On the inpatient wards, therapeutic activities are more than something to pass the time — they’re a lifeline. For many people staying with us, being away from home can feel disorienting, unsettling, and at times overwhelming.
That’s why meaningful activity is woven into the very heart of recovery. It brings structure, a sense of normalcy, and the simple but powerful reminder that life can still hold joy, routine and connection.
Engaging in purposeful activities does far more than reduce boredom. It helps rebuild confidence. It opens the door to learning new skills. It boosts wellbeing, lifts mood, encourages social interaction, and supports people in reconnecting with the world beyond their immediate challenges. Every small moment of achievement becomes a step forward.
Recently, our Activity Coordinator, Sarah, introduced something new (with four paws and a wagging tail). Each week, Sarah escorts a small group of service users to local dog rescue charity — Immingham Dogs Home — a warm, bustling place filled with hopeful eyes and twitching noses.
Thanks to her work, they now have a standing weekly slot to meet the dogs and help walk them.
The idea was simple: offer service users a therapeutic activity that inspires connection and nurtures wellbeing. The result? An instant hit!
Spending time with dogs has been shown to lower stress levels, reduce anxiety, and help regulate mood. Their presence encourages the release of “feel good” hormones like oxytocin and serotonin. They help reduce blood pressure, promote relaxation, and even boost motivation to be active — making them beneficial not just for mental health, but physical health too.
For people working through difficult emotions or recovering from a period of crisis, this can make an enormous difference.
For many, the time with the dogs quickly became the highlight of their week. Service users who regularly attend the activity said:
“You can sometimes feel restricted on the ward, so it’s great to get outside. The dogs are very cute, and I feel very privileged to attend. I am very grateful to Sarah for setting this up”.
“I really look forward to going and helping at the rescue. It’s enjoyable and the staff are lovely.”
The fresh air, the movement, the routine — all of it works together to restore a sense of purpose and pride.
Each week brings new dogs, new conversations, and new progress. Many leave each visit lighter, more centred, and with a renewed sense of hope.
Sarah has watched the transformation with joy. What started as an idea has grown into a meaningful, therapeutic experience.
The dog walking sessions are now a firm favourite on the activities schedule — and as the weeks go by, it’s clear they are making a real impact.
The staff at the dogs home have given nothing but positive feedback and look forward to the group attending each week.
Navigo staff have also been inspired to support the rescue beyond the weekly visits, raising funds at Christmas to help purchase essential items and donating old towels, blankets, food and treats to make life a little more comfortable for the dogs while they wait for their forever homes.
For our service users, the dogs provide not only companionship, but the warmth of connection, the steadiness of routine, and the simple happiness that comes from being met with a wagging tail.
It’s a reminder that healing isn’t only found in clinical interventions — but also in small moments of joy, connection, care, and sometimes… in a furry friend who just wants a walk!