Staff Festival 2018 charity vote winner
Pets As Therapy (PAT) has won the vote to be this year's official Staff Festival charity.
Rachel Robinson, a member of the Engineering department who volunteers with PAT, nominated the charity.
She said: “The simple pleasure of stroking a dog or just being sat round a dog in the PAT sessions has brought a much-needed break from the stress and strains of our busy working lives.
"It has brought companionship to those who can no longer have a pet, who are feeling lonely or upset; it has helped those dealing with difficult life balances and, importantly, helped people overcome their fear or nervousness of dogs.
"I love volunteering with my dog, Pepper. It brings a great wealth of wellbeing to everyone, including the volunteers. And, as research has shown, it reduces our stress levels and increases our productivity. It just simply makes us feel that much better.”
Plans are in full swing for this year’s exciting instalment of the hugely popular Staff Festival.
A Festival of Making will be a packed programme, featuring workshops, refreshments, entertainment and competitions suitable for all ages.
All University staff, family and friends are invited to join us on campus on Friday 6 July 2018 for an enjoyable afternoon of activities, full details of which will be announced nearer the date.