Dog owners are finding immense joy in bringing their pets to visit residents at Clifton Lodge, a care home in Westcliff run by Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust. The home provides care for older people, including those with dementia.
Teri Broadhurst, who now visits with her dog Simba, previously brought her terrier Ollie to the home. She shared, “He absolutely loves it. The more attention he can get, the better. I love it too, it brings a little bit of happiness and smiles to the faces of the people we go and see.” Teri also noted that her visits help her 18-year-old grandson understand the significant difference a small gesture, like bringing Simba along, can make for the residents.
“"One of the smallest gifts you can give them can give them the biggest and brightest present they can ask for."
Katherine Woolford and Will McGuinness recently introduced their French bulldog Elvis and Labrador-Staffordshire bull terrier cross Dolly to Clifton Lodge. Named after musical icons, the pets have quickly settled in.
“Elvis likes it, he got on really well, and the residents are lovely, they all say hello,” said Katherine. Dolly, described as more extrovert, has also been well-behaved, forming immediate friendships with residents.
Sandie Woolford, an activities coordinator at Clifton Lodge and mother to Katherine, highlighted the positive impact of the canine visitors. “We have several dogs that visit now – Frank, Simba, Elvis and Dolly,” she stated. “The residents look forward to their visits and are always asking when they will be in and who will be visiting.”
Sandie emphasised that these visits are more than just pet therapy; they involve loving pets engaging with residents to bring joy, excitement, and smiles, thereby lifting morale and evoking reminiscence.
Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT) aims to be a leading health and wellbeing service, providing mental health and community care to over 100,000 patients at any one time. The organisation has invested in facilities, technology, and staff training to enhance care quality and safety.
