Dr Jacqui Wilmshurst

I am working towards a PhD in Anthrozoology and Applied Animal Ethics via a project entitled 'Caring Wildly'. My research explores the role of human-animal relationships in rehabilitation; of wild animals and of human caregivers, in the context of a wildlife sanctuary. 

Several years' practice as a licensed wildlife rehabilitator have already shown me that these animals have much to teach us; about their individuality, capabilities, adaptability, and needs. Also about our animal natures, our own rehabilitation from illness, injury and trauma. Also the wider cultural narratives that shape how we view these themes, in us and in other animals.

Using qualitative multispecies methodology, the research explores intersections of animal ethics, care ethics, rehabilitation, welfare and wellbeing.  

The animals in this study are unable to return to the wild, and are already living in captivity for the sole purpose of their own rehabilitation and welfare. 

I have a previous academic background in health, social and environmental psychology, applied to human-natural environment relationships and in particular towards improved resilience and risk management for natural hazards. This research examined other 'ways of knowing' alongside conventional scientific and academic enquiry, including indigenous and traditional knowledge about the natural world and other animals.

In addition to my work as an academic, I was previously an officer in the British Army (retired as Captain) and a leader in mental health and wellbeing in large complex organisations including the BBC, Meta and TikTok. I am a Chartered Member and Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Socety, in the Division of Academics, Researchers and Teachers in Psychology.

For the past decade I have been working as a consultant and senior leader in health, wellbeing, and inclusion in the workplace, and I provide additional services as a speaker and consultant in Conservation Psychology and behaviour change.

I also run a small, private wildlife sanctuary from my home in East Yorkshire. I have worked with a wide range of urban wildlife, and now focus exclusively on the rehabilitation and care of birds from the corvid (crow) family, and grey squirrels for which I hold a licence from Natural England.

www.jacquiwilmshurst.com