
People and Animals CIC
I have been interested in finding out more about People and Animals CIC for some time, seeing their name appear sometimes and occasionally mentioned by others, but I hadn’t really understood what they do until I went along to one of their “Toast” afternoons at the Queen Mary Centre (Fridays, 3.30pm to 5pm) I had a lovely afternoon and a good chat with them. The idea is that through a shared love of dogs people can meet new friends and learn new skills as well as have a nice afternoon out. It is however much more than that as the way Katie and her colleagues work is not just about creating opportunities for friendships and learning. I’d highly recommend looking at the research and reports on their website, but the general idea is that having a “companion animal” vastly improves health and wellbeing. By providing specially trained dogs at these afternoons, the benefits can also be seen in visitors who do not have their own pets. (The dogs enjoy the afternoon as they are provided with toys and a set of mini jumps to have a go at with their owners).
Kate is also helping pupils at the Octavia Academy in Wisbech where they are “drawing upon the unique way that dogs motivate and empower us” to help pupils with their confidence and social skills.
Both projects are looking to improve wellbeing, which is something we should all strive for. Finding something that helps you relax, de-stress and enjoy as an activity purely for you is important. Organisations like this, that bring new and easily accessible ways to help us cope when needed, are very welcome. I feel strongly that this kind of project really deserves promotion and recognition and so can still be described as a hidden gem. I’m pleased to be able, hopefully, to bring them to the attention of more people. I think maybe I should look a little bit further every time I see a new organisation appear, as they could all be as wonderful as this and I’d have enjoyed their activities and events a lot earlier!
I’ll be expanding the column to be supporting not only our heritage and culture (including small local businesses), but also write more about those having a “social impact” and improving lives, let me know if you hear of one.
peopleandanimals.org.uk
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