We’re delighted to announce that high-profile vet, broadcaster and animal welfare advocate Dr Marc Abraham OBE has become our Patron. He will help raise awareness of our work to deliver Animal Companionship Support Services (ACSS) to vulnerable individuals across West Suffolk and will support us in encouraging organisations in other regions of the UK to adopt our model for the delivery of these services.
We’re also proud the announce the appointment of two new Trustees.
- Rebecca Stephens, Senior Lecturer in Social Work and a pioneer of ‘Veterinary Social Work’ – which combines principles of social work, mental health and animal care to support individuals and families
- Dr Rebekah Sullivan MRCVS, a practicing vet with a Master’s in One Health – an approach that recognises that the health of people is closely connected to the health of animals and our shared environment.
Marc Abraham says: “I’m proud to be a patron of OSF, a fantastic and dedicated organisation that I’ve admired for years. The human-animal bond offers many health benefits; from improving heart health to alleviating depression and loneliness. It can also increase wellbeing and support child health and development – especially for those with special educational needs and disabilities. I’m looking forward to working with OSF to promote the power and value of the human-animal bond. ”
Bin Johnston says: “Our goal is to ensure that individuals experiencing vulnerability can continue to receive the evidence-based comfort and joy of animal companionship, even in difficult circumstances. As the UK’s only charity dedicated to developing and providing a holistic range of ACSS, we’re eager to share our experiences and help other organisations to adopt the innovative community support roles we’ve pioneered, alongside campaigning for a pet-inclusive society.
“Marc has a deep commitment to animal welfare and a passion for the human-companion animal bond. His knowledge, experience and contacts will be invaluable in helping us to deliver on our ambitious plans.”
She adds: “We’re also thrilled to welcome Rebecca and Rebekah to our board of trustees. Their skills, expertise and enthusiasm are a perfect fit and we look forward to working with them to enhance the lives of people and animals at risk through the power of animal companionship support services in the months ahead.”
