Volunteers from Essex Therapy Dogs regularly visit patients at the Linden Centre and Crystal Centre, which are run by Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT).
Sian, who takes 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 impact it has on patients.
“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.”
Lorraine, owner of Cockerpoos Dolly and Jessy, joined Essex Therapy Dogs when she retired to give something back to the community.
She 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.”
EPUT has a number of therapy animals who visit the Trust’s inpatient wards and care homes with their owners. The pets help people to feel calm and comforted, and to open up conversation.
Their visits are part of the therapeutic activities offered to patients, which have been broadened as part of the Time to Care programme. It is part of the Trust’s commitment to providing personalised, inclusive care that improves mental health for everyone.
Peer workers, who are staff with lived experience of mental health services and provide support and advocacy for patients, organise the Essex Therapy Dog visits.
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.”