The canine befrienders were awarded over £3600 from EyUp! to contribute towards an agility course and Wi-Fi for The Pad at Fieldhead, Wakefield.
Guiding dogs around an agility course offers an excellent opportunity for individuals to engage with them, fostering trusting and respectful relationships that can help them build connections with people.
Angela Barker, befriending project and volunteer support co-ordinator said; “People enjoy watching the canine befrienders navigate the course with their handlers and cheer them on! However, it can take time to build someone’s confidence to try it themselves.
“Service users can request the agility course as part of their one-on-one appointments. These sessions offer a unique opportunity to engage with individuals who may struggle with social interactions but are happy to connect with the dogs.”
The canine befrienders programme was set up in January 2020 to provide inpatients and staff with the opportunity to experience the many benefits of spending time with a therapy animal on a regular basis.
There is a wealth of evidence showing that spending time with animals can reduce stress, provide comfort, and offer distractions from upsetting experiences and symptoms. It promotes social interaction and helps reduce loneliness. Close contact with a therapy animal can also be a deeply spiritual experience, allowing individuals to reconnect with often hidden or neglected parts of themselves. This connection can help feelings and emotions surface, offering a deeply therapeutic and healing experience.
Read more about The Pad.
