A true badger champion. A tribute to Debbie Bailey from Badger Trust

Badger Trust remembers Debbie Bailey, a tireless advocate for badgers and wildlife. From leading pioneering vaccination projects to tackling wildlife crime, her passion, kindness, and dedication leave a lasting legacy.

Debbie was a deeply passionate advocate for badgers and all wildlife. Her dedication to badgers shone through in every aspect of her work, from her active role in her local badger group, rescuing and rehabilitating injured animals, and tackling wildlife crime, to leading a hugely successful vaccination project. She also generously contributed her time and expertise as a past trustee of Badger Trust.

Her unwavering belief in vaccinating badgers to protect them, and in ending ineffective culling practices, was truly inspiring. Her pioneering vaccination project, developed in collaboration with the Wildlife Trusts, became a powerful example at a pivotal moment.

Debbie forged strong partnerships with major national organisations, securing funding and large-scale collaboration that was replicated across England. She stood up to represent badgers on a national level, on TV, in documentaries & other media. Her outstanding contributions were rightly recognised in 2018, when she received the IFAW Award, a well-deserved testament to her dedication and tireless work.

Debbie will also be remembered for her determined efforts to tackle wildlife crime. She was never afraid to challenge wrongdoing and was always ready to assist the police, particularly Derbyshire Police, but also neighbouring forces. Often, she would take calls in the middle of the night, ensuring that wildlife had a voice and that action was taken. Her steadfast support will be deeply missed, and on behalf of wildlife crime officers and partners across the country, we extend our heartfelt thanks for everything she did.

Debbie’s dedication was rare and remarkable. She didn’t just speak about the causes she believed in; she lived them. With quiet determination and a generous heart, she transformed passion into meaningful action, leaving a lasting legacy of care, compassion, and change.

Above all, Debbie will be remembered for her kindness. She was always there for others, offering support, guidance, and encouragement whenever it was needed. We have lost not only a committed colleague but a dear badger friend, a vibrant force of nature, bursting with energy and enthusiasm, especially when it came to her beloved badgers.

Debbie was a true Badger Champion, for the animals she fought for and for all of us who were touched by her kindness. Her work will never be forgotten. Her spirit will remain a guiding light, and her memory a comfort to us all.

Badger Trust is deeply grateful for all that Debbie did for badgers and badger groups across the country. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family and friends, especially those in the Derbyshire Badger Groups, and hold them in our thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.

Nigel Palmer, CEO, Badger Trust:

It was in 2013, within the Team Badger coalition, that I first met Debbie, where her drive and passion for Badgers was already evident. I remember Debbie feeling nervous about speaking to her peers, and then she delivered a powerful and motivating speech about vaccination. That, for me, was Debbie: a kind, humble lady who pushed herself to achieve the best outcomes for her beloved Badgers. 

Craig Fellowes MBE, Crime & Training Officer, Badger Trust:

I have personally known Debbie for many years, and she was a strong supporter of tackling wildlife crime, always willing to offer support to the police, providing her expert advice to all, regardless of the situation or time of day. She was known as the ‘Badger lady’ within the local police and was always willing to assist me with my role, even before my Badger Trust days. I recall Debbie well at many events, and you always knew when she was in the room. She was everything badger, an enthusiast, a badger lover, and one of its biggest fans.

Sally Jones, Groups Manager, Badger Trust:

I had the pleasure of speaking with Debbie on many occasions, in meetings, in person, and over the phone. Her brightness and infectious laugh will always remain a fond memory. It is rare to meet someone so deeply dedicated to a cause they care about, someone who not only speaks with passion but consistently transforms that passion into meaningful action. Debbie was a true doer, and her tireless work made a real difference. I will always be grateful for all she did for badgers, for her badger group, and for the unwavering support she gave to other groups. A true guiding light.

Debbie Bailey Foundation for Badgers

In her memory, Debbie’s family has initiated a fundraiser to establish the “Debbie Bailey Foundation for Badgers.” This is a beautiful tribute to a remarkable person, ensuring that her passion for protecting badgers’ lives on and continues to make a difference in the future. www.debbiebailey.org 

Please give what you can here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-us-set-up-the-debbie-bailey-badger-foundation

Funeral arrangements

Debbie’s funeral will take place at Stockport Crematorium on Wednesday, 20 August at 2:30 pm. For those unable to travel to the Crematorium, Whaley Bridge Bowling Club will also be streaming the funeral service live. For anyone unable to attend either venue, the link to the service will be shared on www.debbiebailey.org

The wake will then take place at Whaley Bridge Bowling Club from 4:00 pm. Everyone is welcome to attend both the funeral and the wake.

Funeral attire is not required. Everyone should wear what they feel most comfortable wearing.

Family flowers only.