Friends with fur and scales

Angela and Benjamin love creatures of all shapes and sizes, so they were thrilled when their Lifestyle Assistant, Shannan Trimble, brought in her pets as an early celebration of ‘bring your pet to work day.’ Bindi, the pug, had visited the Crestmead Supported Accommodation residents before, but meeting her slithery reptilian siblings was a new (and brave) experience.

Every day is unique at Afford’s Supported Accommodation and residents will always have endless opportunities to have new and exciting experiences.

“Angela was so excited to have puppy time with Bindi and also took the opportunity to face her fears and pat both the lizard and snake. She saw Benjamin having a great time patting the reptiles and was motivated to join in,” said Lifestyle Assistant, Shannan Trimble.

The idea came from Shannan bonding with Angela and Benjamin over animals on one of her very first days at the home.

“When I first told them I had reptiles, they were amazed. Benjamin asks me every shift how my reptiles are and Angela always asks about Bindi, so I knew it would be great to bring them in,” Shannan continued.

Engaging with large, small, soft or slithering pets can improve social interaction, reduce stress and anxiety, and increase motivation and learning in people of all ages and abilities.

“It’s a great way for the clients to experience different animals. Being able to watch and see their faces light up in excitement made me as a staff member so happy and proud,” said Shannan.

It was a day filled with many paws-itive experiences that the residents won’t be fur-getting anytime soon.

When you join Afford Supported Accommodation, it is your home. It is a place where you can find support to make your own choices and do the things that make you happy.