Tails were wagging with joy as The High Sheriff of Essex visited Broomfield Hospital during Volunteers’ Week to celebrate the amazing work of Essex Therapy Dogs.
The visit was the paw-fect way to shine a light on the volunteers who give their time to support patients and staff across the hospital as well as Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust’s other main hospital sites in Southend and Basildon.
There are 18 therapy dogs and 14 trained handlers volunteering their services across the Trust, who visit wards, patients and staff every week.
The High Sheriff, Susie Dutton, met several of the dogs as they arrived for their regular visit. She spoke with volunteers about how the dogs help people feel more relaxed and more connected during difficult moments.
Susie, who has a golden retriever herself, named Ralphie, then visited the Stroke ward. Staff explained how much the dogs help patients who are rebuilding strength and confidence after a stroke.
Annie Pateman, Stroke Therapy Lead, said: “For many of our stroke patients, the therapy dogs bring calm and motivation at a time when they need it most. Their faces light up. It makes a huge difference to their recovery.”
The High Sheriff also met the Anaesthesia team, who described how therapy dogs help reduce a patient’s nerves before surgery. A few minutes with a friendly dog can lower stress and help people feel more at ease.
Tina Jullings, Founder and Chair of Trustees for Essex Therapy Dogs, said: “We are incredibly proud of our volunteers and therapy dogs. Sometimes a smile, a conversation, or a moment of comfort can make a real difference to someone’s day, and it is wonderful to see that recognised during Volunteers’ Week.”
The High Sheriff praised the volunteers and the hospital teams. Susie said: “It has been inspiring to see the care and kindness here today. The Essex Therapy Dogs bring joy and comfort in a very special way. The volunteers – both human and canine – who give their time are a real credit to the hospital and the people of Essex they help.”
