Rachel Roche, founder of York-based law firm Roche Legal and creator of PetPact, has won a £75,000 (€94k) Innovate UK Women in Innovation grant to develop her pioneering digital platform. This award addresses an often overlooked legal issue affecting millions of pet owners across Europe and the UK.
PetPact is designed to help pet owners plan for their animals' future care if they become seriously ill, die, or separate from a partner. The platform enables users to name animal guardians and provide clear instructions for ongoing care, complementing traditional wills. Roche’s initiative aims to offer peace of mind by ensuring that pets receive proper care in unforeseen circumstances.
Background
Roche Legal, founded by Rachel Roche, is an award-winning firm based in York, UK. The company created PetPact as a response to the lack of legal provisions for pet guardianship when owners are no longer able to take care of their pets themselves. Currently, animals have similar legal status to household items, which does not reflect their role as family members.
Market / Industry Impact
The launch and potential expansion of PetPact could significantly impact both the legal and veterinary industries in Europe and the UK. The platform aims to integrate with existing services such as vet clinics and insurance providers, creating a more comprehensive care network for pet owners. This integration can enhance trust between service providers and clients by offering a holistic approach to pet welfare.
What to Watch
As PetPact receives funding from Innovate UK’s Women in Innovation programme, the platform is set to undergo further development and testing phases before its full-scale launch. Key milestones include establishing partnerships with vet clinics across Europe and expanding user access through digital platforms commonly used by pet owners. Additionally, Roche will participate in a year-long business support package that includes training and networking opportunities aimed at scaling her innovative solution.
Takeaway
Rachel Roche’s win highlights the importance of addressing legal gaps for pets within family structures. With PetPact set to receive significant funding and strategic guidance from Innovate UK, it is poised to become a leading platform in pet care planning across Europe.