I wouldn't have it any other way!
Ella McDaid
Dog Welfare Assistant
Unofficial Title: Dog Cuddler & Treat Dispenser
Fresh off completing my T-Level in Animal Management and Science at Reaseheath College, I joined the team at Birkenhead Kennels in September 2026. Having already gained hands-on experience working at Reaseheath Zoo and on local farms, I was ready to jump straight into the action and put my knowledge into practice.
I’m passionate about dog welfare and dedicated to making sure every dog receives the care, patience and attention they deserve. Whether I’m building trust with a dog who needs a little extra reassurance or getting to know the different personalities in our care, I love the variety that each day brings and the opportunity to make a positive difference to their lives.
Off duty, I take my Adventure Buddy status very seriously. When I’m not spending time with my own pack of three dogs or heading out on a hike with them, I’m usually dreaming about my next getaway. I have a huge passion for travel and love exploring new countries, discovering exciting destinations and immersing myself in new experiences whenever I get the chance.