Shelter lends a "helping paw" to fight elderly loneliness

Sunday 20 June 2021

The Animal Shelter's fluffy residents are lending a helping paw to a new initiative to combat loneliness among older islanders and promote mental health.

The JSPCA's first 'Pat & Chat' session will take place on Monday 12 July between 14:30 and 16:00 at the shelter.

Sponsored by the St. Helier Youth and Community trust, the sessions aim to help older people in the community and to combat loneliness by giving islanders the opportunity to meet others and find out more about the shelter's services.

"We are trying to appeal to those people who perhaps have no family members and who like animals and for whatever reason can’t have them," the team said.

"We are aiming to have monthly sessions where people can come, have a cup of tea and a cake, chat to likeminded people and enjoy spending some time with some of the animals in our care," the team said.

"We are hoping that it will be a great opportunity for people to get out the house and enjoy some company."

The team explained they can't guarantee which animals will be joining the sessions as it will all depend on what residents are currently at the shelter and whether they have any behaviour issues.

Those wishing to attend are invited to contact Claire either by email at claire@jspca.org.je or over the phone 724331.