A group of local dog owners have shared the joy they feel while supporting patients at mental health wards in Chelmsford. Volunteers from Essex Therapy Dogs are now making regular visits to the Linden Centre and Crystal Centre. These friendly four-legged visitors help people feel calm and provide a wonderful sense of comfort during their stay. The visits are organised by staff at the Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust to help improve well-being.
Volunteers Share Their Experiences
Sian, who brings her dog Bella to the wards, said: "The Linden Centre was my first placement when I joined Essex Therapy Dogs. I knew I always wanted to visit here, due to the Crystal Centre helping a family member in the past. I know how challenging mental health units can be for patients, and staff. I knew if I could bring some enjoyment to those people, it makes everything worth it. I absolutely love visiting the Crystal and Linden centres due to the impact it has on patients."
She added: "I had one guy sitting for ages with Bella with treats and a ball, playing with her and doing tricks, and the smile on his face was priceless. You don't realise the impact a dog can have on people, until you see it yourself. The impact our dogs have on patients is truly incredible, and you can truly see how much they love having the dogs visit."
Another Volunteer Joins the Team
Another volunteer named Lorraine decided to join the group with her two Cockerpoos, Dolly and Jessy, after she retired. Lorraine said: "My two dogs have a gentle nature, which is why I got them assessed to become therapy dogs. It took them a couple of visits to get used to the Linden Centre but now they're excited to go in, with tails wagging. They enjoy the interaction with staff and patients. I also notice smiles from most of the patients and they tell us they look forward to the dogs visiting. I've also noticed if someone is by themselves, a dog will approach and that person will happily ask me about my dogs. For me it makes the visit so rewarding when I see how beneficial it has been for patients and staff."
Positive Impact on Ward Environment
The animals play a key role in helping people open up and feel more relaxed in a hospital environment. These sessions are part of a wider programme designed to offer personalised and inclusive care for everyone in the community. Renee Conley, inpatient peer worker team lead, said: "The visits have been rewarding for all involved, including service users and staff. We notice a change in the overall ward environment as the dogs seem to bring a calmness and grounding effect. Our inpatient peer workers, Rosario and Chloe, have supported this valuable service by escorting the dogs and their humans across the wards in Chelmsford and have experienced first-hand how much everyone enjoys meeting them. We are grateful for the Essex Therapy Dogs. They really make a difference."
