Animals Race Across the World to Belong Atherton

Animals Race Across the World to Belong Atherton

Swiss Valais blacknose sheep, Chinese Silkie chickens, and Pygmy goats have been spotted in Atherton as Belong customers and the community have been playing host for special meet-and-greet sessions with animals from across the globe.

Tiny African Scops, Eurasian Eagle, and Harris’s Hawk owls have also joined the fun at the Mealhouse Lane care village, with its older community petting their new companions, finding out all about them, and in some cases, taking on the role of looking after them. The special sessions were arranged by the village’s experience team as part of its vibrant activities programme which also invites the wider community to participate. Mobile Farm Cheshire, and Owl Adventures were called upon to facilitate the animal assisted therapy, with Belong Atherton's residents and tenants encouraged to try something new, forge fresh friendships, and enjoy a sense of camaraderie looking after their guests. In addition, it proved to support the wellbeing of those living with dementia, with animal therapy providing the opportunity to socialise without the need to engage in conversation, meaning those with little or no verbal communication can also participate. Catherine Appleby, Belong Atherton experience support worker, said: “What amazing visits we have had. Our residents, tenants and Experience Days customers have especially loved the animals prancing around their home, the birds flying freely, and being able to hold and have cuddles with the smaller animals.”

Pictured: Marlene Oldfield Belong Atherton
Picture 2: Paul Heaton Belong Atherton