Paws, treats and festive cheer

Festive cheer is being spread across Tameside and Glossop this Christmas thanks to a dedicated NHS team going the extra mile to brighten hospital stays during the holiday season.

The Quality and Patient Experience Team at Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust has been busy bringing smiles to patients, visitors, relatives and staff with therapy dogs, homemade treats, music and a programme of seasonal events. Now in its third year, the team’s festive efforts have earned them a reputation as unsung Christmas heroes, helping to make what can be a difficult time of year feel a little warmer and more human.

Earlier this year, the Trust launched its own Pets as Therapy (PAT) programme, led by team member and lifelong dog lover Heather Swirles. Since the first visit in June, a group of much-loved canine companions - Ivy, Pearl, Lori, Lulu Sugarpie, Skyler and Rumpole - have been visiting wards across the Trust.

The dogs have quickly become firm favourites, offering comfort, reassurance and gentle distraction to patients. For many, a quiet moment stroking a dog or sharing a smile has helped reduce anxiety and bring a sense of normality to their day.

Heather said: “Dogs never cease to amaze me; I have so many stories of the incredible impact PAT has had in just the first six months. I am incredibly lucky to have this role as part of my job, and I am so proud of each of the lovely PAT dogs that we have visit us at the hospital.”

Alongside the therapy dog visits, festive activities are being coordinated by Nicole Webb, quality and patient experience practitioner. Last Christmas, the team’s Santa Sleigh toured every inpatient area, delivering around 800 hand-decorated biscuits to patients and staff.

This year, the festive fun continues, with the team combining tasty treats from the Trust’s catering service with therapy dog appearances to help lift spirits and spread seasonal cheer across hospital wards.

The work of the team has also been recognised at a regional level. Dr Manisha Kumar, chief medical officer at NHS Greater Manchester, praised their dedication and creativity.

She said: “Tameside’s Quality and Patient Experience Team embody the compassion and creativity that make our NHS so special. Their work brings comfort when people need it most. They are true Christmas heroes, and we’re hugely grateful for the difference they make every single day and especially at Christmas.”

Heather Swirles with one of the therapy dogs