Hope’s Therapy Dogs, a charity dedicated to helping children with emotional and mental health issues, has recently been awarded The Animal Award at the 2024 BBC Merseyside Make A Difference Awards. The prestigious event, held at The Titanic Hotel in Liverpool, recognized the outstanding work of the organization in providing emotional support to children in the Warrington and Widnes areas.
Founded by Alison Colley in memory of her daughter, Hope, who tragically passed away from a brain tumour in 2018, Hope’s Therapy Dogs has made a significant impact on the lives of children in the community. The charity’s four therapy dogs, along with one puppy in training, visit 14 schools each week to offer comfort and companionship to 70 to 90 children. These therapy dogs have become beloved members of the schools they visit, playing a vital role in helping children navigate through their emotional struggles.
The Make a Difference Awards aim to acknowledge individuals and organizations that enhance the lives of others, with a specific focus on animals that improve the quality of life for individuals or communities. The Animal Award, which Hope’s Therapy Dogs received, recognizes the important role that animals play in promoting emotional well-being and companionship.
Alison Colley expressed her gratitude for receiving the award, stating, “Our mission is to support children and young people through their emotional and mental health journey using Animal Assisted Intervention. We are incredibly proud to receive this award, as it recognizes the countless children we have helped and supported in Hope’s memory.”
Catherine Whitlow, the manager of Hope’s Therapy Dogs, emphasized the importance of ethical treatment and well-being of the therapy dogs. She stated, “Our dogs are not just our colleagues; they are family. Their welfare is of paramount importance, and we ensure they are treated ethically and with the utmost care in their therapy dog roles.”
The impact of the therapy dogs on the children and young people they work with is profound. The dogs’ calming presence and unconditional love provide a unique form of comfort and companionship that resonates deeply with the individuals they serve. By helping children through their darkest moments, the therapy dogs offer hope and support in times of need.
The award was judged by Andre Portasio, the husband of the late Paul O’Grady, adding an extra layer of warmth and credibility to the occasion. Ms. Colley expressed her gratitude for his kind words and support, highlighting the importance of continuing to update him on the progress of Hope’s Therapy Dogs.
In addition to celebrating the achievements of Hope’s Therapy Dogs, the award also sheds light on the crucial need for mental health support for children in today’s society. The charity’s dedication to improving the emotional well-being of children is commendable, and their impact on the community is truly remarkable.
As Hope’s Therapy Dogs continues to make a difference in the lives of children, they have also launched a sister charity, Hope’s Heart, on September 14. This new initiative further demonstrates their commitment to supporting children and young people through their emotional and mental health journey.
For more information about Hope’s Therapy Dogs and Hope’s Heart, visit their websites to learn more about the incredible work they are doing in the community.