PETS AS THERAPY AND SOCIAL PRESCRIBING IN RUGBY

The challenge

After the Covid-19 pandemic, many people in Rugby were experiencing loneliness, isolation, and low mood, and GPs were seeing more patients whose main challenges were social rather than medical. These included feeling alone, struggling with money or housing, coping with bereavement, or lacking confidence to leave the house.

Some existing support groups in the local community had age limits or specific entry criteria, which meant many people felt they did not fit in anywhere. Other people found traditional 121 appointments with health or care professionals or group activities intimidating and needed support in a calmer, more relaxed environment. There was a clear need for an inclusive space where people of all ages could feel welcome and supported without pressure.

What we did

As part of the social prescribing work in Rugby Primary Care Network (PCN), a monthly Pets as Therapy group was developed in partnership with Health Exchange – an organisation that helps local communities make positive changes to their lifestyles. 

The group is open to everyone, from mothers and young children to people in their 90s and over and takes place in a community venue.

Each session offers a welcoming environment where people can enjoy a cup of tea, spend time with trained therapy dogs from the Pets as Therapy charity, and chat with others if they wish. There are no activities people have to take part in, and no expectations placed on attendees. People are free to sit quietly, talk, or simply enjoy being around the dogs.

Social Prescribing Link Workers attend every session, allowing people to get to know them informally and at their own pace. This relaxed setting helps break down barriers and makes it easier for people to talk about what is really going on in their lives when they feel ready. Support offered to individuals is also personalised and focused on what matters most to them.

From the group, people can be supported with a wide range of non-medical issues, including money worries, debt, housing problems, food support, emotional wellbeing, bereavement, and mental health services. Local organisations and charities are also invited to attend some sessions, so people can learn about support services available in their area without feeling overwhelmed or pressured.

The outcomes

The group started with just one person attending and has grown through GP referrals from Rugby PCN’s 12 GP practices, social media promotion, and word of mouth. At busy sessions, up to 48 people now attend.

Emma Bond, Primary Care Network Social Prescriber at Clifton Road Surgery, said:

“Many people that have attended the group have said it helps them feel less lonely and more connected to their community. 

“Attendees build confidence, form friendships, and begin to feel comfortable in a social setting again through the group and some people who were initially very isolated now arrive early to help set up the group, volunteer regularly, and support others.

“The group has also supported couples, including people living with dementia, by providing a calm and inclusive space where everyone can take part in their own way. 

“People often feel able to open up about wider challenges in their lives, allowing support to be offered at the right time.”

Sam Brack, Community Social Prescriber in Rugby, Health Exchange, added:

“My role is to organise and coordinate the group and develop relationships with patients to remind them that it is taking place each month. 

“As well as bringing people together, service provides and charities including mental health charities Mind and Rethink, the Citizens Advice Bureau and Healthwatch have also attended to signpost patients to further support.

“Today, it largely runs itself with help from volunteers and the wider community. And, it’s been great to see how it has become a trusted space where people feel listened to, valued and supported, showing how person-centred social prescribing can make a real difference to people’s lives.”