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Our 2023 PAT Impact Award winners

As part of our 40th anniversary celebrations, earlier this year we launched our first ever PAT Impact Awards to recognise unsung heroes — volunteering teams who do incredible work, make a huge impact and change people’s lives for the better.

We were overwhelmed by the number of nominations we received, each one articulating the immense impact of our visits and the many PAT Teams who are much loved and appreciated in their local communities.

Four volunteers, and their PAT Pets, were recognised in a prize-giving ceremony at Goodwoof on 21 May. It was an incredible day and a fitting tribute to every one of our fantastic PAT Teams.

Wendy Jones and Lacee received the Award for the PAT Team who turned around a person’s fear of dogs. They changed the life of an eight-year-old boy who had sustained facial injuries after being attacked by a dog and had developed a dog phobia and PTSD.  “I’m so proud of my Lacee who has an ability to sense a person’s needs,” smiles Wendy. “Lacee was truly instrumental in helping a young boy with a debilitating dog phobia.”

Kieron Mackrill and Ella received the Award for the PAT Team who supported an individual/family though a difficult time. They visit the intensive care unit at Bradford Royal Infirmary where patients struggle with anxiety, depression and insomnia, and can also suffer with delirium and psychosis. “This is a dream come true,” says Kieron. “My dying sister said Ella was something very special and she has been proved right. We simply love our times in ICU. I will cherish the medal forever.”

Anne Fletcher and Barney received the Award for the PAT Team who changed the life of a schoolchild for the better. They visit a school in Fareham that helps pupils who struggle because of mental health complications, anxieties, worries, frustrations and bereavement. “Winning this award was very unexpected and an honour,” says Anne. “Barney loves his visits to school, helping the pupils talk about their feelings and bringing smiles to as many faces as possible.”

Ian Mobley and Indie received the Award for the PAT Team who helped a young person with mental health issues, in memory of Isobel Moseby. Ian and Indie are regular visitors to a psychiatric intensive care unit in Leeds and provide alternative therapeutic intervention, and also “a moment of joy, peace and escape from life’s challenges”. Ian was unable to attend Goodwoof, but said: “I was so surprised when I found out we’d been nominated and won the prize. To see the young people brighten up with Indie comes on the ward is reward enough. Knowing that by simply taking Indie in, and letting him be him, and the impact he has is the best feeling in the world.”

Our photo shows (from left) Clare Davis, Sean Moseby, James Middleton who accepted the award on behalf of Ian Mobley, Anne Fletcher, Wendy Jones and Kieron Mackrill.

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