Three times a week, something truly special happens at St Andrew’s.
Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, Honey — a gentle and much‑loved dog — arrives with her owner, Colin, to visit our residents and staff. Her presence brings an immediate sense of calm and happiness, creating moments of connection that are felt across our community. For many of our residents living with dementia, Honey offers something deeply meaningful. A soft pat, a wagging tail or simply sitting together can spark smiles, conversation and a sense of familiarity.
These small moments often have a powerful impact, helping residents feel relaxed, engaged and emotionally connected. There is strong research supporting what we see every day. Studies published in journals such as The International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry and Aging & Mental Health show that animal‑assisted interactions can reduce anxiety and agitation, improve mood, and encourage social interaction for people living with dementia.
Organisations including Dementia Australia also recognise the important role animals can play in supporting emotional wellbeing and reducing feelings of isolation in residential care settings. Honey brings this research to life. Her gentle nature and unconditional companionship enrich the lives of our residents and brighten the days of our staff. She reminds us that care is not only about clinical support, but also about warmth, presence and meaningful connection.We are incredibly grateful to Colin for his ongoing commitment and generosity in volunteering his time and sharing Honey with our community. Together, they make a meaningful difference, one visit at a time.
Interested in Volunteering?
Volunteers play a vital role in creating a warm, connected and vibrant community for our residents. Whether you can offer companionship, share a skill, support activities — or even bring along a friendly four‑legged companion — we would love to hear from you.To learn more about volunteering opportunities, please contact our team or visit our Volunteering page. Together, we can create moments of joy that truly matter.
