Care and Support Covid-19 Get Involved About Us Get in Touch Patient Referral Donate Interactive pets bring joy and comfort to people in the community Life-like robotic pets, that respond to motion, voice and touch, are helping to combat loneliness and isolation – thanks to an innovative scheme introduced by nurses at John Taylor Hospice. The hospice’s Personal Health Budget (PHB) and Social Care Team has purchased three interactive pets which are available on loan to provide comfort and companionship for patients in the community. Clinical Nurse Specialist Debra Gregory said: “Our team currently has two dogs and one cat. The pets can be thoroughly cleaned before going to their new home, meaning we’re able to offer them on loan so more people can enjoy them. “The pets react to the sound of your voice and respond to your touch, and the cat even rolls over for tummy rubs. This two-way interaction means people receiving palliative and end of life care can experience the joy of owning a pet without the commitment and responsibility. “The feedback we’re receiving about our new cuddly companions has been so positive. They’ve been going to stay with people living with dementia, and people experiencing social isolation and loneliness. One person that our team supported named her new companion ‘Lucky’ as she said she was ‘lucky to have him’ and she found spending time with the dog calming and comforting.” Clinical Nurse Specialist Debra Gregory Introduced in Birmingham in 2019, and pioneered by John Taylor Hospice, the PHB programme helps people at the end of their lives to have a more personalised experience of care – ensuring they have greater choice and are able to tailor their health and social care to their specific situation and needs. Debra added: “Our project has supported hundreds of people across Birmingham and Sutton Coldfield. This support has ranged from seeking help with cleaning and household chores, to providing beds and linen so people can die at home in comfort and with dignity surrounded by their loved ones. We’re committed to expanding this service so it can reach even more people, and ensure people at the end of their life have a voice, the ability to take control and make informed choices.” To read more about the work of the PHB and Social Care Team, please visit www.johntaylorhospice.org.uk/care-and-support Latest news Splodge teddy bears bring joy to our hospices FEATURED | NEWS Splodge Teddy Parties' generous donation of more than 40 bears has spread happiness throughout Birmingham St Mary's and John Taylor Hospices. Read More “The hospice really is a wonderful place, and all of the people who work here do such a tremendous job – I call them angels without wings.” CAMPAIGNS | LATEST NEWS Jane, one of our volunteers, tells us what makes her proud to be a part of the John Taylor Hospice family Read More “We were surrounded by love and we’ll never forget what they did for us.” CAMPAIGNS | CARE AND SUPPORT Touched by the support their family received, mother and daughter Lorna and Gaynor share how vital hospice care was there for them when they needed it most. Read More What our patients think “The care was second to none” “At such a heartbreaking and difficult time, the nurses and care assistants knew exactly what to do and to say – we’d have been lost without them. The care they provided for my beautiful wife was second to none and I’ll be forever grateful.” Roger Perks “Nothing is too much trouble” “I can’t thank hospice teams enough. From fitting grab rails in my house and ordering a reclining bed, reviewing of all my medication, providing me with new medical equipment and even helping to organise domestic help for us at home – they’ve covered everything but are always willing to do even more.” Jackie Bannister “I don’t know where I’d be without them” “The support I get is truly is invaluable and I honestly don’t know where I’d be without them. I’m able to talk openly about my illness and ask for advice and support if I need it. I’ve made some incredible friends and the hospice is a very special place full of laughter and kindness. “ Liz Warren View all quotes Donate Sign up to the John Taylor Hospice newsletter to keep informed about the work we do. Sign up enquiries@johntaylorhospice.org.uk 0121 465 2000 Sitemap Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions Feedback © 2020 John Taylor Hospice 76 Grange Road, Erdington, Birmingham, B24 0DF.Charity number 1156964. Website by stickee Get Involved and Support John Taylor Hospice We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of these cookies. Read More Cookie settings Accept