News & Community

A collection of newspaper headers with the title ‘The Rotherwood Times’ 

Therapy Pets Donated to Lynhales Hall


Posted: 25-04-2023

Healthcare workers gather for a group photo holding donated robotic cats and dogs

Lynhales Hall Nursing Home, in Lyonshall, Herefordshire, was blown away by the generosity of ‘Friends of Herefordshire Alzheimer’s & Dementia Sufferers ‘(FHADS), who donated eight robotic cats and dogs to the home.

The charity was passionately started in 2010 by three trustees; Christopher Cole, Wayne Barton and Paul Bannister to relieve people living with Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, as well as their families and carers in the county of Herefordshire. The trio organise an annual two-day golf fundraising event hosted by one of three participating Herefordshire golf courses, and since its inception, has raised significant amounts of money for the local Dementia community, including funding the ‘Dementia Matters’ bus.  
 
Surrounded by members of staff, the animals were presented to a well-known and respected veteran president of Bromyard Cricket Club, Norman Whittall, who resides at Lynhales Hall, and will bring joy to many of the residents living at the specialist Dementia home. 
 
We’re all aware of the positive impact that furry friends can have on our moods, providing companionship and bringing us comfort and happiness. However, it’s not always practical for people to look after real-life pets – especially those who are elderly or living with Dementia.
 
Nick Brown, the Home Manager at Lynhales Hall, said:
“It was an honour to receive such a kind donation and we can’t thank FHADS enough. The robot pets are very lifelike – they have stomachs that move up and down to mimic breathing and fur that is soft to touch. This creates a calming effect, helping to reduce anxiety and stress – two symptoms which are commonly associated with Dementia.”  
 
Wayne Barton, a trustee from Friends of Herefordshire Alzheimer’s & Dementia Sufferers (FHADS), said:
"It gives us great pleasure to make a difference to the lives of people living with Dementia and our aim is to raise as much money as they can during our next fundraiser in September, please do get in touch If you can support in any way" 
 
Operated by Rotherwood Healthcare, Lynhales Hall provides award-winning Nursing and Dementia Care for complex needs. To find out more, call 01544 340238, or visit www.lynhaleshall.care.