NB – the client’s name has been changed to protect their identity
In August 2024, Our Special Friends (OSF) received a referral from the Dementia Intensive Support Team (DIST) in West Suffolk. ‘Helen’ had a diagnosis of dementia and lived alone in Long Melford. Her daughter lived in London and visited as often as she could, but she was worried about her mum and how rapidly her dementia was developing.
During an initial phone call with Chloe, OSF’s Animal Companionship Coordinator (ACC), Helen’s daughter explained that when her mum was first diagnosed with dementia a year ago, she was still able to drive and look after herself independently. However, Helen’s health had deteriorated, and a carer was now visiting every day to support Helen with daily tasks. Helen’s daughter told OSF that she had taken a break from work in London to look after her mum and establish a local support network for her. So far Helen was receiving support from DIST, her private carers, and a dementia support group she attended weekly. Her daughter felt that weekly visits from a volunteer and their dog would mean Helen had enough regular support for the daughter to be able to return to work in London.
Two days after receiving the referral, Chloe visited Helen in her home to conduct an assessment. Helen spoke fondly of the dogs she had owned throughout her life and how, unfortunately, she was unable to care for one now. She also talked about her friend’s dog who she had a great bond with and recalled the intense grief she felt, and still feels, when the dog passed away. After living her whole life with dogs by her side, Helen now had no animal companionship and missed this deeply. It was clear that she would benefit greatly from visits with a volunteer and their dog.
A local volunteer, Suzy, and her Cocker Spaniel, Molly, was identified as suitable, and a Match Meeting took place four weeks after the initial assessment. Helen’s daughter joined her mum for Suzy and Molly’s first visit. Helen was thrilled to have a dog in her home, and, with the help of treats and tickles, a bond quickly began to grow between her and Molly. It wasn’t long before Molly was on the sofa between Helen and Suzy, sitting comfortably and receiving lots of love from Helen. Suzy showed Helen some tricks that Molly knew, and she thoroughly enjoyed trying them out and giving Molly treats afterwards. By the end of the first visit Suzy and Molly had become fast friends with Helen. Helen’s daughter told OSF “mum really enjoyed meeting Molly last week and her eyes lit up every time we mentioned her since.”
Suzy and Molly continue to visit Helen every Friday. They have started to venture out on walks around Long Melford. Helen’s daughter is also reassured that her mum has lots of support in place now she has returned to London to work. Speaking to Suzy, Helen’s daughter said “I know you see it from her reaction to Molly, but she talks in the week so much about her that it’s clear how much benefit you’re giving. I know you hear it a lot, but thank you again for giving your time – it’s incredibly appreciated!”
As a result of her volunteering experience, Suzy decided she wanted a change of career and has since applied for work as a carer, a role in which OSF is sure she will be a great success.
