AN animal charity in Purbeck that strives to improve wellbeing has received significant financial support from a care home provider.

Purbeck Animal Assisted Learning Services (PAALS) provides an inclusive environment where people of all ages can thrive through the healing power of nature and animals with unique, hands-on experiences available to visitors.

And its mission has received a boost after not-for-profit charity Care South recently donated £900 to support the services they offer.

Residents from Dorset House care home in Hamworthy and other homes run by Care South, have taken trips out to visit the therapy farm where they have been able to meet a range of horses, goats, sheep and pigs.

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Care South’s Community Fund donation was presented to Cheryl Dennett, who runs PAALS by Simon Bird, CEO of Care South and Charlotte Mitchell, lifestyle and activities lead at Care South, alongside residents and the team at Dorset House care home.

Cheryl said: “We are so grateful to Care South for this generous donation. Our work is all about improving wellbeing through meaningful connections with animals and nature.

“It is wonderful to see the way the residents’ faces light up as soon as they see the animals and then they talk about how relaxed they feel as they stroke and brush our horses. The support from Care South helps us continue to offer these experiences to people of all ages and abilities.”

Simon Bird, CEO of Care South, said: “We are delighted to support Cheryl and the team at PAALS through our community fund.

“Our residents have had wonderful experiences at the farm, and it is clear to see the joy and comfort that interaction with animals brings them.

“At Care South, we are keen to help residents engage with their local community, and as many of them love animals, this is a perfect activity for them to enjoy.”